UK Gambling Commission
What is the UK Gambling Commission?
The UK Gambling Commission was created and empowered under the Gambling Act of 2005 to regulate the UK gambling industry, with a particular focus on online gaming. It is often held up as a prime example of gambling regulator best practice, and used as a benchmark for comparing regulatory bodies in other countries and states.
What Does the UK Gambling Commission Do?
- Ensure gambling in the UK is crime-free.
- Ensure gambling in the UK is fair and open.
- Ensure children and vulnerable people are protected from gambling in the UK.
What Types of Licenses Does the UK Gambling Commission Offer?
Rather than offering a single licence to operators covering all online gaming activities, the UK Gambling Commission offers remote operating licences for each type of activity that an online operator may want to run, including:
- Betting
- Bingo
- Casino Games
- Gaming Machines
- Gaming Software
- Lotteries
In addition to the above activity-specific licences, most significant online gaming operators will also require remote Personal Management Licences (PML) for their senior staff members. This means that anyone who is in charge of important business areas such as financial budgeting, overall strategy, regulatory compliance and IT provision and security must come under scrutiny and gain approval for a PML before being allowed to legally make any operational decisions.
History of the UK Gambling Commission
The UK Gambling Commission was set up to regulate the growing online gambling industry, replacing the previous Gaming Board for Great Britain. In 2013, the National Lottery Commission was also merged with the UK Gambling Commission. The following year, it continued to act in the British consumer’s best interests under the 2014 Gambling (Licensing and Advertising) Act.
As the name of this act suggests, it was designed to tighten up practices around gambling advertising targeted at UK citizens. The law now ensures that all gambling operators that provide facilities for remote gambling (or advertise to consumers in Britain) must obtain a remote operating licence from the UK Gambling Commission. This means that even operators which are based abroad must still obtain the proper licence if they wish to serve (or advertise to) customers in the UK. This covers all forms of advertising, including on television, via sponsorship or through physical installations.
Another significant change was brought about by the Point of Consumption Tax, which entered into UK legislation in December 2014. Whereas previously off-shore operators were charged tax at the 'point of supply' (i.e. based on the territory where their operations were located), they are now taxed at the 'point of consumption' (i.e. in the UK) at a flat rate of 15% on gross profits.
Can You Trust the UK Gambling Commission?
Yes, the UK Gambling Commission is considered one of the most diligent gaming authorities in the world, and has several key areas of focus, including:
- Protection of Player Funds | Ensuring that licence holders keep customer funds segregated from business/operating funds.
- Player Identification | Ensuring that licence holders put steps in place to verify the age of online players.
- Player Protection | Ensuring that licence holders are aware of (and comply with) measures for protecting players with problematic gambling behaviour.
- Fair Gambling | Ensuring that licence holders only use software (including games and proprietary OS) supplied by licensed software providers.
- Honest Marketing | Ensuring that licence holders do not offer misleading promotions or advertisements.
- Cash Handling | Ensuring that licence holders take action to prevent money laundering and only utilise safe and legal payment technology.
- Customer Service | Ensuring that licence holders have systems in place to log customer complaints and resolve issues.
Online gambling operators must comply with the rules set down by the Gambling Commission (and maintain honest and transparent communications), or else risk having their licence revoked and potentially facing investigation or prosecution.
Top Online Casinos Licensed by the UK Gambling Commission
| UK Licensed Online Casino | Bonus Offered at Online Casino | Alternative Licenses Held |
|---|---|---|
| William Hill | £/€/$10 No Deposit Bonus | Gibraltar |
| Betfair | 100% up to £/€/$100 | Gibraltar |
| 888casino | £/€/$88 Free + 100% up to £/€/$100 | Gibraltar |
| Ladbrokes | 400% up to £/€/$400 | Malta |
| Coral Casino | 150% up to £/€/$300 | Gibraltar |
| Winner Casino | £/€/$30 Free + 200% up to £/€/$300 | Antigua |
| Casino British | 100% up to £/€/$200 | Malta |
The UK Gambling Commission currently licenses over 1000 companies for remote gaming, including operators such as 888, Betfair, William Hill and Ladbrokes. It also lists over 200 gaming development firms as having an active gambling software licence, including industry experts such as NextGen and OpenBet. Although it is broadly well-regarded as an institution, the UK Gambling Commission was chastised in 2014 for its alleged lack of action and advice it provided to the government in relation to Fixed Odd Betting Terminals (FOBT).
