Discover the Thrills of Greek Online Casinos
Satisfy your gambling cravings in Greece with its booming online casino industry. Since its legalization in 2011, the country has become a hub for both land-based and virtual gaming. As a player eager to dive into this vast world of gambling, we have created the ultimate guide to help you make informed choices when selecting the top online casino in this region.
Discover the rich history of gambling in Greece and explore the laws, payment options, bonuses, and customer support services available for online gambling. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of what to anticipate when visiting your preferred online casino!
The Evolution of Greek Online Gambling: A Fascinating Journey Through Time
Greece is renowned for its rich history, filled with tales of gods and goddesses, as well as groundbreaking philosophers and scientists. However, the country’s gambling industry has also had a fascinating journey through time. It all started in the late 1950s with the establishment of the Greek Organization of Football Prognostics S.A. (OPAP), which held a monopoly over sports betting and lottery in Greece. But things have changed dramatically since then.
1958: The Birth of OPAP – The Greek Organization of Football Prognostics S.A.
2002: A Ban on Online Gambling – A Failed Attempt to Control Social Issues
2011: Legalization of Online Gambling – The Birth of the Hellenic Gaming Commission
2012 – Present: Opening Up to Foreign Operators – Embracing Competition and Growth
Discover the Exciting Future of Online Gambling in Greece
With the Greek gambling commission making efforts to align their laws with those of other European countries, the online gambling market in Greece is set to become even more enticing. And with the new law allowing foreign operators to obtain licenses, players can expect a surge in the number of online casinos and sports betting sites available.
This means increased revenue for the country and a plethora of options for players, including attractive bonuses and extensive game collections. Currently, only registered users have access to bonuses at Greek online casinos. However, as laws continue to relax, we predict that this restriction will be lifted, giving players more freedom to choose from a variety of casino bonuses.
In addition to the expected boom in online gambling in Greece, there may also be a rise in land-based casinos and resorts. This ties in with promotions offered by some of the top-rated online casinos, which reward loyal players with vacations and tours at their physical establishments.
The Legality and Regulation of Greek Online Casinos
All forms of gambling are completely legal and regulated under Greece’s 2011 gambling act. This law (4002/2011) outlines all requirements for operating a casino within the country’s borders. As mentioned earlier, it is enforced by the Hellenic Gambling Commission (HGC), which also grants licenses to online casinos seeking to operate in Greece.
Some foreign online casinos that accept Greek players may not hold an HGC license. In such cases, it is important for players to look for licenses from other reputable authorities such as Malta Gaming Authority or Curacao eGaming Authority. However, it should be noted that if you choose to play with these unlicensed operators, the HGC will not be able to protect you from any exploitation or violations that may occur.
To gamble at a land-based or online casino in Greece, players must be at least 21 years old. Anything below this age is considered a violation of gambling laws and could result in penalties such as fines, bans, or other consequences as dictated by the law.
Deposit and Withdrawal Limits at Greek Online Casinos
According to the HGC, the maximum bet allowed at a Greek online casino is €20. This limit was recently raised from €2. The limit for jackpot games was also raised from €70,000 to €140,000. When it comes to withdrawals, non-jackpot winnings are capped at €10,000.
Players can use various payment methods for deposits and withdrawals at Greek online casinos ranging from cash transactions at OPAP stores to e-wallets.
Licensing Requirements for Greek Online Casinos
The HGC has the authority to issue and revoke licenses for all online gambling platforms operating in Greece. Any casino holding an HGC license is protected under the country’s gambling laws outlined in the 2011 act. This means that players are also protected when playing at licensed casinos – they are safeguarded against exploitation and violations while engaging in gambling activities.
To apply for an HGC license, operators must pay a fee of €3 million which is valid for five years only. They are also required to pay a minimum tax rate of €1 million.
Promoting Responsible Gambling in Greek Online Casinos
The gambling act ensures that all online casinos in Greece comply with strict regulations, including only accepting players who are 21 years or older. This is enforced by requiring players to present their ID cards at land-based or online casinos for age verification and tax registration number confirmation, among other criteria. Additionally, Greek online casinos must offer tools that allow players to set limits on their gambling activities.
These tools may include setting time and bet limits as well as self-exclusion options for those who struggle with excessive gambling. Casinos are also required to assist players in adhering to these restrictions at all times. To further promote responsible gambling, Greek online casinos must provide helplines and support services for individuals dealing with gambling addictions.
Where to Find Help for Gambling Addiction in Greece?
Most online casinos in Greece provide a helpline or contact information for associations that specialize in helping individuals overcome gambling addiction. These associations include Gamblers Anonymous and Kathea – a recognized organization in Greece that offers support, prevention, and therapy services for those struggling with gambling problems.
