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Best Online Casinos in France

While land-based gambling in France is legalized and more than two hundred casinos are open in the country, the situation in the online gambling industry is not so rosy. Registration and licensing of online casinos is prohibited in France. On the other hand, the law does not regulate the right of players to use the services of sites registered in other countries.

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Introduction: Review of the best online casinos in France

Therefore, if the user is willing to take responsibility and risks, no one forbids spinning the reels or playing cards on any available online resource. By the way, it is not difficult to find online casinos translated into French, because this language is widely used around the world, for example, in Canada.

10 best French online casinos

  1. Tortuga Casino - 100% Welcome bonus up to 1200 euros;
  2. Slottica Casino - 200% Welcome bonus up to €200 + 25 free spins;
  3. Justbit Casino - Welcome bonus 30 free Spins & 45% Cashback;
  4. True Flip Casino - Welcome Bonus 20% CashBack +30 freespins;
  5. Lucky8 Casino - 100% Welcome Bonus up to 500 euros + 150 freespins;
  6. JackPot City Casino - Welcome deposit bonus €1,600;
  7. Banzai Slots Casino - 100% Welcome bonus up to €250 + 200 free spins;
  8. Neon54 Casino - 100% Welcome bonus up to €500 + 100 CHF;
  9. Madnix Casino - 100% Welcome bonus up to €50 + 225 free spins;
  10. GratoWin Casino - 100% Welcome bonus up to €200 + €7 no deposit bonus.

Internet casinos in France

France takes both a liberal and conservative view of gambling, depending on how you look at it. Some forms of online gambling are legal in the country, and they are regulated by the French Gambling Authority. These forms of gambling include sports betting, horse racing betting, and poker. Considering that casino games in the form of slot machines and roulette are illegal. The government claims that these games are highly addictive and harmful to individuals.

French online casino bonuses are a great way to get started with playing casino games online. The best thing about these bonuses is that they come with no wagering requirements, so you can withdraw your winnings right away. There are also no deposit bonuses available, which allow you to start playing without having to put any money down. In addition, many French best online casino site offer reload bonuses, which give you a percentage off of your next deposit when you reload your account. These bonuses are a great way to build up your bankroll and improve your chances of winning. With so many different types of bonuses available, there's sure to be one that's perfect for you. So what are you waiting for? Start exploring the world of French online casino bonuses today!

Many people agree with the government's opinion, but those who disagree try to engage in gambling activities on foreign gambling sites, which technically does not violate French law.

Land-based gambling is also allowed in the country in many forms, and a large number of land-based casinos with hundreds of slot machines predominate.

This article will cover everything you need to know about the state of gambling in France, both online and offline. If you want to start gambling, take a look at our list of recommended French online betting sites that have been pre-approved by our own team of gambling experts.

What other types of casinos exist

  • Mobile Casinos;
  • Instant Play Casinos;
  • Download Casinos;
  • Crypto Casinos;
  • Live Casinos

Bonuses and promotions in French online casinos

Bonuses and game promotions are the main marketing tool at every online gambling establishment when it comes to attracting new customers. The French are no exception in the eyes of operators, which means that you can count on huge welcome bonuses to facilitate your new membership at any online casino. In addition, you can count on regular promotions in the form of free spins, bonus deposits, loyalty schemes and VIP programs.

Welcome Bonus

Most of the reliable online casino sites in France offer a sign-up bonus to any new player. Welcome bonus casinos will increase the amount of the first deposit made by the user. It can also consist of an offer of free spins valid on certain slot machines.

First Deposit Bonus

The casino's first deposit bonus is certainly the most practical because it allows you to discover the casino. Most often, it is a percentage of your deposit added to your balance. For example, if the promotion says 100% match bonus up to 200 euros and you deposit 100 euros, you will get an extra 100 euros. Thus, you will have €200 to play with.

No deposit bonus

The no deposit bonus is the most requested offer by French users. Of course, these free bonuses do not require a deposit in order to benefit from them. The operator will credit the player's account with money or free spins. The wagering on these bonuses is usually higher than other bonuses.

Free spins

Free spins are provided by the casino for new users, but they are quite scarce in France. Indeed, throughout your gaming experience at a virtual casino, you will be eligible for free spins that are valid on slot machines. Some French operators limit the promotion to certain slot machines, while others extend the free spins to all slot machines available on their interfaces.

All means are good to be able to take advantage of the extra real money to be able to play and especially win real money at the site of your choice! Thus, bonuses are an important criterion to consider when choosing your next gaming platform.

Popular promotions at French online casinos

Promotions are given to existing players to keep them playing. While there are many different types of promotions, French casino sites most often offer the following:

Cashback Bonuses

A cashback bonus is a real money-back bonus. The casino site in France transfers a portion of their lost bets to players' accounts. It's usually a percentage between winning and losing bets. Cashback usually ranges from 5% to 30%. This type of bonus is regularly found in VIP programs.