Some commentators had recommended stricter controls on the terminals, specifically either removing them from the high street or drastically reducing maximum stakes to bring them in line with other types of gambling machine. However, the Commission was criticised for recommending no immediate action, despite its vocal advocacy of taking "the precautionary approach" when it comes to risk.
Despite this incident, the Gambling Commission clearly prioritises player safety above all, and is currently reviewing a process whereby vulnerable players could exclude themselves from all casinos based in the UK (or holding a UK licence) at once, rather than having to self-exclude with each individual operator – this looks to be the next big legislative change on the horizon for the regulatory body.
Recommended UK Gambling Commission Licensed Casinos
Affiliate Disclosure:
At Gambling.com, we want to ensure that players are matched with the right casino and sportsbook offers for them. For this reason, some of the recommended site links are affiliate links. This means that if you visit a website through our link and make a deposit, Gambling.com will receive a commission payment at no extra cost to you.
At Gambling.com, we want to ensure that players are matched with the right casino and sportsbook offers for them. For this reason, some of the recommended site links are affiliate links.
More
-
1
Established 202218+. T&C ApplyStylish Intergalactic ThemeSecond, Third & Fourth Deposit BonusesWeekly Reload Bonusesnot requiredBonus Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
Bonus Wagering
The number of times you have to play through your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
50xPayout Time
The average withdrawal processing time
2-5 DaysCasino Games
The total number of casino games available
1500Jackpot Slots
The number of jackpot slot games available
180Live Casino Games
The number of live casino games available
80WinAWin offer a 'cosmic' online casino experience, with a VIP scheme that allows you to collect rewards as you progress on an intergalactic journey. They also offer two reload bonuses every week to boost your online casino bankroll. -
2
Established 202118+. T&C ApplyVibrant Music Themed Casino Site25% Live Casino Cashback InsuranceOver 150 Live Dealer Tablesnot requiredBonus Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
Bonus Wagering
The number of times you have to play through your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
x35Payout Time
The average withdrawal processing time
1-3 DaysCasino Games
The total number of casino games available
5362Jackpot Slots
The number of jackpot slot games available
224Live Casino Games
The number of live casino games available
162Music fans will enjoy the unique theme at Neon54 Casino, where players can choose an avatar reminiscent of a familiar artist. When signing up choose from MariDona, Kriss, SpoonDog, CraftPunk or David Bowle to receive a unique bonus for that character.
-
3
Established 201418+. T&C's apply.Traditional Irish-Themed Casino SitePlay Live Games Streamed from Real CasinosRegular Prize Draws & Promotionsnot requiredBonus Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
Bonus Wagering
The number of times you have to play through your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
35xPayout Time
The average withdrawal processing time
1-2 DaysCasino Games
The total number of casino games available
2670Jackpot Slots
The number of jackpot slot games available
42Live Casino Games
The number of live casino games available
104Dublin Bet Casino offers a distinctive Irish flavour to online casino and sports betting and boasts an impressive array of promotions, including raffles, cash drops and 'SuperPoints' that can be used to claim free spins and cash bonuses.
-
4
Established 202218+ T&C'S ApplySultry Tropical Themed Online CasinoDaily & Weekly Cash Prize DropsLive Chat Support Available 24/7not requiredBonus Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
Bonus Wagering
The number of times you have to play through your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
40xPayout Time
The average withdrawal processing time
2-5 DaysCasino Games
The total number of casino games available
3000Jackpot Slots
The number of jackpot slot games available
5Live Casino Games
The number of live casino games available
104PalmSlots is a dual casino and sportsbook platform with an extensive selection of game categories for Irish players, plus regular reload bonuses, cashback offers and monthly prize drops.
-
5
Established 202118+. T&C ApplySimple & Elegant User InterfaceLive Chat Support Available 24/7Over 50 Jackpot Slot Gamesnot requiredBonus Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
Bonus Wagering
The number of times you have to play through your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
40xPayout Time
The average withdrawal processing time
1-2 DaysCasino Games
The total number of casino games available
2794Jackpot Slots
The number of jackpot slot games available
49Live Casino Games
The number of live casino games available
45FireVegas Casino offers players a stripped-back and easy to use online casino experience, plus a generous online casino Ireland bonus split over your first three deposits.
