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Gambling Treaty 2021: Which Exceptions Apply to Players?

The Gambling Treaty 2021 grants players almost no direct exceptions from central protection mechanisms such as the OASIS exclusion file. Only state lotteries, prize savings, and certain horse racing bets are exempt from the strict online casino limits (€1,000, 5-second rule). Minors are only permitted to participate in merchandise giveaways at folk festivals. For all other licensed online gambling, uniform federal restrictions on addiction prevention apply.

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Legal Exceptions: When Does the Gambling Treaty 2021 Not Apply?

The Gambling Treaty 2021 (GlüStV) sets strict framework conditions for online gambling in Germany. However, it contains specific exceptions for players that exempt certain formats from central restrictions such as the €1,000 deposit limit or the OASIS exclusion file. These regulatory special provisions primarily concern state lotteries, prize savings, and stationary horse racing bets, while narrow exception rules also apply to minors at folk festivals.

The term "exception" in the context of the GlüStV 2021 does not mean that a game is completely unregulated. It represents a differentiation of risk potentials. The legislator distinguishes between games with a high addiction risk (such as virtual slot machines) and those with a lower risk potential (such as lotteries). This distinction means that not all protection mechanisms apply equally to every game format. The OASIS exclusion file is designed as a universal instrument to keep problem gamblers away from all licensed offers. In contrast, technical interventions in the gameplay (such as the 5-second rule) are specifically targeted at fast, repetitive games.

Lotteries and Prize Savings as Privileged Exceptions

State lotteries and classic prize savings hold a special position in German gambling law. The legislator attributes them with a lower addiction potential compared to fast online slots. These formats are exempt from the requirement to check against the central OASIS exclusion file, which constitutes a key exception for players. This privilege does not mean complete deregulation: organizers and intermediaries remain obligated to identify participants to ensure youth protection and game integrity.

The legal basis for this separation lies in the differing risk assessments. Virtual slot machines pose a high addiction trigger due to rapid repetitions. With lotteries and prize savings, such mechanisms are excluded by definition. Players should note that this exception only applies to offers held at most twice a week or corresponding to traditional prize savings. Circumventing player exclusions is not intended. The regulation reflects the historical anchoring of these games in German society.

In lotteries, the player buys a ticket for a future draw. There is no immediate feedback loop that conditions the brain through rapid dopamine releases, as is the case with slot machines. Prize savings, often in the form of savings certificates with lottery-like elements, combine the aspect of wealth accumulation with the thrill of gambling. This defuses the psychological dynamic. Therefore, the GlüStV sees no need for the strict technical brakes mandated for online casinos.

Special Status of Horse Racing Bets in the New Treaty

Horse racing bets are subject to their own legal regime under the GlüStV 2021. It clearly distinguishes them from sports betting and online casino games. According to Section 2(5) of the GlüStV, different regulations apply to pure horse racing bets offered by clubs as part of a totalisator or stationary at racecourses. This is another important category of exceptions for players. These bets are not automatically subject to the strict limits for sports betting, provided they are not mixed online with other forms of gambling.

Notably, there is technical flexibility: the treaty allows sports betting and horse racing bets to be offered within a section of the same internet domain. This is prohibited for other combinations such as slots and poker. This structural coupling shows that the legislator recognizes the affinity between these betting formats without equating them regulatorily. Players encounter offers from licensed providers like Oddset or specialized betting shops that are subject to supervision. However, they are not necessarily forced into the same tight corset as online casinos.

The historical background of this special status lies in the long tradition of horse racing in Germany. It is often viewed as a "sport with betting characteristics" rather than pure gambling. The totalisator bet, where winnings are formed from the entire betting pool, differs fundamentally from fixed-odds betting in sports. This differentiation allows horse racing bets to be offered in formats that would not be permissible for other bets. The prerequisite is that the integrity of the racing sport is maintained.

Gambling at Folk Festivals and for Minors

One of the few situations where minors are legally allowed to participate in gambling-like activities concerns prize giveaways at folk festivals, country fairs, or similar events. Section 4(3) of the GlüStV 2021 permits this participation under the strict condition that the prize consists exclusively of low-value merchandise and no cash winnings are paid out. This regulation represents a clear exception for players that accommodates traditional customs without endangering youth protection.