Taxation of Winnings at Greek Online Casinos
If you’re a high-stakes player at an online casino, you may have concerns about the taxes imposed by Greek operators. All players are required to declare their winnings and pay a minimum of 15% tax on them.
For example, if your winnings fall between €100 – €500, you will be taxed 15%. Anything above €500 gets taxed at a rate of 20%. Players who win less than €100 are not subject to any taxes.
Note that these winnings must be declared within 30 days or face penalties. Casino operators are also taxed at a rate of 35% on their revenue from bets.
Enjoy Generous Bonuses at Greek Online Casinos
Although Greek online casinos are not allowed to advertise bonuses to unregistered users, it’s important for players to know what they can expect. Luckily, online casinos in Greece offer some of the most enticing bonus packages on the market, including bonus funds and free spins. These bonuses are typically categorized as follows:
Welcome Bonuses
The most significant bonuses offered by Greek online casinos are welcome bonuses, which are designed to attract new players. These usually come in the form of bonus funds awarded after making an initial deposit. For example, a casino may offer a 100 – 150% deposit match on your first payment up to €1000. Some casinos may require a minimum deposit and/or a bonus code to claim this offer.
Aside from the extra funds, many casinos offer complimentary spins with their deposit bonuses, which can reach up to 150 free spins. While these bonuses may be tempting, it’s crucial to pay attention to the terms and conditions. This includes wagering requirements, validity period, and eligible games.
In special cases, a Greek online casino might present you with a no-deposit bonus, where you can win real money without having to place a bet first. These bonuses usually have lower prizes compared to deposit bonuses but come with fewer restrictions as well.
Promotional Offers
Online gambling becomes even more enjoyable when the casino offers bonuses on specific days, cashback rewards, and jackpot prizes. Fortunately, many Greek online casinos have a dedicated promotions page where players can participate in ongoing offers that apply to certain categories of games on designated days. For example, there could be a “Blackjack Monday” where players receive bonus funds for playing blackjack on Mondays.
Cashback rewards are also available at some casinos, where players receive a percentage of their losses back from specific game categories. You’ll find various promotions like these at online casinos in Greece.
VIP and Loyalty Programs
To retain customers, several online gambling platforms have loyalty schemes where players earn points based on their bets and number of games played. As they accumulate points, they unlock different levels that offer additional gaming perks compared to regular players. These perks may include birthday rewards, higher withdrawal limits, better game bonuses and more. Such schemes are available at Greek online casinos as well.
Understanding Wagering Requirements at Greek Online Casinos
When claiming bonuses at online casinos in Greece, it’s crucial to pay attention to the wagering requirements. This refers to the number of times a bonus must be wagered before it can be withdrawn. For instance, if you receive a €20 bonus with a 25x wagering requirement, you must bet €500 on selected games before being able to cash out the bonus.
If you’re attracted to a casino because of its appealing bonus offer, make sure that the wagering requirements are reasonable and achievable. Also, always check the validity period required to meet these requirements.
Payment Methods Available at Greek Online Casinos
For deposits and withdrawals at online casinos in Greece, players have access to an extensive range of payment methods. Each method has its own limits and processing times and may not be available at all casinos. However, some general payment methods used in Greece include:
Prepaid, Credit and Debit Cards
This is perhaps the most commonly used method at Greek online casinos. Players can easily deposit or withdraw funds using their cards such as VISA, Mastercard, American Express or Maestro. Prepaid cards like Paysafecard are also accepted for instant deposits but withdrawals may take up to seven days depending on the amount and card issuer.
Cash via OPAP Stores
Some Greek online casinos allow players to use cash as a payment method. However, this process may vary depending on the casino’s policies. Alternatively, players can also deposit or withdraw funds using OPAP stores located throughout their area.
E-Wallets
E-wallet platforms such as Neteller, PayPal and Skrill are also popular payment methods among Greek casino players. These options do not require a bank account or statement, and withdrawals are typically processed within 24 hours.
Revolut and eBanking
Players can request their bank to make an online transfer to their preferred online casino, which may also accept Revolut. However, deposits and withdrawals may take longer to process before reflecting in the player’s account.
Digital Wallets and Payment Systems
Greek online casinos also offer payment platforms like VivaWallet, IRIS, Rapid Transfer, TWIGA, and SmartPay. These options function similarly to e-wallets, allowing players to deposit and withdraw funds without sharing their banking information. Deposits are usually processed instantly but withdrawals may take a day or more.