-
6
Established 200118+. T&C ApplyOnline Casino of Macau Sporting Club (Cork)8 Level VIP Loyalty Program & CashbackDual Casino & Sportsbook Platformnot requiredBonus Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
Bonus Wagering
The number of times you have to play through your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
35xPayout Time
The average withdrawal processing time
2-5 DaysCasino Games
The total number of casino games available
1500Jackpot Slots
The number of jackpot slot games available
400Live Casino Games
The number of live casino games available
300Macau Casino is otherwise known as the MSC Casino - the online casino of the Macau Sporting Club in Cork (where you can top up your online account with cash).
-
7
Established 201718+. T&C ApplyRegular Cashback Bonuses & Prize DrawsLive Chat Support Available 24/7Loyalty Program with First 500 Points Freenot requiredBonus Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
Bonus Wagering
The number of times you have to play through your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
35xPayout Time
The average withdrawal processing time
1-2 DaysCasino Games
The total number of casino games available
1354Jackpot Slots
The number of jackpot slot games available
70Live Casino Games
The number of live casino games available
19Casimba Casino has been a 'roaring' success since launching in 2017. The site is fully optimised for mobile and offers players a slick and smooth user experience, plus plenty of promotions.
-
8
Established 202118+. New customers only. Min deposit €15. Wagering req. 30x. General T&C's apply.Dual Casino and Sportsbook PlatformClaim Up to 1000 Free Spins Every MonthCrypto-Friendly Online Casinonot requiredBonus Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
Bonus Wagering
The number of times you have to play through your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
30xPayout Time
The average withdrawal processing time
1-2 DaysCasino Games
The total number of casino games available
2904Jackpot Slots
The number of jackpot slot games available
23Live Casino Games
The number of live casino games available
171Club Riches is a dual Irish casino and sportsbook platform that offers players regular promotions such as the chance of spinning the 'Club Riches Wheel' every day to win a variety of prizes, including free spins and cash bonuses.
-
9
Established 202118+. T&Cs Apply. Play Responsibly.First, Second & Third Deposit BonusesRealtime Gamification & Loyalty SuiteUp to 25% Daily Cashback on Lossesnot requiredBonus Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
Bonus Wagering
The number of times you have to play through your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
35xPayout Time
The average withdrawal processing time
3-5 DaysCasino Games
The total number of casino games available
4809Jackpot Slots
The number of jackpot slot games available
23Live Casino Games
The number of live casino games available
26NineCasino promote themselves as 'a next-generation high-tech casino' and Irish players can complete tasks, gain levels and spend points in their store.
-
10
Established 201718+. T&C ApplyExclusive 'High End Gaming' Theme'SpinBooster' Slots Levelling Up SystemWeekly Tournaments & Cash Dropsnot requiredBonus Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
Bonus Wagering
The number of times you have to play through your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
40xPayout Time
The average withdrawal processing time
1-5 DaysCasino Games
The total number of casino games available
750Jackpot Slots
The number of jackpot slot games available
4Live Casino Games
The number of live casino games available
12HighRoller Casino aims to replicate the exclusive atmosphere of the private rooms in the top Las Vegas and Macau casinos, but everyone is welcome - not just you high rollers.
-
11
Established 2021+18. Ts&Cs Apply. please play responsiblyFun Canine Themed CasinoGame of the Week Free Spins'Doggo's Rewards' Programnot requiredBonus Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
Bonus Wagering
The number of times you have to play through your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
35xPayout Time
The average withdrawal processing time
1-6 DaysCasino Games
The total number of casino games available
1496Jackpot Slots
The number of jackpot slot games available
32Live Casino Games
The number of live casino games available
212Doggo Casino is a relatively new casino site in Ireland, but already one of the best for slots fans. Alongside a host of other games, they have 70 of the popular Megaways slots and reward regular players with reload bonuses, which includes free spins.
-
12
Established 202118+. T&C ApplyExchange Loyalty iCoins for BonusesRegular Tournaments & Reload Bonuses10% Weekly Cashback Insurancenot requiredBonus Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
Bonus Wagering
The number of times you have to play through your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
35xPayout Time
The average withdrawal processing time
1-2 DaysCasino Games
The total number of casino games available
7000Jackpot Slots
The number of jackpot slot games available
600Live Casino Games
The number of live casino games available
250iWild Casino has a bright 'court jester' theme and they entertain Irish players with a huge variety of traditional and new casino games, including an impressive selection of live casino tables.
