Online casinos in France
Best Online Casinos in France
In France, only sports betting, horse race betting, and online poker are legal through operators licensed by the national regulator ANJ (Autorité Nationale des Jeux). Lotteries and scratch cards are run by FDJ, while traditional online casino games like slots, roulette, blackjack, and live tables remain restricted to land-based casinos. For players searching for the best online casinos in France, legal real-money play is limited to ANJ-approved platforms, as unlicensed sites operate outside French law.
Online Casinos in France
In France, online gambling is strictly regulated by ANJ. Licenses are issued only for sports betting, poker, and horse race betting. Classic casino games (slots, roulette, blackjack, etc.) are not legally available online.To avoid risks such as payment issues, lack of protection, or legal uncertainty, always choose ANJ-licensed operators. They typically offer:
- Transparent bonus terms and responsible gaming tools
- French-language customer support
- Secure KYC/AML procedures
- iOS and Android apps
- Fast, reliable payouts (cards, bank transfer, licensed e-wallets)
Some international sites claim to accept French players, but if they promote casino games, they are not nationally licensed. Always check for the official ANJ seal on the site or app. A true “online casino” is not legal in France. The only regulated online options are sports betting, poker, and horse racing. For a classic casino experience, you must visit land-based venues.
No Deposit Bonuses for France
No deposit bonus is one of the most searched keywords but in the French context, here’s what you should know. Since online casino games (slots/roulette/blackjack/live) are not legal online, casino no deposit bonuses for France from offshore sites are not compliant with local law and are not recommended. Licensed French operators can offer promotions for sports or poker, but these must follow strict rules on marketing, responsible play, and communication to vulnerable groups. Always read the terms and conditions, wagering requirements, and deadlines, and check ANJ’s regulatory notes on advertising and promotions.
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Gambling Laws and Regulations in France
France has one of the strictest gambling frameworks in Europe, based on the principle: prohibited by default, permitted by exception. In other words, all gambling is banned unless specifically authorized and overseen by ANJ (Autorité Nationale des Jeux).
What Is Legal Online in France?
Currently, only the following online gambling activities are licensed and regulated:
- Sports betting
- Online poker
- Horse race betting
Lotteries and scratch cards are managed under the state monopoly of Française des Jeux (FDJ), both online and offline. Since 2020, ANJ has replaced ARJEL with an expanded mandate covering the entire legal market.
Why Online Casinos Are Still Illegal
Despite frequent searches for the best online casinos in France, the law is clear: classic online casino games are not legal. In 2024, the European Commission reaffirmed FDJ’s exclusive rights in certain gambling segments, further proving the controlled nature of the French system. ANJ has also emphasized that any future opening to iGaming (including online casinos) would only happen through gradual, heavily supervised trials with strict rules for player protection and responsible gambling.
What This Means for Players
- Play only with ANJ-licensed operators (sports, poker, horse racing).
- Use available responsible gaming tools like deposit limits and self-exclusion.
- Avoid offshore sites offering casino games or aggressive bonusesthey operate outside French law and provide no local safeguards.
If France ever launches trial licenses for online casinos, ANJ will make an official announcement and set strict compliance requirements. Until then, a genuine online casino experience is available only in land-based venues.
FAQs
Are online casinos legal in France?
No, not when it comes to classic online casino games (slots, roulette, blackjack, live). Legal online options are sports betting, poker, and horse race betting only through ANJ-licensed operators.
Can I use a no deposit bonus for an online casino in France?
Casino no deposit offers from offshore sites are not compliant with French law. For permitted verticals (sports/poker), promotions are possible but subject to strict rules on advertising and responsible play.
What are the best legal alternatives to online casinos in France?
Licensed sports betting operators and poker rooms regulated by ANJ. Look for a clear license mark, responsible gaming tools, KYC, and reliable payment methods.
How can I check if a site is licensed by ANJ?
Visit ANJ’s official resources to find licensed operators. Legal sites clearly display their license number and mandatory responsible gaming warnings.
Is there a chance online casino games will be legalized?
The topic is under public debate. In 2024–2025, the regulator stressed a highly controlled outlook, and no concrete legislative changes are in effect as of France.
History of Gambling in France
mbling in France has long traditions. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, land-based casinos flourished in resort towns, shaping a model of strict control and responsible play that continues today. This is why online casinos remain restricted: authorities have always prioritized oversight in physical venues. With the rise of the internet, France allowed only sports betting, poker, and horse racing online, under strict audits and player protection measures (self-exclusion, deposit limits, age checks). ANJ maintains that any future opening to online casinos would be gradual and closely monitored. For now, the only safe and legal options for players seeking an online alternative are ANJ-licensed betting sites, poker platforms, and FDJ’s products.