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The definition of "low value" is crucial to distinguish illegal gambling from permitted festival attractions. As long as no monetary incentive is in the foreground but rather the entertainment character dominates, the offer remains exempt from the strict prohibition of public gambling for minors. Organizers must ensure that this boundary is not crossed. Otherwise, the permitability is revoked and regulatory sanctions loom. This niche shows that the GlüStV is not designed as a rigid total ban, but as a differentiated instrument to protect the most vulnerable.

Typical examples of such permitted games are raffles where one wins a plush teddy bear, or can tossing. The crucial point is that the stake (often only a few cents or euros) bears no relation to a possible cash prize. If cash were paid out instead, the activity would immediately fall under the strict prohibition of gambling for minors. This applies regardless of the location. This exception protects the cultural heritage of folk festivals while preventing children from being accustomed to monetary gambling mechanics at an early age.

OASIS and Player Exclusion File: Function and Scope of Exclusions

In the area of central exclusion systems, the Gambling Treaty 2021 provides almost no exceptions for players. The law relies on comprehensive protection. The Joint Gambling Authority of the States (GGL) monitors the OASIS database. It enforces a cross-provider exclusion for all licensed online gambling and many stationary offers. In parallel, the limit file regulates the monthly deposit limit of €1,000. Identity verification ensures that circumvention through multiple accounts does not occur.

It is a widespread misconception that the OASIS exclusion file only applies to online casinos. In fact, it is the central instrument of player protection that covers all licensed forms of gambling, unless explicitly exempted. The exceptions are very narrowly defined and primarily concern traditional lotteries. For the average player participating in sports betting, poker, or virtual slot machines, the OASIS exclusion file is ubiquitous and binding.

How Does Registration in the OASIS Database Work?

OASIS (Online Exclusion System) functions as the central player exclusion file. The Gambling Treaty 2021 mandated it to effectively shape addiction prevention and youth protection. Personal data of players is stored in this database. This concerns players who have either excluded themselves or been excluded by a provider due to suspicious gameplay behavior. Access to these sensitive data is strictly regulated: only licensed gambling providers and the Joint Gambling Authority of the States are permitted to query the file.

Before any online gameplay participation, the provider must check the player data against the exclusion file. This process is inextricably linked to identity verification. Only when the user's identity has been unequivocally verified can a reliable check against OASIS take place. Without successful identity verification, participation in legal online gambling in Germany is not possible. Otherwise, the system could not distinguish between different individuals. In the stationary sector, such as arcades or pubs with gambling machines, checking against the exclusion file is also mandatory. Here, the query often occurs upon entry or before the first game.

Self-exclusion in OASIS can be applied for for various periods, typically three months, one year, or indefinitely. Early removal of the exclusion is only possible under strict conditions and after a waiting period. This counters impulsive decisions. The measure has a preventive character: it is intended not only to manage acute crises but also to support long-term behavioral changes. Provider-initiated exclusion occurs when irregularities in gameplay behavior are detected. This indicates a risk, such as extremely high stakes in a short period or playing at unusual times.

Difference Between Player Exclusion and Limit File

It is crucial to distinguish the player exclusion file from the limit file. Both pursue different protection goals. The OASIS exclusion file results in a total participation ban: a player listed in OASIS may not play with any licensed provider in Germany. In contrast, the limit file stores the cross-provider deposit limit. The Gambling Treaty 2021 stipulates that players may generally not deposit more than €1,000 per month online.

Even if a player is not excluded in OASIS, they are subject to control by the limit file. This file ensures that the monthly deposit limit is adhered to across all licensed platforms. Thus, a player cannot circumvent the limit by distributing their deposits across multiple providers. The Joint Gambling Authority of the States monitors the technical connection of providers to this file to prevent manipulation. While the OASIS exclusion is often a long-term measure for combating addiction, the limit file serves preventive budget control for all active players.

This duality of systems is a cornerstone of German regulation. The limit file acts like an automatic financial advisor. It prevents players from unknowingly falling into financial difficulty. The OASIS exclusion file, on the other hand, is the "emergency brake" for those who already have problems with their gameplay behavior or where such a risk has been identified. Both systems work hand in hand to create a safety net. It acts both preventively and interventively.