-
13
Established 202018+. T&C ApplyUnique 'Welcombo' Mix & Match BonusDaily Promotions CalendarCollect Points to Spend in Superstar Shopnot requiredBonus Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
Bonus Wagering
The number of times you have to play through your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
30xPayout Time
The average withdrawal processing time
2-5 DaysCasino Games
The total number of casino games available
2566Jackpot Slots
The number of jackpot slot games available
300Live Casino Games
The number of live casino games available
59Whamoo Casino offers a fresh online casino Ireland experience, starting with a unique sign-up bonus which allows you to select a deposit bonus or free spins, or somewhere in the middle.
-
14
Established 201718+. T&C ApplyDaily Bonuses & PromotionsWeekly 'Twin Races' Slots Tournaments$10 Live Blackjack Bonus When You Hit 21not requiredBonus Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
Bonus Wagering
The number of times you have to play through your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
45xPayout Time
The average withdrawal processing time
2 - 6 DaysCasino Games
The total number of casino games available
8628Jackpot Slots
The number of jackpot slot games available
25Live Casino Games
The number of live casino games available
73Twin Casino is a clean and user-friendly online casino platform with a variety of promotions for Irish players, including slots and live casino tournament prize pools, plus random prize drops.
-
15
Established 1946New customers, Opt in and Wager €10 and get €100 in bonuses, 35x wagering on bonus funds. No wagering on free spins. Bonuses expire in 7 days. T&Cs Apply. 18+ | gamblingcare.ie | Please gamble responsiblyDual Casino & Sportsbook PlatformExclusive Branded Megaways SlotsLive Chat Support Available 24/7not requiredBonus Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
Bonus Wagering
The number of times you have to play through your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
35xPayout Time
The average withdrawal processing time
1-3 DaysCasino Games
The total number of casino games available
1245Jackpot Slots
The number of jackpot slot games available
53Live Casino Games
The number of live casino games available
35BetVictor were one of the pioneers of the online gambling industry and their online casino, launched in the UK back in 2000, is fully licensed in Ireland.
-
16
Established 201818+. T&C ApplySleek & Easy to Navigate WebsiteRegular Draws with Luxury PrizesExchange Loyalty 'Barz' for Bonus Fundsnot requiredBonus Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
Bonus Wagering
The number of times you have to play through your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
40xPayout Time
The average withdrawal processing time
1-3 DaysCasino Games
The total number of casino games available
3281Jackpot Slots
The number of jackpot slot games available
23Live Casino Games
The number of live casino games available
14Barz Casino offers a no-nonsense, clean interface for those that prefer a stripped-back casino experience. All players collect 'Barz' as they play, which can be exchanged for bonus funds and you'll get a complimentary 500 Barz when you make your first deposit.
-
17
Established 201818+. T&C ApplyRegular Cash Giveaway DrawsMultiple Blackjack Games with 99.63% RTPVIP Club with a Salon Privé for Elite Playersnot requiredBonus Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
Bonus Wagering
The number of times you have to play through your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
35XPayout Time
The average withdrawal processing time
1-5 DaysCasino Games
The total number of casino games available
1490Jackpot Slots
The number of jackpot slot games available
107Live Casino Games
The number of live casino games available
19Dream Vegas Casino aims to recreate the magic and excitement of the Vegas strip and is fully optimised for mobile use. Their generous sign-up bonus is split over your first three deposits.
-
18
Established 202218+ New players only, €10 min fund, €200 max bonus, max bonus conversion equal to lifetime deposits (up to €250), 65x wagering requirements and full T&Cs applyDistinctive Ancient Mexican ThemeCollect Trophies to Win Free SpinsMonthly Prize Draw Giveawaysnot requiredBonus Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
Bonus Wagering
The number of times you have to play through your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
65xPayout Time
The average withdrawal processing time
1-5 DaysCasino Games
The total number of casino games available
1600Jackpot Slots
The number of jackpot slot games available
40Live Casino Games
The number of live casino games available
13Aztec Wins Casino transports you back hundreds of years to the land of the Aztec Empire where you can complete tasks to collect trophies and earn free spins on the 'Mega Reel'.