Top Greek Online Casinos
Category | Casino |
---|---|
Overall best online casino in Greece | Fairspin Casino |
Greek online casino with the best games | Thunderpick Casino |
Online casino in Greece with the highest payouts | CoinGames Casino |
Greek online casino with the best bonuses | Metaspins Casino |
Best Greek online live casino | Pirateplay Casino |
Unlock the Secrets of Registering on Greek Online Casinos
Greek online casinos offer a plethora of features and benefits that make them an irresistible choice for players. If you’re eager to join the action, don’t worry – registering is a breeze and takes mere seconds. However, before you can access all the games and additional features, you’ll need to provide a valid license proving you’re 21 or older. If your chosen Greek online casino has a mobile app available, you can opt to download it for an even smoother experience. Alternatively, simply use your desktop or mobile web browser to access the casino site. Once logged in, follow the steps outlined in the headings below.
Estimated Time Needed: 00:05
Tools Needed: Account
Supplies Needed: Time, Money
Step 1:
Head to the Sign-Up Page
The first step is simple – log into your chosen Greek online casino and look for a sign-up button at the top of the home page. Click on it to open up the registration form where you’ll need to verify your identity by providing personal details.
Step 2:
Fill in the Required Information
The online gambling registration page will require you to enter important details such as your name, surname, address, date of birth, tax registration number and more. Depending on the casino, you may also need to upload an ID for verification purposes.
Step 3:
Create Your Account
If the casino requires a bonus code to claim your welcome bonus, make sure to enter it in the designated box. Agree to the terms and conditions set by the casino and create your account. You should receive a verification email or code to confirm your account.
Step 4:
Head to the Cashier Page and Make Your First Deposit
Now that your online gambling account is confirmed, you may be eager to start playing games. However, if you’re planning on playing for real money, it’s important to first navigate to the cashier page and make a deposit. This will allow you to place wagers on games and start winning.
What Are the Perks and Downsides of Gambling With Online Greek Casinos?
The several features of Greek online casinos make them look pretty much enticing to the average gambler. However, with these many upsides, they’re still some noticeable downsides to Greek online casinos in general. Both pros and cons of online casinos in Greece are summarised below.
Pros
Wide range of casino games 24/7 live casino Responsive customer support services Intuitive and responsive web interface Excellent payment methods Mobile casino apps availableCons
Taxes on winnings above €100 Non-advertisement of casino bonuses to non-registered users High age limit Low maximum deposit limitDiscover the Differences: Greek Online Casinos vs Land-Based Casinos
While Greece may have more online casinos, the quality of service at land-based casinos cannot be beat. These luxurious resorts offer a complete gambling experience, filled with excitement and unforgettable moments. Let’s take a closer look at the distinctions between land-based and online gambling in Greece.
Experience Greek Culture at Land-Based Casinos
Immerse yourself in rich Greek culture
Enjoy a lively party atmosphere while you gamble
Network and connect with other gamblers
Avoid long lines for placing bets and playing games
Limited selection of games available
Convenience and Accessibility: Greek Online Casinos
Enjoy gambling from the comfort of your own home
No distractions or interruptions while playing
No need to interact with other gamblers
Avoid long lines for placing bets and playing games
Some withdrawal times may not be as fast as others
Discover the Top Greek Online Casinos and How They’re Evaluated
1
Verified Licenses
Prioritizing your safety, we carefully review and confirm the licenses held by each online casino listed. For Greek casinos, we ensure they are licensed by the Hellenic Gambling Commission. Foreign casinos must hold reputable licenses from authorities like MGA and Curacao eGaming.
2
Secure Gaming Environment
In addition to a valid license, these casinos are equipped with SSL encryption and other security measures to protect your personal and financial information from third-party access.
3
Diverse Game Selection
“Experience endless entertainment with our vast collection of games including slots, roulette, blackjack, baccarat, video poker, live dealer options, and more.”The options for placing wagers at these online casinos are endless. In addition to traditional casino games, you may also find unique options like lottery, keno, craps, and bingo.
4
Generous Bonus Offers
“Get rewarded with amazing bonuses and promotions at our top-rated Greek online casinos. Fair terms and conditions guaranteed.”The casinos on our list offer some of the best bonus deals in the Greek online gambling market. From welcome bonuses to ongoing promotions, you’ll be treated to exceptional rewards. Plus, all terms and conditions are fair and free from exploitation.