Role of the Joint Gambling Authority of the States (GGL)

The Joint Gambling Authority of the States (GGL), headquartered in Halle (Saale), is the central supervisory authority. It was established by the Gambling Treaty 2021. Its main task is to monitor compliance with all gambling law requirements. This includes the correct use of OASIS and the limit file. The GGL ensures that providers operate their technical systems, such as the so-called Safe Server, in a way that allows for seamless electronic control.

By consolidating competencies at the GGL, uniform enforcement of player and youth protection across Germany is ensured. The authority checks whether identity verification meets legal standards. It also controls whether data checks against the player exclusion file occur in real time. Violations of exclusion or limitation requirements can lead to severe sanctions up to the revocation of the license. The GGL works closely with state authorities. Thus, the stationary sector, including arcades and betting agencies, is also included in supervision.

The centralization of supervision at the GGL was one of the most important reforms of the GlüStV 2021. Previously, gambling supervision in Germany was highly fragmented. This led to differing interpretations and enforcement deficits. With the GGL, there is now a "one-stop-shop" solution for the licensing and monitoring of online gambling. This increases legal certainty for providers and protection for players. Standards are applied uniformly across the country. The GGL regularly publishes reports on its activities. They provide transparency regarding the number of exclusions, imposed fines, and market development.

Financial and Technical Limits for Online Players

Exceptions for players under the Gambling Treaty 2021 are strictly limited. They primarily concern the approval of certain game formats under high conditions, not the exemption from protection mechanisms. For the majority of users, a cross-provider deposit limit of €1,000 per month applies. The GGL's central limit file monitors this. Technical restrictions such as the 5-second rule for slots and the prohibition of parallel gameplay are intended to minimize addiction risks. They are binding for all licensed providers.

These limits are non-negotiable. They apply to each player individually, regardless of their income or gaming history. The legislator consciously opted for a blanket solution. This reduces administrative complexity and enables rapid implementation. While some players criticize this blanket approach as too rigid, from an addiction prevention perspective, it is necessary to set a clear, unambiguous boundary.

The €1,000 Monthly Limit in Detail

The deposit limit is a central pillar of German player protection. It defines the maximum amount a player may deposit into their account per month. This upper limit is legally fixed at €1,000. It applies not only to a single provider but cross-provider for all licensed platforms in Germany. Deposits at different providers are cumulative. If a player has already deposited €800 with Provider A, they may only deposit up to €200 with Provider B before the limit is reached.

Technical enforcement takes place via the so-called limit file. It is a central database managed by the Joint Gambling Authority of the States (GGL). Every licensed provider is obligated to query the player's current status in this file before each deposit. This is particularly relevant for virtual slot machines. This game format is subject to strict regulatory conditions due to its high addiction potential. The limit applies equally to online poker and other permitted internet gambling. Exceptions are only possible in very narrow, officially approved individual cases. There is no automatic exception for VIP customers. The limit primarily serves to prevent financial damage and is a core instrument for channeling players into the legal market.

Players have the option to set their personal limit in the limit file lower than the statutory €1,000. This is a recommended measure for anyone who wants to strictly control their budget. However, increasing the limit beyond €1,000 is not possible. Changing a lower limit upwards is also subject to a waiting period. This prevents impulsive decisions. This "cooling-off" period is another example of how the GlüStV 2021 utilizes psychological mechanisms to promote responsible gaming.

Gameplay Restrictions: 5-Second Rule and Prohibition of Parallel Gameplay

To slow down the speed of the game and make impulsive decisions more difficult, the Gambling Treaty mandates a minimum pause of five seconds between two spins. This 5-second rule applies specifically to virtual slot machines. It prevents rapid, consecutive gameplay, which is often classified as particularly addictive. The goal is to enforce a "flow" interruption and allow players brief moments of reflection.