-
19
Established 202018+. T&C Apply30-Level VIP Program with Unique RewardsWeekly Reload Bonuses with Free SpinsRegular Slots Tournaments with Cash Prizesnot requiredBonus Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
Bonus Wagering
The number of times you have to play through your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
40xPayout Time
The average withdrawal processing time
1-3 DaysCasino Games
The total number of casino games available
2793Jackpot Slots
The number of jackpot slot games available
22Live Casino Games
The number of live casino games available
590Bizzo Casino is a colourful online casino on the same platform as National Casino and 20Bet Casino. Just like its sister sites, Bizzo boasts a stylish and easy to navigate games lobby with a huge library of slots.
-
20
Established 202118+. T&C Apply10% Weekly Slots CashbackRegular Draws with Cash PrizesSilver & Gold VIP Reload Rewardsnot requiredBonus Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
Bonus Wagering
The number of times you have to play through your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
0xPayout Time
The average withdrawal processing time
1-3 DaysCasino Games
The total number of casino games available
3141Jackpot Slots
The number of jackpot slot games available
44Live Casino Games
The number of live casino games available
273Reload Casino live up to their name - reloading customer accounts with 10% of any slots (plus selected table game) losses every week, with no minimum or maximum cashback amounts.
-
21
Established 2022Offer only applies to new players, aged 18+.Unused free spins expires 24hrs after being issued. Spins are on several of our best paying games. Winnings won with spins that require deposit, have to be wagered 35x.
-
22
Established 202018+. T&C Apply
-
23
Established 202018+. T&C Apply
-
24
Established 201818+. T&C Apply
-
25
Established 202118+. T&c's apply.
-
26
Established 201718+. T&C Apply
-
27
Established 202018+. T&C Apply
-
28
Established 2021Terms and Conditions apply. Offer valid upon 4 deposits. New players only. 18+. Min deposit €20. Welcome package split over 4 deposits, 35x wagering applies. Max bet limitations per spin apply: €5
-
29
Established 202018+. T&C Apply
-
30
Established 202018+. T&C Apply
-
31
Established 2021Wagering requirement for the offer is x25 bonus + deposit. / Wagering requirement must be completed within 7 days. This campaign will go on until further notice. / koicasino.com reserves the right to change or cancel the promotion at any time. / koicasino.com’s general Terms & Conditions and Bonus rules apply.
-
32
Established 200718+. Opt in. Runs until 31/12/23. Selected UK & IRE players only. Qualifying players will be excluded from other Casino Welcome offers. Min. cash wagering of £/€10 (cumulative). 48 hrs to wager, 24 hrs to play, 168 hrs to play with Bonus (BNS). Max. redeemable £/€500 from BNS. 40x wagering on BNS. Until wagering requirement of Bonus is completed, stakes on other game will be taken from the Cash balance. Once per player. Game, game weighting, player restrictions apply. T&Cs apply
-
33
Established 199718+. T&C Apply
-
34
Established 199718+ New players with valid mobile number only • Claim in 48 hrs • 14 day expiry • Valid for selected games • Pre-1st deposit only: FS voucher winnings is uncapped, bonus wins & max redeemable amount for non-funded players capped at €100, excl. JP wins • Wager Bonus x1 - req. contributions vary by game • Bonus expires in 90 days • Deposit Offer: 1st time depositor at 888casino only • €20 min deposit • Claim in 48 hrs • Valid for selected games • Bonus wins capped at €500, excl. JP wins • Pre-1st deposit only: Bonus wins & max redeemable amount capped at €100, excl. JP wins • 30x wagering – req. vary by game • Bonus expires in 90 days • Payment method & country restrictions apply • Gamble responsibly. www.begambleaware.org. Terms Apply
-
35
Established 2017200% Welcome Bonus worth up to €3,000 + 50 Free Spins on your first deposit! Players will get the following bonuses with your first three deposits: 1st Deposit = 200% up to $3,000 + 50 Bonus Spins on Warlords: Crystals of Power. 2nd Deposit = 50% up to $250 + 100 Spins on Wild Wild West. 3rd Deposit = 100% up to $250 + 50 Bonus Spins on Reel Rush.
-
36
Established 202118+. T&C Apply
-
37
Established 202118+. New Customers Only. Min Deposit €20. Wagering req. x35. T&C's Apply
-
38
Established 201618+. Wagering requirements and bonus terms, in addition to general terms and conditions, apply.
-
39
Established 202218+. T&C Apply
-
40
Established 2017+18, T&C's apply.
-
41
Established 202218+. T&C's apply.
-
42
Established 202018+. T&C Apply
-
43
Established 200818+. T&C Apply
-
44
Established 2021