Free Play Time Bonus

As its name indicates, this is a bonus that is valid for a certain period of time. This promotion is in great demand among French players. It is part of the no deposit bonuses, so you won't be spending any real money. With this bonus, the casino allows you to test games for free while winning money. Keep in mind, however, that these bonuses are also subject to terms and conditions that are often stricter than those of the deposit bonus.

Best games and slots in French online casinos

The French have a long history of gambling, and the country's culture has influenced other countries as much as it has influenced other countries. This means that all types of games were historically popular throughout the country, and remain so today.

With the advent of online gambling, players can enjoy a variety of games such as:

  1. Poker;
  2. Video poker;
  3. Blackjack;
  4. Roulette;
  5. Baccarat;
  6. Craps gambling;
  7. Scratch cards;
  8. Keno;
  9. Lottery;
  10. Fruit slots;
  11. Slot machines.

Of course, casino gambling is not legal on French soil, but it can be used on foreign online gambling sites. Sports betting is also very popular in France, given the passion for sports such as soccer. Betting on racing is also important, from horse racing to greyhound racing to motorsports.

The most popular online casino games in France

Thanks to the Internet and IT technology, anyone can register on a virtual gaming site and play any game they like. In the following text you will discover the casino games that the French appreciate the most, as well as the different bonus modes to access them.

Slot Machines

French players, like players of other nationalities, love slots machines online. They have been around since 1894, and their ancestor was called Card Bell and had 3 reels. Nowadays they have changed a lot, both in terms of functionality and graphics. There are even regular and progressive jackpots, which can be found at the best French online casinos. They are so simple that they are accessible to everyone. Just spin the stick and hope the matching symbols line up to win.

Blackjack Game

The card game of blackjack, still known as 21, is popular in France. The goal of the game is to make a combination of cards whose value is as close to the number 21 as possible, but does not exceed it. Players compete with the dealer, and this game has become popularized in movies thanks to iconic movies.

Roulette Game

The roulette game was created in France by Blaise Pascal in the 18th century. It is found in several universes: television, literature, movies and, of course, online casinos. Ultra popular, there are several variants, grouped into two main categories: European and American. They differ in the arrangement of the boxes on the gaming table. Indeed, the European roulette has 36 boxes and only one for the zero (0), while the American version has 36 boxes and two for the zero (0 and 00). Despite the fact that they differ in layout, the rules of the game and betting remain the same. Naturally, the French prefer the European version.

Play the Odd

This card game used to be played as a priority by the elderly, and slightly less by young people. Nowadays, Rummy is the wonder of the game for casino operators in France. There are several variations, but they are based on the same principle: with a deck of 52 cards, two to four players compete to make combinations. Three or four cards of the same rank make up the combination.

Points are calculated according to the cards left in the hands of the different players. They are punished according to the value of the aforementioned cards, knowing that those with a face on them bring 10 points, and the other cards, except for the ace (1 point), bring 8 points. Players decide how many rounds and how many points to achieve.

Casino War

This game is one of the most profitable and exciting online casino games in France. If it is so popular, it is not only because of the simplicity of its rules, but also because the player has a better than 50% chance of winning than the dealer.

The principle is very simple. The card counting is the same as in poker, but the rules are clearer. At the beginning of the game, the player must bet between an ante (the value of his card will be higher than the dealer's) and an equal (the value of his card is equal to the dealer's). Once this is done, the dealer hands the player a card and places one in front of him. Each protagonist then flips his card, and the one with the higher value wins the game.

Game of Poker

To find the origins of poker, you have to go back 1,000 years to medieval times, to the game of dominoes practiced by the ancient Chinese in the 10th century. Others believe that poker is the successor to the Persian game of As Nas, or Poque, which was played by the French in the 17th century. Nevertheless, someone knew how to develop the game and give us such a beautiful and exciting version that it became a tournament and an international competition. The French are partial to it, which is why it is often played in casinos.

Game of Sense

Faroux is played with 52 cards. At the beginning of the game, the dealer flips two cards simultaneously, which are the losing and winning bets, respectively. If the Frenchman manages to bet on the dealt card 4 times (dead bet) and the dealer or player notices this bet, he wins.

Slots with the highest payout rates in France

Among the most profitable slot machines in France:

  • Goldilocks and the Wild Bears by Quickspin - 97.8%;
  • Rage to Riches by Play N' Go - 97.1%;
  • The SlotFather II by Betsoft - 96%.

In conclusion, you now have the tools to get an idea of the potential profitability of an online game in France thanks to the payout ratio. So don't save it and take a few minutes before you start checking this information. Chance does well when you know how to prepare for it!

How to play for free without making a compulsory deposit?

Almost every self-respecting online casino has a section with "Demo mode", a special trial mode, so that every user of the Internet institution could try different slots without having to deposit real money. Demo is a great way to choose from hundreds of available slots the one that you really like and work on it to develop their own strategy games.

Most gambling establishments offer 2 modes of play on their platforms: free or demo and real money. They operate on opposite principles. Indeed, the first mode is aimed at giving you pleasure without spending anything in monetary terms, as well as allowing you to learn the rules, strategies and techniques of the various games available. It is generally available without having to register or download any application, but in real money mode it is not.