Closely linked to this is the prohibition of parallel gameplay. Players may not simultaneously participate in multiple online gambling games. This applies whether to different slot machines or multiple poker tables. This measure is intended to prevent players from excessively scattering their attention and budget, thereby losing control over their gameplay behavior. Technically, this is implemented through a five-minute lockout period after logging out of a game. During this time, the player remains blocked from other online gambling. Providers like PokerStars or Tipico must configure their systems to block simultaneous logins to multiple games from the same or another licensed provider. These restrictions apply regardless of whether the player prefers virtual slot machines or online poker. They are part of the comprehensive technical requirements for license holders.

The 5-second rule has fundamentally changed the gameplay mechanics of online slots in Germany. Many international games had to be adapted to integrate this pause. For players, this means the game pace is significantly slower than on unlicensed platforms. This is often perceived as disruptive. However, it serves the important purpose of reducing game intensity. The prohibition of parallel gameplay complements this. It prevents players from compensating for the slowness of one game by simultaneously participating in others.

Security Features: Panic Button and Real-Time Intervention

Another mandatory element is the panic button. It must be visibly placed on every game page. If a player presses this button, the ongoing game is immediately interrupted and the account is blocked for 24 hours. This function serves as an emergency brake in acute gambling addiction situations. It enables an immediate interruption of the gameplay.

Additionally, providers must operate a technical system known as the Safe Server. It records all relevant data for the supervisory authority. This ensures that interventions such as activating the panic button or complying with the 5-second rule can be monitored and traced in real time. Switching between different game areas, such as from sports betting to virtual slot machines, is also associated with a waiting period of one hour. During this time, winnings may not be used for other games. These hurdles are intended to deliberately create friction points. They prevent parallel gameplay and uncontrolled switching between game formats.

The panic button is a simple yet effective instrument. It returns control to the player when they realize they are crossing the boundary of responsible gaming. The 24-hour block is long enough to break acute gambling addiction. It is short enough not to be perceived as a permanent punishment. In combination with the other technical measures, it forms a comprehensive safety net. It protects the player in critical moments.

Status of Online Casinos, Poker, and Sports Betting

The Gambling Treaty 2021 provides no exceptions for players in the sense of free passes. It defines strict protection mechanisms. Since July 1, 2021, virtual slot machines, online poker, and online casino games have been licensable under restrictive conditions. This is intended to create legal alternatives to the black market. While sports betting and poker occupy specific regulatory niches, casino games are subject to a complex web of state competencies and technical restrictions. These fundamentally alter the gaming experience.

Regulation has fundamentally changed the market in Germany. Many international providers have left the German market. They either did not want to or could not meet the strict conditions. Others have adapted their offerings and applied for licenses. For players, this means they have a smaller selection of games. In return, they play in a safe, regulated environment.

Are Online Casinos Completely Banned in Germany Since 2021?

No, a total ban no longer exists. However, licensability is tied to strict prerequisites. The Gambling Treaty 2021 enables the licensing of online casino games. The federal states can choose between a state monopoly, a private monopoly, or the issuance of limited concessions. However, these online casino games may only be offered as virtual slot machines. Classic table games such as roulette or blackjack in live format are excluded.

A central aspect of the regulation is technical monitoring. Providers must operate a so-called Safe Server system. It records all game-specific data and enables the Joint Gambling Authority of the States (GGL) to conduct electronic control in real time. For players, this means every round is documented. Additionally, a maximum stake of €1 per spin and a monthly deposit limit of €1,000 apply to these games. The limit file monitors this cross-provider. The RTP (Return to Player) rate, i.e., the theoretical payout percentage, is not fixed by law. However, it must be transparent and is subject to supervision to prevent manipulation.

The ban on live dealer games and classic table games is one of the most controversial measures of the GlüStV 2021. The legislator justifies this with the higher addiction potential of these games. They are often perceived as more immersive and social. For players who prefer these games, only the path to unlicensed providers remains. This is associated with significant risks. The licensing of virtual slot machines, on the other hand, is a compromise. It allows for the creation of a controlled offer that minimizes addiction risks through technical limits.

Regulation of Online Poker and Sports Betting

Different rules apply to online poker and sports betting than to slots. Online poker is defined as a distinct product. It is not subject to the €1 spin limit, as it is classified as a game of skill with a luck component. However, the advertising ban between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. also applies here. This severely restricts the visibility of online poker offers on German television and radio. The integrity of the game is ensured by checking against the OASIS exclusion file. This prevents parallel gameplay.

