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Portuguese online casinos for Real Money

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Portugal Casino Guide

Getting Started

Portugal is an EU member, and as a member of the European Union, there is certain legislation that the country should adhere to when it comes to gambling. Portugal naturally plays ball, and the country is one of the more open EU member states when it comes to betting. What does this mean for Portuguese bettors, though?

Join us as our team explores the gambling regulations of Portugal and its laws and showcases just what a Portuguese online casino should offer its members. Let’s start by quickly browsing the primary gambling laws in place in the EU’s westernmost country.

Portugal’s Gambling Laws and Regulations

Portugal’s very first gambling law goes back to 2016. Known as Decree-Law 422/89, the Legal Regime for the Operation of Games of Chance in Casinos bill stated that the Portuguese National Lottery had a monopoly on gambling games, with Casino Estoril being the very first venue to offer gambling games. Of course, things are a little different nowadays.

Games of chance are legal in Portugal in brick-and-mortar venues. However, they are restricted to ten locations, ranging from the Azores to the Algarve, Estoril, and Porto Santo to Funchal and beyond. Lottery games are now the monopoly of Santa Casa de Misericórdia de Lisboa, or the SCML, for short. However, there don’t appear to be as many limitations when it comes to brick-and-mortar casinos.

What about online gambling, then? While online lotto games became legal in 2000, it wasn’t until 2015 that online casino games were legalised. Law 66/2015 makes it clear that any operator can apply for a license to offer their services to Portuguese players. However, the high tax rates often see providers look elsewhere. Almost half of the Portuguese players turn to offshore casinos, and they are allowed to do so (technically). Let’s look more at that in the next section.

Who Regulates and Licenses Portuguese Casino Sites?

It is the Serviço de Regulação e Inspeção de Jogos do Turismo de Portugal, or SRIJ, that has jurisdiction over licensing and regulation in Portugal. This authority approves online and land-based gambling licenses. Any operator can theoretically apply for a license. However, as mentioned, high taxes tend to put some providers off.

As many as half the population tend to play at offshore casinos. The Portuguese authorities cannot punish players for doing this. However, the gambling authorities aren’t totally powerless. They do have the authority to demand that ISPs (internet service providers) block access to foreign sites. There aren’t a great number of them on Portugal’s blacklist, but that remains an option if they wish to take it.

Portuguese players must be aged 18 or older and based in Portugal to play any licensed gambling games in the country. Some offshore casinos (which, as mentioned, are open to Portuguese players) may require you to be 20 or even 21, but this is rare.

Portugal’s Most Popular Gambling Games

Portuguese players don’t really have a preference when it comes to betting online. There are those who are quite happy to throw down on sports bets, while you will also find a good number of players who don’t mind betting on slots, table games, poker and, of course, lottery games. In fact, lotto games are notably popular in Portugal, as is bingo. Moreover, thanks to a large population of Brazilian gamblers overseas a good number of live dealer games can also be played in Portuguese.

We haven’t come across any major software providers that come from Portugal. However, you needn’t worry about that if you want to bet online. Both Portuguese online casinos and offshore casino sites tend to feature largely the same providers – a decent array of major and top-tier game developers found at most other sites. Portugal uses the euro currency, so you should have no difficulty wagering on any of these games.

Who Can Play?

Portuguese casinos are supposed to be reserved for Portuguese players. At least, the ones that are licensed out of Portugal are. However, not all the Portuguese sites we’ve come across stick to this. These are exactly the types of casinos and sportsbooks that will support the Portuguese language and euro currency. They will also offer live dealer games that can be played in Portuguese.

To be fair, you can also come across Portuguese offered as a language at many top sites, predominantly because of a large Brazilian audience. The use of the euro is made easy at offshore casinos because so many other countries use the currency. Offshore sites catering to Portuguese players are technically open to anyone, though. You don’t have to reside in Portugal or be a national to play there.

Online Casino Payment Options

In Portugal, there are several payment methods that cater specifically to players in the country. These methods can be categorized into credit/debit cards, e-wallets, bank transfers, and cryptocurrencies. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the common options:

Credit/Debit Cards:

  • Multibanco: Multibanco is a popular interbank network in Portugal that allows users to perform various financial transactions, including making online payments at casinos. Players can use their Multibanco cards to deposit and withdraw money from their online casino accounts. Multibanco is widely accepted by Portuguese online casinos and is known for its security and efficiency.
  • Visa/Mastercard: Although not exclusive to Portugal, Visa and Mastercard are widely used credit/debit card options for online casino transactions in the country. Most online casinos in Portugal accept these cards for deposits and withdrawals. They offer a secure, fast, and convenient way to transfer funds to and from casino accounts.

E-Wallets:

  • MB WAY: MB WAY is a mobile app developed by the Multibanco network that enables users to make payments, transfers, and withdrawals using their smartphones. It is a popular choice among Portuguese online casino players due to its convenience, security, and widespread acceptance in the country.
  • PayPal: PayPal is another popular e-wallet option in Portugal, allowing players to deposit and withdraw funds at online casinos. With its reputation for secure and quick transactions, it is a preferred choice for many Portuguese players. While not exclusive to Portugal, it is widely used in the country.