Best 5 Online Casinos in Greece
Rank | Casino | Year Established | Licence | Bonuses |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Fairspin Casino | 2018 | Curacao | 100% up to €100000 + 30 free spins |
2 | Betti Casino | 2022 | Curacao | 100% up to €100 |
3 | Legzo Casino | 2022 | Antillephone License Validation | 300% up to €1500 + 500 FS |
4 | Metaspins Casino | 2022 | Curacao | 100% up to 1 BTC |
5 | Pledoo Casino | 2021 | Curacao | 100% up to €200 + 75 Free spins |
Discover the Thrills of Casino Gaming in Greece
Experience an array of exciting casino games at top-rated Greek online casinos. From classic slots to live dealer tables, there’s something for every player to enjoy.
- Slot Machines: Explore thousands of slot games with various themes and bonus features at these online casinos. Be sure to play from trusted providers like Evolution Gaming, Pragmatic Play, and Microgaming.
- Table Games: Diversify your bets with popular titles like Roulette, Blackjack, Baccarat, and Video Poker. With different variations available, you’ll never run out of options.
- Live Dealer Games: Add a touch of realism to your gaming experience with live versions of table games like Blackjack and Roulette. Interact with professional dealers in real time without leaving the comfort of your home.
- Beyond the Classics: In addition to traditional casino games, you can also try your luck on unique options like Craps, Keno, Bingo, and Lottery. These add an extra layer of excitement to your gambling journey.
Discover the Advantages of Playing at Greek Online Casinos
Greek online casinos are gaining popularity thanks to their impressive features, as mentioned above. These highlights are sure to attract players, but in case you’re still unsure of what perks these casinos offer, here’s a quick summary.
Greek online casinos excel when it comes to welcome bonuses and promotions. Many of them offer no-deposit bonuses, which give you free bets without requiring a deposit. This is perfect for trying out games and potentially winning without risking your own money.
You can also enjoy deposit bonuses that can reach up to €1000 or more, along with free spins.
Signing up with a Greek online casino is a breeze – as long as you’re 21 years or older. It only takes seconds to create an account and start placing bets and playing games. And the best part? You can sign up from your mobile phone or desktop, and many casinos even offer a convenient mobile app for an even easier sign-up process.
Greek online casinos have a vast selection of games that are both entertaining and profitable. With so many options to choose from, you could play for hours without repeating a game. These include various genres and themes of slots, roulette, baccarat, poker, and blackjack. And if you’re into lottery games, you’ll find them in many Greek casinos as well. Don’t forget about live dealer games and other options like keno, bingo, and craps.
While Greek online casinos are all about fun and excitement, they also take responsible gambling seriously. They provide tools such as time limits, bet limits, and self-exclusion options to promote safe gambling habits and prevent players from going bankrupt. These measures ensure that playing at these casinos remains enjoyable without any negative consequences.
Discover the Essential Requirements for Playing at an Online Casino in Greece
After exploring the details provided about Greek online casinos, it’s important to consider the following crucial factors when choosing your preferred casino:
- Game Selection: A diverse array of high-quality casino games should be readily available.
- Safety & Security: The casino must hold a valid license and implement robust security measures to safeguard your personal data.
- Payment Methods: The option to use various trusted Greek payment methods is a must-have.
- Customer Support: Easily accessible support channels in the Greek language are essential for a seamless experience.
In Conclusion
This comprehensive review of Greek online casinos provides all you need to navigate the country’s gambling market. Rest assured that you can enjoy maximum entertainment while gambling, knowing that you’re fully protected by regional laws, just like with European casino sites. With great potential for growth and becoming a major source of revenue for the state, the future looks bright for the Greek gambling industry as it aligns with other EU countries.
References
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it legal to gamble at online casinos in Greece?
Gambling has been legalized in Greece since 2012, making all forms of gambling activities lawful and permissible under the country’s laws.
Do I have to pay taxes on my casino winnings in Greece?
If your winnings fall within the range of €100 – 500, a 15% tax will apply. For anything above €500, the tax rate increases to 20%. However, any winnings below €100 are exempt from taxes.
What are the most commonly used payment methods at online casinos in Greece?
The preferred payment options among players in Greek online casinos include credit and debit cards, prepaid cards, and e-wallets.
What types of games can I play at Greek online casinos?
At Greek online casinos, you can enjoy a variety of games including slot machines, table games, and live dealer games.
Is customer support available in Greek at Greek online casinos?
Yes, customer support services at Greek online casinos are available in the Greek language.
Can I use Greek payment methods to make deposits and withdrawals at online casinos in Greece?
Absolutely. Some casinos accept cash payments through OPAP stores and traditional digital systems, making it convenient for players to use local payment methods.
Are there offshore casinos that cater to players in Greece?
Yes, there are many foreign-based casinos that offer their services to players in Greece.