With sports betting, the focus is on protecting the integrity of the sport. Bets on events that are susceptible to manipulation or where minors predominantly participate are prohibited. An important innovation is the licensability of live bets on specific events such as the "next goal". The prerequisite is that they do not endanger sports integrity. Sports betting is not subject to the same rigid deposit limit as slots. However, providers must ensure that no excluded players participate. Sports betting regulation also permits decentralized intermediation in betting shops, provided they are controllable.

The distinction between poker and slots is important. It shows that the GlüStV 2021 does not treat all games with the same brush. Poker is treated differently due to the skill factor. This is reflected in the absence of the 5-second rule and the €1 limit. Sports betting, in turn, is regulated from the perspective of sports integrity. This leads to bans on certain betting markets. This differentiation is a sign of the complexity of German gambling law.

Prohibition of Live Dealer Games and Progressive Jackpots

The Gambling Treaty 2021 explicitly excludes certain game formats. This leads to a ban on live dealer games in the licensed German market. Since only virtual slot machines are permitted, real table games with human dealers fall under the prohibition of organizing public gambling online. No license is issued for these. This ban on live dealer games aims to limit addiction potential. Live games are often classified as more immersive and therefore riskier.

Progressive jackpots are also affected. Networks offering cross-border or global jackpots are hardly compatible with the German licensing model. They could circumvent the technical requirements for local data storage and the €1,000 limit. Providers must ensure that jackpots do not lead to circumvention of stake limits. In practice, this means that many international jackpots are not available to players with a German IP address. Or they are offered in an isolated, local variant that complies with regulatory requirements. The State Lottery and Casino Administration also reserves the monopoly for certain jackpot-like payouts in some states. This further restricts the private market.

Responsible Gaming: Support Services and Resources

An often overlooked but crucial aspect of the Gambling Treaty 2021 is the obligation of providers to direct players to support services. The state has recognized that technical limits alone are insufficient to prevent gambling addiction. Therefore, licensed providers are required to actively link to counseling centers and self-help groups. This creates a safety net that goes beyond purely technical regulation.

The Role of the BzgA and Check-dein-Spiel.de

The Federal Centre for Health Education (BzgA) is one of the most important institutions in the field of addiction prevention in Germany. It operates the portal Check-dein-Spiel.de, which was specifically developed for gambling addiction. This service is free, anonymous, and available around the clock. Players can take a self-test here to check their gaming behavior. If necessary, they receive referrals to professional counseling centers.

Licensed providers must clearly and visibly link to Check-dein-Spiel.de on their websites. This is not an optional measure, but a statutory requirement of the GlüStV 2021. The link must be easily findable, ideally in the footer or menu of the website. This measure ensures that players with problems can access low-threshold help. The BzgA also provides informational materials for relatives and professionals. This raises awareness of the risks of gambling.

The integration of these support services into the regulated market structure is an important step towards destigmatizing gambling addiction. By actively pointing to help, providers signal that they take responsibility for their customers seriously. For players, it is important to utilize these services before problems escalate. The self-test on Check-dein-Spiel.de is a good first step to realistically assess one's own situation.

Additional Support Services and Self-Help Groups

Aside from the BzgA, there is a wide variety of other support services in Germany. The addiction counseling centers of Caritas, Diakonie, and AWO offer personal counseling sessions. These are often free. These organizations have trained specialists who can address the player's situation individually. Additionally, there are self-help groups such as Gamblers Anonymous. Here, affected individuals exchange experiences and support each other.

The networking of these services is promoted by the GGL and state authorities. There are central contact points that refer players to the appropriate support institution. This coordination is important to ensure that no one falls through the cracks. For relatives of problem gamblers, there are specialized counseling services. They help cope with the situation and motivate the affected person to accept help.

