The UK Gambling Commission and online casinos
The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) regulates commercial gambling across Great Britain. Businesses offering online casino services to consumers in Great Britain require appropriate licensing. A licence granted in another country is not a substitute for UKGC authorisation.
Check an operator step by step
- Find the legal company name and licence information in the casino's footer or legal pages.
- Open the official business register.
- Search the business or trading name, and check the associated domain and licence status.
- Check whether the operator has published complaint and dispute-resolution procedures.
| Requirement | What readers should know |
|---|---|
| Minimum gambling age | Online casino gambling is for adults aged 18+. |
| Licence check | Match the operator and domain using the UKGC public register. |
| Bonus terms | GB licensees have a maximum 10× wagering requirement on incentives from 19 January 2026. |
| Mixed-product promotions | GB licensees cannot combine different types of gambling product within a single incentive. |
| Customer verification | Age and identity verification rules apply to licensed gambling businesses. |
| Disputes | Use the operator's complaints process and any applicable independent dispute route. |
What is the difference between UK-licensed and offshore casinos?
Offshore operators may be licensed or based elsewhere, but this does not prove they may lawfully serve consumers in Great Britain. Consumer protections, dispute options, account safeguards and promotion rules may differ. The appearance of a brand in a directory is not proof of its current UK licensing status.
Primary references
This page offers general information, not legal advice. Last reviewed: 4 November 2026.