Once this step is passed and players believe they have the necessary level to try to win money, they move on to real money mode, which obviously can lead to good jackpots, but also to more or less financial losses, depending on the stakes. Also keep in mind that these two modes are not available in all casinos; Hence the importance of making the right choice.

As in other countries, online casinos are very popular in France. While it is true that many games are in demand, the French have a particular preference for the ones mentioned in this article. They have a few things in common, such as the simplicity of their rules and their great appeal.

Mobile app casinos in France

Over the past few years, smartphones have had a significant impact on the online casino landscape, leading to the rise of mobile casinos as a preference over desktop and laptop gaming.

With smartphones embracing all areas of daily life, online casinos have quickly adapted, offering mobile-optimized websites for gambling enthusiasts on the go. Some betting sites also offer standalone apps for iOS and Android devices, while others can be accessed through your smartphone or tablet's web browser.

France has the 7th highest smartphone penetration rate in the world, as more than 76% of the country's population owns a smartphone. The most popular smartphone devices in France are mostly Apple products, with the iPhone 12, iPhone 11, iPhone XR, iPhone X and iPhone 7 Plus. In terms of Android, Samsung Galaxy devices are on the border with the S7, S8 and S9 models. The 4G network is widespread in many regions of France, boasting high upload/download speeds and stable connections that provide uninterrupted data on the go. This means that French gamers can easily enjoy mobile casinos on the go with virtually no problems or glitches in their gaming experience.

Our French casino reviews place a lot of emphasis on mobile support. A casino without mobile optimization is as good as dead in the water, as it risks losing most of its customers. Thus, all modern online casinos support mobile support, especially those catering to French players.

How do French online casinos work?

Anyone planning to play at a French online casino for real money will have to go through the usual process of verifying their account and their age. You must be at least eighteen years old to gamble in the country, as the government reduced the legal age for gambling from twenty-one years ago in 1989.

Once all the standard verification processes have been eliminated, the online casino participant will be able to make a deposit using one of the accepted banking methods.

The deposit made by the user will appear in their account, and they will be able to access and use the funds as needed. Setting limits when playing at French casinos is often a sensible move, as it will lead to a responsible approach.

How we choose the best French online casinos

The number of French betting sites and foreign online casino sites that accept French players is high, which can confuse newcomers and make their choices about where to play quite difficult. This is where we come in. Our reviews will help you by giving you all the information you need before deciding where to play.

Read on to learn more about our review process, where we highlight the most important factors we consider when determining the quality of an online casino. Of course, you can skip this reading and go on to our list of recommended French online casinos that have been thoroughly vetted and pre-approved by our dedicated team of online gambling experts.

Safety of French online casinos

French online betting sites licensed by the country's gambling agency, ARJEL, adhere to strict rules to ensure fair treatment of players, and safety and fair play are central to their rules and guidelines. The CSA (Independent Authority for the Protection of Freedom of Audiovisual Communication) and the ADLC (French Competition Authority) are also committed to protecting players' interests, which means that it is virtually impossible to cheat on a French online betting site, as the risks will be too high for operators, with little or no benefit on their part.

As for foreign betting sites welcoming French players, we are happy to report that many of them are licensed by reputable regulatory bodies such as the Isle of Man, Panama and the Malta Gaming Authority. Of course, our team of experts selects only the most reliable sites for betting so that you can gamble without problems, no matter which casino you choose.

Customer support at French online casinos

Customer support at a French online casino is of the utmost importance, as it is at any online casino. Fortunately, French players can expect top-notch customer support at most gaming operators, especially those recommended by our site. This means a professional and friendly chat room, usually available 24/7 - 7 days a week. In addition, you can also count on phone customer support, as well as email support channels with quick response times.

For the most efficient support service, it's best to contact live chat, as the response time is usually a few minutes, which means that your problem or question will be resolved as quickly as possible. Software providers and game selections for French players at online casinos that accept French players boast games from some of the most respected game providers in the industry:

  • NetEnt;
  • Microgaming;
  • Rabcat;
  • Thunderkick;
  • Yggdrasil;
  • Play N Go;
  • Quickspin and other providers.

That's why many casinos boast more than 1,000 high-quality games of all kinds. So you can expect almost limitless entertainment, variety and new game releases on a regular basis.

  1. Slot machines are by far the most popular type of game at online casinos. Some French online casinos have over 1,000+ slots, which means the possibility of hundreds of hours of high-quality entertainment and, most importantly, excellent potential for winning. Slots are usually divided into 3 categories: classic, video and progressive. The Classic slot is a three-reel slot machine that will take you back to a time when these games were dominant. Video slots are the modern evolution of the slot machine and boast better graphics, themes and bonus features, while Progressive Jackpot slots can reward you with millions of euros per spin.
  2. Table games such as blackjack, roulette, blackjack and poker are widely available in every French online casino. What's more, in addition to the basic variations of these games, online casinos also have dozens of unique options that will add a twist to your gaming experience.
  3. Live Casino Foreign online casinos based on Evolution Gaming offer the French a thrilling gaming experience at live dealer tables that is unparalleled in the online world. These games run on HD streams, have many unique betting options, dozens of innovative table games, and the ability to interact with dealers in real time. A must try for any gambling enthusiast.