State-Specific Features and Monopolies

The exceptions for players in the Gambling Treaty 2021 are not a free pass. They are closely tied to state-specific monopoly structures. While online slots are subject to strict limits nationwide, federal states like Bavaria retain the right to operate terrestrial and digital casino games as a state monopoly. This special regulation means that private providers in these regions do not receive licenses for online casinos. The State Lottery and Casino Administration exercises exclusive sovereignty. Players must therefore distinguish between the federally harmonized rules for sports betting and the local exceptions for lotteries or state casinos to act with legal certainty.

The State Monopoly in Bavaria and Other States

Bavaria has explicitly opted for a state monopoly regulation within the framework of the state opening clauses of the GlüStV 2021. This covers both terrestrial and online casino games. In contrast to other federal states that examine private concessions for arcades or online providers, the organization of online casino games in Bavaria is exclusively the responsibility of the State Lottery and Casino Administration. This authority thereby fulfills the channeling mandate according to Section 1 No. 2 of the GlüStV 2021. It provides a controlled offer intended to minimize addiction risks.

This has concrete implications for players: Private online casinos are not permitted to offer casino games in Bavaria. Casinos as state institutions may continue to operate. The casinos in Bavaria are subject to specific state legal regulations. These go beyond the treaty and emphasize the securing mandate of the Free State. This strict separation ensures that the gambling offer in Bavaria is significantly more restrictive than in states with open licensing markets for private operators. Anyone searching for legal online casino alternatives in Bavaria will find that the offer remains limited to state portals. Sports betting and lotteries remain accessible through private, licensed providers.

Other federal states such as North Rhine-Westphalia or Hesse have opted for open licensing markets. Private providers can operate there under strict conditions. These differences lead to a patchwork of regulation. This can be confusing for players. Therefore, it is important to inform oneself about the specific regulations in one's own federal state. Although the GGL attempts to ensure a certain harmonization, state sovereignty in gambling law remains a defining factor.

Role of State Lottery Administrations

Aside from casino monopolies, state lotteries play a central role in the German gambling market. The German Lotto and Totoblock coordinates the joint lottery offerings of the states. It ensures that these comply with the requirements of the GlüStV 2021. Lotteries enjoy a special status in the treaty. They are classified as a traditional form of gambling with lower addiction risks. Therefore, they are exempt from many technical restrictions that apply to online slots.

A well-known example of state presence in the sports betting segment is Oddset. It appears as a brand of the state lottery administrations. Oddset offers sports bets that are directly subject to the state monopoly. Thus, they are not subject to the same regulatory hurdles as private betting providers. The prerequisite is that they comply with the treaty's requirements. The German Lotto and Totoblock acts as an umbrella organization here. It consolidates the interests of the individual state lotteries and ensures a uniform market presence. For players, this means that offers like Oddset or classic lottery products are considered particularly safe. They are directly state-controlled and payouts are guaranteed.

Jurisdiction of State Gambling Authorities

Despite the establishment of the Joint Gambling Authority of the States (GGL) as the central supervisory authority for internet gambling, state gambling authorities remain responsible for certain areas. In particular, the respective state authorities are responsible for monitoring terrestrial casinos, arcades, and state lotteries. Players who have problems with a licensed provider must therefore first check whether it involves an online-based game (jurisdiction: GGL) or a local offer (jurisdiction: state authority).

The state gambling authorities work closely with the GGL. This ensures seamless supervision. This applies in particular to the enforcement of exclusions or the prosecution of violations of youth and player protection. In Bavaria, for example, the responsible state authority monitors compliance with the state monopoly by the State Lottery and Casino Administration. It ensures that no illegal private providers operate on the market. This dual structure requires players to have a precise understanding of jurisdictions. In the event of complaints, they must choose the correct contact person.

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About This Article - Editorial & Responsibility

Author: Sarah Weber - Casino Tester & Bonus Analyst Peer-reviewed by: Dr. Markus Hoffmann - Senior iGaming Compliance Analyst Last Updated: 2026-07-20.

This article on "Gambling Treaty 2021 Exceptions for Players" was written by Sarah Weber and peer-reviewed by Dr. Markus Hoffmann. Both regularly update the content regarding regulatory changes, license availability, and bonus terms. All statements regarding licenses, authorities, and legal frameworks refer to publicly accessible sources (GGL (Joint Gambling Authority of the States), Gambling Treaty 2021 (GlüStV 2021)).

