The Legality of European Online Casinos

European online gambling laws are much looser than that of the United States so, comparatively speaking, you can have your choice of European online casinos. Many are EC-tax free, which means you don’t have to pay European Commission tax on your winnings. They also accept credit card, bank wire and eWallet deposit often in Euros, pounds and U.S. dollars.

Internet gambling in Europe is tricky. While each of the 27 countries of the European Union (EU) has the authority to decide the legality of online gambling, they each must accept goods and services from other members without restriction. As a result, some countries outlawed online gambling, some allowed it, and some are in limbo as it is neither legal nor illegal. But, for the most part, Europeans can gamble online without legal prosecution. However, it is still important to check your local laws and regulations before gambling online.

Today and Tomorrow

Today, internet gambling is legal to a certain degree in the UK, Ireland, Italy, Sweden, Norway and Denmark. Other member nations are not so fortunate. In 2008, Germany banned nearly all types of online gambling until 2011. The ban has been challenged by the EU since Germany allows state-owned online gambling but restricts foreign competition. Bwin, an Austrian gambling company, sued all 16 German states in response to the regulation and won back the operation in several of the states. France has been iffy too but the goal is for their online gambling market to be resolved by the start of 2010.

With a billion dollar and ever-growing industry like online gambling, the service will never be completely outlawed. Gamblers will always be able to get their fill in one way or another online. It also serves as a leisure activity and an additional source of income to many.

Top European Online Casinos

Here are some of the top-rated European online casinos in gameplay, security and customer service.

 • Roxy Palace Casino: more than 300 games to choose from; 24/7 customer service; 100% match bonus up to €100.

 • Casino Tropez: multi-lingual with all the classics; broad selection of blackjack games; 100% match bonus up to €100 on first deposit and 100% match up to €200 on second deposit.

 • Allslots Casino: has some of the latest software from Microgaming; limited time welcome promo for new players worth up to €5,000 in chips.