Popular payment methods in French online casinos

There are many payment options for online casinos in France. There are four main categories.

  1. Bank transfers - direct or credit/debit cards;
  2. Electronic wallets, such as PayPal and Skrill;
  3. Prepaid cards such as Paysafecard;
  4. And cryptocurrencies, though on special occasions.

Many French players do not trust online casinos because their payment methods are too complicated to understand when you know little about them. Consequently, bank transfers are the best known payment methods for casinos in the country because of their simplicity and lack of intermediaries. But the new online payment methods offer much more. Below are the most common in France.

  • Credit and debit cards - To play web casino games, you must have funds in your account. In order to do this, you need to make a transfer. The most popular way to do this is with a bank card. This can be a Visa or Mastercard. The advantage of this type of card is its greater flexibility compared to other cards such as the basic Casino Deposit American Express or Diners Club card.
  • PayPal - is a major alternative to credit cards. The benefits of this payment method are numerous. The two main strengths of this online casino PayPal solution are its ease of use and impeccable exchange security. This payment solution offered in France differs in that it is not offered everywhere.
  • Skrill - Register for free with this wallet! It is a completely safe, secure and confidential payment method for depositing and withdrawing money online in France. Exchanges, with the exception of the first transaction where checks are performed, turn out to be very fast. Keep in mind, however, that fees may apply.
  • Paysafecard - Moreover, thanks to Paysafecard you can play online completely safely and anonymously. This is the ideal payment option for playing online. To use this solution, you must enter the digits of a prepaid coupon code. You will purchase the latter in advance. After that, your funds will be credited to your account. However, it is not possible to withdraw funds with this payment method.
  • WebMoney - This is a virtual portfolio that offers several functions and offers the ability to make payments online. However, this portal is not only dedicated to this. Indeed, users in France can take advantage of many financial services. As for online transactions, keep in mind that this option offers various electronic portfolios that can be used in many currencies.
  • Neosurf is a cheaper and easier option. It allows you to instantly pay, send, and withdraw money online. The main advantages of this payment method on casino sites in France are flexibility and speed. Thus, this virtual card is particularly ideal with regard to online gambling.

Each online casino in France has its own deposit and withdrawal policy. Thus, not all establishments offer the same payment options. This is why we recommend that you check the payment methods offered before playing, as you will not be able to deposit with all the existing payment solutions on the market!

Description of payment methods, deposit and withdrawal limits

Payment method Operators Min. deposit amount Min. withdrawal amount
Banking transfer Any land bank and Interac €50 €100
Electronic Wallet Paypal, Paylib, Skrill, Neteller, ClickandBuy, Ecopayz, Entropay and MuchBetter €10 €20
Bank cards Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Bancontact, etc. €10 €20
Prepaid ticket Neosurf, Paysafecard and Cashlib €10 -
Cryptocurrency Bitcoin, Litecoin, Etherium, Ripple, etc. Depends on cryptocurrency Depends on cryptocurrency

What is the best payment method for French players?

When gambling at casino sites in France, credit cards are most often used because of their ease of use and good limits. On the other hand, those who want to try their luck outside of France should definitely use e-wallets, which are used in Paypal casinos, as they provide complete anonymity and security. Cryptocurrencies are also good, although many do not want to play with them because their value is skyrocketing.

Guide to online casinos for French players

Due to the 2010 legislation banning gambling at French online casinos, you need to make sure that the casino you choose is legal and licensed. If you are interested in online poker or sports betting, both are legal in France. If you are interested in more traditional gambling, you need to make sure that the online casino operator is licensed by the regulator.

Check the security measures used by the casino to make sure your money is safe. One of the most important security provisions is encryption. Reliable online casinos offer financial service providers to ensure that your banking information and financial data is protected and that any vulnerabilities used by hackers are eliminated.

You are assured that your personal information is completely private and will not be shared with third parties. After making sure that the online casino takes care of all the legal aspects as well as the security and safety aspects, you can have some fun looking through the casino's website. Take a close look at the types and number of games that the casino offers. Look for the games you like best, such as French roulette or any new and interesting games.

Familiarize yourself with the variety of games offered, such as poker, blackjack, roulette and slot machines. If the online casino is not in France, you can legally play all these games. While most online casinos offer mobile technology, make sure you can use your favorite mobile device or tablet to play at your convenience. We recommend carefully reviewing your customer service options.

Make sure the casino has options for other languages if you don't speak the local language. Payment options are just as important as the language. You need to find an online casino that accepts euros or your local currency. Look at the promotions and bonuses offered, such as the welcome bonus. If you like what you see, check the terms and conditions to make sure you are eligible to play in your country.