About the Author

8+ years of casino reviews, 200+ personally tested platforms in the EU and internationally. Former member of the eCOGRA Player Advocacy Program (2018-2022). Specialization: Wagering requirements, payout workflows, customer support evaluation.

About the Reviewer

12+ years in the iGaming industry, including 5 years as a compliance consultant for licensed operators under the Gambling Treaty 2021. PhD in Business Mathematics. Research focus: Bonus mathematics, wager analysis, player protection systems (OASIS).

Responsible Gaming

Gambling can be addictive. If you feel you are losing control over your gaming behavior, please contact BzgA gambling addiction help, Check-dein-Spiel.de, or use the central exclusion system (OASIS (central player exclusion system)). Set personal deposit and loss limits before playing with real money. Breaks and cooldown functions of providers are not a sign of weakness - they are a tool for sustainable enjoyment of the game.

Legal Notice

The information in this article serves exclusively editorial and comparison purposes. It does not constitute legal advice. The legal assessment of online gambling without a German license is a gray area and is subject to ongoing adjustments by the GGL (Joint Gambling Authority of the States). Players are themselves responsible for complying with local regulations.

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FAQ

Does the Interstate Treaty on Gambling 2021 also apply to foreign providers without a German license?
No, the Interstate Treaty on Gambling 2021 primarily regulates the organization and brokerage of gambling within Germany by licensed providers. For players, this means that offers from providers licensed in Malta or Curaçao do not fall under German protection mechanisms such as the deposit limit. They also do not offer legal protection through the Joint Gambling Authority of the States. The use of such platforms exists in a legal gray area. The state is attempting to combat the black market through blocking measures.
What specific exceptions for players exist for sports betting compared to online casinos?
Under the Interstate Treaty on Gambling 2021, sports betting is subject to less strict technical restrictions than virtual slot games. They are not subject to the 1-euro stake limit per spin. While online casino games and slots follow strict addiction prevention rules, sports betting is governed by different requirements regarding competition integrity. Nevertheless, sports betting providers are also required to participate in the central blocking system OASIS. This prevents simultaneous play.
Are online casinos in Germany completely banned or only restricted since 2021?
Online casinos are not completely banned. They are subject to strict regulation under the Interstate Treaty on Gambling 2021. This allows for licensing of virtual slot games and online poker. Providers must comply with requirements such as the monthly deposit limit of 1,000 euros. Their games must be hosted on secure servers. These exceptions to the total ban for players only apply if the provider holds a permit from the Joint Gambling Authority of the States.
What does the 1-euro stake limit mean and are there any exceptions for players?
The 1-euro stake limit is a central protective measure of the Interstate Treaty on Gambling 2021. It limits the maximum stake per spin on virtual slot games. There are no direct exceptions allowing players to bypass this limit on licensed slots. It serves addiction prevention purposes. Other forms of gambling such as lotteries or horse racing bets are not subject to this specific technical rule. They are categorized differently.
Are players allowed to play at licensed providers without a personal limit?
No, at all providers licensed under the Interstate Treaty on Gambling 2021, a monthly deposit limit of a maximum of 1,000 euros is mandatory. Players can only set this limit lower in the limit file. They cannot completely remove or exceed it. This rule applies uniformly to all users. It ensures the addiction prevention goals defined in the treaty.
Are there any exceptions to the OASIS blocking file in the new Interstate Treaty on Gambling?
Hardly any forms of gambling are exempt from participation in the central OASIS blocking system. It is the core of player protection under the Interstate Treaty on Gambling 2021. Only certain lotteries and, to some extent, horse racing bets are not fully subject to the same technical networking requirements as online slots. However, a block in the player blocking file applies across state lines. It excludes the player from all participating licensed offers.
What penalties do players face for violating the Interstate Treaty on Gambling?
The Interstate Treaty on Gambling 2021 primarily targets unauthorized operators, not the players themselves. Therefore, there are no direct criminal penalties for using such services. The main goal is to prevent secondary and associated crime as well as to protect players from fraudulent practices in the black market. However, players risk losing their stakes. They have no legal claims in case of problems with unlicensed providers.