The choice of games depends on the specific region. To stay within the law, only certain options may be available. The most popular games in France nowadays are slot machines, roulette and blackjack. You can also find many different options for each game to get even more options. Depending on what the casino has to offer, you can play some or all of the following games.

  • Slots;
  • Caribbean Stud poker;
  • Craps;
  • 3-card poker;
  • Keno;
  • Baccarat;
  • Video poker;
  • Scratch cards;
  • Black Jack;
  • Sic Bo;
  • Roulette;
  • Casino Hold'em.

French gambling slang

The most common French slang for gambling includes:

  • Ace - in a standard 52-card deck, this is the highest paying card;
  • Ace Adjustment - the player reduces or increases the bet depending on the number of aces in the deck;
  • Ace Five Count - a card counting strategy that takes into account only fives and aces;
  • Ace Neutral Count - a card counting system in which an ace is 0 or not counted at all;
  • Ace Poor - a deck that contains fewer aces than the normal statistic;
  • Ace Rich - a deck that contains more aces than the statistic;
  • Ace Side Count - a count of aces that have left the game;
  • Action - the sum of one or more bets made during a certain period of time;
  • Anchorman - a player sitting to the right of the dealer;
  • Back Counting - the counting of cards by spectators;
  • Balanced Counting - A card-counting strategy in which the sum of all cards is 0 and the cards are evaluated as minus or plus;
  • Bankroll - A player's total budget;
  • Bankroll Management - A type of game strategy or system, which allows you to intelligently manage your bankroll;
  • Basic Strategy - the best strategy for playing blackjack without counting cards;
  • Big Player - a blackjack leader who bets big when the card count is favorable;
  • Blackjack - when a hand consists of only two cards and is valued at 21 points. Blackjack is both the goal and the name of the game;
  • Blackjack Tournament - a competitive game, a competition between blackjack players over a fixed period of time where only one player will emerge victorious;
  • Burn Cards - The top cards of a deck, which are removed after shuffling and do not participate in the game;
  • Bust - when a player scores more than 21 points. Otherwise called "Break";
  • Card Counter - a player counting which cards are out and which cards are still in play to gain an advantage over the casino;
  • Card Counting - remembering the cards that are out and remain in play in order to gain an advantage over the casino;
  • Camouflage - any tactic that helps to hide gambling techniques from the casino. Such as, for example, counting cards;
  • Chips - special tokens used in casinos instead of money;
  • Cut - dividing the cards of a deck after shuffling, but before the first deal, to make it harder to count cards;
  • Cut Card - A plastic card used to divide a deck;
  • Dealer - A person who manages the game and competes with players on behalf of the casino;
  • Deck - a traditional 52-card deck used to play blackjack.

Are casinos legal in France?

French online casinos are not legal in France. More precisely, casino games such as roulette and slot machines cannot be included in French online betting sites, while online poker, horse racing and sports betting are completely legal and operators can purchase online betting licenses to serve customers. When it comes to online gambling, the country made several advances in the 00s. Namely, in 2006, the French government requisitioned the French government to amend Internet gambling laws because they did not comply with EU laws, criticizing some factors of the French gambling laws:

  • Extremely high taxes;
  • Unfavorable payout rates;
  • Strict requirements;
  • Limited scope of gambling services.

In 2010, the French government introduced the French Gambling Act, which came into force on May 13 of that year. This move liberalized the French online gambling market and opened up the possibility for foreign companies to purchase 3 types of gambling licenses:

  • TXS Hold'em Online Poker, Omaha Poker;
  • Online pool racing betting;
  • Online sports betting with fixed odds in the game.

Casino games were not legalized under this law because the government deemed them too addictive and harmful to people. This means that online slots and roulette table games are banned on French online gambling sites. Considering that games like poker are considered a game of skill in which the player has enough control over the outcome to make it legal to play and participate online. The bottom line is that in terms of online gambling, the French don't have many options other than to resort to offshore online casinos. It's not exactly legal, but French law does not prohibit French residents from participating in online betting at casinos and sportsbooks located outside of France.

The problem comes from the French government, which strictly pursues foreign operators who seek to offer services to the French player. Thus, the number of foreign online casinos that accept French players is limited, and for a long time reliable casino games may still not be available to the French for a significant future. Nevertheless, things are not so bad for French gambling enthusiasts. There are still dozens of reputable online casinos that accept French players, and we make sure to post them on our website, backed by thorough reviews from our team of experts, so you know exactly what you can expect.

Is gambling legal in France?

The legal status of gambling in France is different from most other countries. To begin with, the minimum age for gambling in French casinos was lowered to 18 from 21. Slot machines were banned until 1987. In 2005, the European Commission took the first steps necessary to legalize remote gambling. It was then that the first studies of the French gambling market were carried out.

A notification was issued by the European Commission in 2006, and the last request was made in 2007. The Commission wanted the current law to be amended so that everything would comply with the laws of the European Union. The end result was a bill introduced by the French government in 2009. This law opened part of the French gambling market to operators located in other countries of the European Union.

Regulatory Authority L’Autorité nationale des jeux
Licenses and certification Issued separately for online betting, land-based betting, land-based casinos, poker, horse racing, slot machines
Legislative documents Gambling Law 2010, The Security Code and the Autorité de Régulation des Jeux en Ligne (ARJEL) regulations
Land-based casinos
  • Authorized by amendments to The Security Code of May 1, 2012.
  • Automated machines, roulette and blackjack are regulated separately
Online casino Permitted by the Autorité de Régulation des Jeux en Ligne (ARJEL)
Betting on horse racing and sports Pari-mutuel urbain "PMU" allowed
Software development for land-based and online casinos Allowed
Lotteries Permitted Française des jeux "FDJ" - state monopoly
Bingo Permitted Française des jeux "FDJ" - state monopoly
Taxes
  1. Online poker - 40.8%;
  2. Sports betting - 44.5%;
  3. Horse racing - 37.7%;
  4. Bookmakers - 55.2%.

Currently, some types of gambling are allowed in France, while others are not. Online poker, horse racing and sports betting are legal. Traditional casino games, including table games, slot machines and roulette, are illegal because French politicians believe such games are too addictive. None of the French online gambling sites offer traditional casino games.

Who regulates gambling in France?

The two key bodies responsible for regulating gambling in France are the Francaise des Jeux or FDJ and the Pari Mutuel Urbain or PMU. The FDJ is responsible for lotteries and betting games. PMU deals with horse racing. Both agencies are owned by the state. Internet gambling was not legalized in France until 2010. On May 1, 2012, the National Security Code went into effect.

The National Security Code is responsible for the authorization and regulation of games taking place throughout the following.

  • At sea;
  • At climatic and thermal resorts;
  • Cities are considered tourist resorts, with the exception of Paris;
  • French-flag cruise ships.

Some houses and gambling clubs offer gambling and card games, provided they have permission from the Minister of the Interior. The government has approved a law creating a national lottery. France has a legal monopoly on the national lottery, which is run by La Francaise des Jeux. La Francaise des Jeux is also authorized to conduct sports games and sports betting.

Combined betting is available through officially authorized horse racing companies. Race betting can be organized under the PMU or Pari Mutuel Urbain consortium. Combined bets may be offered by authorized greyhound racing companies, provided they are organized by the company. Gambling is defined by the National Security Code as a game involving only publicly available online communication services.

Regulatory Authority and French Legislation

The regulatory authority is L'Autorité nationale des jeuxes (l'ANJ, ANJ). Gambling licenses are issued by the Autorité de Régulation des Jeux en Ligne (ARJEL).

The organization regulates in France:

  • Online sphere - sports betting, horse racing, poker tournaments and other types of gambling entertainment;
  • 236 types of horse racing and racing - horses, dogs;
  • 202 land-based casinos.

The body monitors, controls online and land-based gambling establishments in France: approves their operation, helps fight fraud. Its staff protects the interests and rights of minors and prevents gambling addiction.

Licenses for online casinos in France

From 1836 until 2010, gambling entertainment was considered part of the state monopoly. Then the French online market (initiated by the European Community) was opened to competition in the field of gambling entertainment. European legislation specifies that the online gaming niche should consist of sports betting, horse racing, and clubbing entertainment.

Virtual casinos in France can offer visitors sports betting, horse racing and lotteries. The licensing of virtual establishments is regulated by regulations of the Autorité de Régulation des Jeux en Ligne and the Minister of Finance.

The decree opens the French market to gambling sites authorized by Malta. The website has contacts of intermediaries for authorized gaming.

Licenses for land-based casinos and horse racing, race betting, sports, social lotteries

Not all land-based gambling is allowed in France.

  • Casino games: slot machines, table roulette, blackjack - Prohibited;
  • Poker - Permitted by ARJEL regulations;
  • Betting on computer games, stock fluctuations - Prohibited;
  • Lotteries - Permitted by regulations of the Secretary of the Budget and Secretary of the Interior;
  • Social games without winning money - Permitted by the French Consumer Code;
  • Games of skill and competition - Permitted by ARJEL regulations;
  • Betting on specific sports and horse racing - Permitted by ARJEL regulations;
  • Betting - Permitted;
  • Bingo - Permitted by regulations of the Secretary of the Treasury and Secretary of the Interior.

Measures to protect players' rights when using banned games

Treasury Department regulations prohibit casinos from installing software with slot machines, roulette, blackjack or card games.

The legislation includes a provision to prevent money laundering and terrorist financing. Software operators must:

  • Identify suspected terrorists;
  • Maintain internal controls over their activities;
  • Appoint persons responsible for reporting suspicious transactions;
  • Inform the authorities of any threat.

The public policy on gambling entertainment is to regulate and control the consumption of gambling software. The aim is to limit minors' access to gambling and to prevent the development of addiction to it among the population.

By the decision of the criminal court people with addiction can be forbidden to visit gambling houses for 3 years. Their parents or guardians, representatives of casinos in France, are responsible for minors. They are criminally liable, but often administratively liable.

There are procedures of self-exclusion and self-exclusion for gamers. For self-exclusion, the player must apply to the Ministry of the Interior.

The Commission advises players to limit their bets and deposits to the available funds, not using credits.

Tax rates and penalties

A casino in France is defined as an establishment that necessarily combines three activities: entertainment, catering, and gaming. Gambling is considered a "fortuitous contract" whereby each party agrees to benefit or suffer loss depending on a certain event (Article 1108 of the Civil Code).

The basic law - The Security Code - says that any lotteries are prohibited in France (article L322-1). The lottery in the interpretation of the document is "a transaction which is offered to the public under any name. The benefit of its result is appropriated by one or more persons" (L322-2 The Security Code).

But there are conditions that make the organization of gambling entertainment possible:

  • A public offer;
  • Compressed deadlines;
  • Winning for only one participant;
  • Mandatory cash wager, except for charity raffles.

The Security Code states that the game should not be based on "Good Luck" alone. A participant's luck should not prevail over skill, intelligence and courage. Outside interference must be completely eliminated.

On 17.03.2014 the law was amended. They stipulate that sales, various services and transactions in which there is an expected financial gain (large winnings) for the organizer or participant are qualified as a lottery and are therefore prohibited.

French law does not tax profits derived from gambling. According to the law, it is not a profitable occupation and not a source of earnings. That's why only money is paid to the treasury:

  • Professional poker players, the law does not consider it a game of pure chance;
  • Operators of online and land-based casinos in France;
  • Software providers.

Articles No. 2019-486 of the PACTE Action Plan for Business Growth and Transformation law establish that land-based and online operators, lotteries in France are taxed based on actual turnover, calculated as the difference between bets and gains. One has to pay:

  1. From online poker - 40.8%;
  2. From online and land-based sports betting - 44.5%;
  3. from horse racing - 37.7%;
  4. from bookmakers' offices - 55.2%.

Online gambling operators are subject to a special tax rate based on player spending. This tax does not apply to land-based gambling establishments.

A little about the beautiful France

France - an amazing and magical country, attracting millions of tourists from around the globe to its abode. And indeed, there is something to see, where to relax and have a lot of unforgettable impressions. The French gave us the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral, works of great poets and writers, perfumes and haute couture, movies and impressionist art, Braille and balloons.

There is an opinion that outside Paris, France is just beginning. It lives its life in small villages, in the cold rooms of medieval castles, in the bright sun of the Riviera and in the fragrant fields of lavender. France is where the battles for the Pyrenees were fought and where the cold Atlantic Ocean beats against the rocks of the bastions. France is sweet grapes, slippery oysters, moldy cheese and lingering Calvados. The cold slopes of the Alps, the desert in the Pile, goose farms and film festivals are all, different faces of the same country.

France is deservedly considered a trendsetter of high fashion. It was French couturiers who created the closet elements we love so much: the little black dress and chain clutch by Coco Chanel, the fuchsia color by Elsa Schiaparelli, women's pantsuit and unisex clothing by Yves Saint Laurent, stocking boots and mini dress by Pierre Cardin and much more.

There's a pattern in this country: whichever way you go, once you land at Charles de Gaulle airport, you'll always find good wine, ancient castles, delicious food and gorgeous scenery. And if Dumas, Remarque, Stendhal, Hugo and Hemingway made France the hero of their own works, it would be a mistake for us not to try to love it as it is. And she is, believe me, beautiful, romantic and tolerant. It's impossible not to fall in love with her, and it's better to list all her virtues - it's better to see and feel everything yourself.

General information about France

  • Capital city: Paris;
  • Population: 65 060 692 people;
  • Official language: French;
  • Currency: Euro, French franc.

Information on the geography and demography of France

The French Republic is the largest transnational state, the third largest country in Europe (after Russia and Ukraine). Its total area is 675,417 km². France is also the third largest maritime country in the world, after the United States and the United Kingdom.

The neighboring countries are 11 states. In Europe it has borders with Spain, Belgium, Switzerland, Italy, Germany, Luxemburg, Andorra and Monaco; in overseas territories with Brazil, Suriname and the Netherlands Antilles. At sea - with Great Britain. The shores of France are washed by the Atlantic, Mediterranean and North Seas, and the English Channel. On the border between France and Italy is the highest point in Europe (excluding the Caucasus Mountains), known to every mountaineer and skier - the snow-white mountain Mont Blanc. It is located in the Western Alps, and its height - 4810 meters.

Regions of France

According to the territorial reform, since January 1, 2016, France is divided into 18 regions: 13 in the metropolis and 5 in the overseas territories (Guadeloupe, Guiana, Martinique, Réunion, Mayotte). Each region is divided into departments whose administrative centers are called prefectures. These, in turn, are divided into districts and cantons. The basis of the territorial government in France are communes, of which there are more than 36 thousand.

History of Gambling in France

Gambling in France has a rich history, and many of the games we know today, at least in one of their forms, were invented in the country. In particular, the roulette wheel was invented in the 17th century by Blaise Pascal, a prominent French mathematician of the time. Even to this day, roulette is divided into 3 variants: French, American and European. France is also the origin of parimutuel betting, which was said to have been invented in the late 18th century. Blackjack is also said to have originated in France in the 18th century under the name "chemin de fer".

The country has always had a more lenient approach to gambling in terms of legislation, as gambling has had legal status since the late 20th century. Gambling has had legal status in France since the late 20th century. In 1987, the minimum age for gambling was lowered from 18 to 18. A year later slot machines were officially allowed in the country. Land-based casinos are completely legal in France, and can be found in large numbers, widespread throughout the country.

Some of the most popular land-based casinos are Le Lyon Vert Casino, Deauville Casino and Barriere Enghien-Les-Bains Casino. These bricks and mortar establishments host many table games and hundreds of slot machines. They are also paired with luxury hotels, restaurants and nightclubs.

Exciting Land-based Casinos in France

Here you'll find all the land-based casinos in France that you can visit and play roulette, slots and cards.

  1. Casino de Castera Verduzan;
  2. Casino Pleinair de La Ciotat;
  3. Casino Barriere La Rochelle;
  4. Casino Nice Palais de la Mediterranee;
  5. Casino Tranchant de Saint-Gervais;
  6. Casino Barriere Cannes Le Croisette;
  7. Le casino JOA de Luxeuil;
  8. Casino de Vannes;
  9. Casino de Calais;
  10. Casino Barriere Sainte-Maxime;
  11. Casino JOA de St-Paul-les-Dax;
  12. Casino de Saint Brevin l'ocean;
  13. Casino de Saint-Galmier;
  14. Casino Tranchant de Bagneres;
  15. Le casino JOA de Besancon;
  16. Nouveau Casino Aix-les-Bains.

Popular slot machines in France

List of live casinos where you can play slots, electronic roulette, and bet on sports.

Casino name Location
Casino de Saint-Trojan Saint-Trojan-les-Bains, France
Casino On Alet les Bains Alet-les-Bains, France
Casino les 4 Chemins Vichy, France
Casino de Hauteville Barbois, France
Casino de Lacaune Lacaune, France
Casino de St-Denis Saint-Denis, France
Casino du Sud Saint Pierre, France
Palladium Menen Halluin, France
Palladium Ploegsteert Armentières, France
Napoleon Games Nechin Toufflers, France
Circus Casino Couvin Gué-d'Hossus, France
Casino de Villard de Lans La Molière, France

The life of modern casinos in France

In modern France there are about 150 gambling clubs. The policy of the country still strictly controls the gambling business and does not allow it to develop according to its own scenario. To open a casino in France an entrepreneur must submit a request to the National Gambling Commission. The committee consists of 14 high-ranking government officials and five employees of the Ministry of the Interior. If the application passes approval, a special license is issued for a period of 5 years. All the best casinos in France go through this procedure.

But not all gambling clubs can get a license. Appropriate permits are issued only in so-called resort towns. In all other settlements it is forbidden to open a casino in France.

At the head of any approved casino must be a director with the appropriate social status. Under his command must work with at least four qualified employees. All employees are checked and approved by the Ministry of the Interior.

FAQs About the best online casinos in France 2025

✅ Are online casinos legal in France?

Yes. Online casinos with the appropriate licenses are legal and players can spend their money and play at them. However, all online gaming platforms must comply with the rules set by ARJEL. If not, the casino is not legal and players should avoid playing games there.

✅ What can I play at a French casino?

Players have access to a variety of casino games in France. Classic games such as poker are available, as well as craps and baccarat. As you'd expect, leading game developers from around the world are involved in creating content for French casinos, so they're always of high quality.

✅ Can French players gamble online?

French players can gamble online on sites approved by ARJEL. If the platform does not have the necessary license, it is best avoided, as personal and financial information could be at risk. Therefore, it makes sense for games to be played at online casinos that follow the rules and regulations to the letter.

✅ How old do I need to be to play?

Gamers in the online world can play at online casinos from the age of eighteen. The age when people could start gambling in France was twenty-one, but that changed in 1989. Online casinos in France are strict when players are at least eighteen years old.

✅ Are French gambling sites legal?

French gambling sites are legal if they follow the rules set by ARJEL. ARJEL controls online gambling, and a platform that violates their rules or does not have the necessary license is illegal and unsafe to play.

✅ How long will it be before I get my winnings?

This will depend solely on your choice of casino and bank. Some casinos offer instant payouts, some require at least 24 hours. The fastest banking options are e-wallets, which are usually instant, while credit cards are a bit behind in speed.

✅ Are sports betting safe in France?

Sports betting is legal in France and therefore safe when done in the respective casinos or betting sites.

✅ Are there free spins at French online casinos?

Some casino sites in France offer free spins as part of bonuses and promotions, although this is not common.

✅ What is gambling addiction?

It is a person's inability to control gambling activities despite its negative consequences. A ludomaniac cannot limit himself in visiting the site and damages his social, family, professional life.

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