Bank Transfers:

  • SEPA: The Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA) allows users to make euro-denominated bank transfers within Europe, including Portugal. Many online casinos in Portugal accept SEPA transfers, making it a convenient option for players who prefer to use their bank accounts for casino transactions.

Cryptocurrencies:

  • Bitcoin: Bitcoin is a popular cryptocurrency that is accepted by some online casinos in Portugal. It allows for anonymous, fast, and secure transactions, making it an appealing choice for players who value privacy and security.
  • Ethereum: Ethereum is another widely-used cryptocurrency that is accepted at select online casinos in Portugal. Similar to Bitcoin, Ethereum transactions are secure and fast, providing a convenient alternative for players who prefer to use cryptocurrencies.

These payment methods are widely accepted and considered legal in Portugal, offering players various options for funding their online casino accounts. Each method has its benefits and drawbacks, so players can choose the one that best suits their needs and preferences.

Casinos by Category

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Recently added casinos that accept players from PT.

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New Online Slots Portugal

We show only games that allow real money betting from Portugal.

F.A.Q's

1. Is online gambling legal in Portugal?

Yes, online gambling is legal in Portugal. The country has a regulated online gambling market, and operators must obtain a license from the Serviço de Regulação e Inspeção de Jogos (SRIJ) to offer their services to Portuguese players. For more information about licensing and regulation in Portugal, please visit our Licensing and Regulation guide category.

2. What types of online casino games are popular in Portugal?

Portuguese players enjoy a wide range of online casino games, including slots, roulette, blackjack, video poker, baccarat, and live dealer games. To learn more about these games and their specific requirements, please explore our Casino Games & Requirements guide category.

3. Can I play online casino games for free in Portugal?

Yes, many online casinos offer free play or demo versions of their games for players to try before playing for real money. This is a great way to practice and learn the game rules without risking your own funds. Visit our Online Casino Games page to explore the available options.

4. What payment methods are available for Portuguese players?

Portuguese players can choose from a variety of payment methods to deposit and withdraw funds at online casinos, including credit/debit cards, bank transfers, e-wallets, and cryptocurrencies. For more information on available payment methods and their respective fees, visit our Payment Methods page.

5. Are online casinos in Portugal safe and secure?

Licensed online casinos in Portugal are required to adhere to strict safety and security measures to protect players’ personal and financial information. To learn more about these measures and how to identify a secure online casino, visit our Safety and Security guide category.

6. Are bonuses and promotions available for Portuguese players?

Yes, Portuguese players can take advantage of various bonuses and promotions offered by online casinos, including welcome bonuses, deposit bonuses, and loyalty programs. To learn more about these offers and how to maximize their benefits, visit our Bonuses and Loyalty Programs guide category.

7. Can I gamble on my mobile device in Portugal?

Yes, many online casinos in Portugal offer mobile-friendly platforms or dedicated apps, allowing players to enjoy their favorite games on smartphones and tablets. For more information about mobile gaming, check out our Mobile Gaming guide category.

8. How do I get help if I encounter a problem at an online casino in Portugal?

Most online casinos in Portugal offer customer support through various channels, such as live chat, email, and phone. To learn more about how to effectively communicate with customer support and resolve issues, visit our Customer Support guide category.

9. What responsible gambling resources are available for Portuguese players?

Portugal has several resources to promote responsible gambling and help players who may be struggling with problem gambling. For information on responsible gambling principles and available support options, visit our Responsible Gambling Principles and Problem Gambling guide categories.

10. Are there any online gambling restrictions or self-exclusion options in Portugal?

Yes, Portuguese players can request self-exclusion from online gambling activities, either through the online casino or the SRIJ. For more information on self-exclusion and other responsible gambling practices, please refer to our Smart Gambling Practices guide category.

2023-2024 Online Gambling News & Updates in Portugal

In 2024, the online gambling scene in Portugal has continued to evolve rapidly, marking significant milestones and setting new records. The country has seen a robust growth trajectory, driven by increased participation in both casino games and sports betting.

Growth and Revenue

The online gambling market in Portugal recorded a remarkable growth, with the fourth quarter of 2023 achieving a record-breaking revenue of €227.4 million. This marked the sixth consecutive quarter of growth, highlighting the sector’s expanding footprint. Notably, the third quarter saw revenues of €215.3 million, maintaining a strong upward trend. This growth has been attributed to a substantial increase in bets on games of chance, which soared by 47.2% compared to the same period in 2022. Bets on machine games alone represented a significant portion, accounting for 82.3% of total bets on online games of chance.

Player Demographics and Behavior

The demographics of online gamblers in Portugal show a youthful trend, with 81.6% of new registrations being individuals under the age of 45. Among these, a significant 32.5% were aged between 18 and 24, indicating a younger audience gravitating towards online gambling platforms. Geographically, the districts of Porto and Lisbon have the highest concentration of players, collectively accounting for over 40% of the total registered players.

Regulatory Landscape

Portugal’s regulatory framework for online gambling is stringent, designed to ensure fair play and consumer protection. The Serviço Regulação e Inspeção de Jogos do Turismo de Portugal (SRIJ) oversees licensing and compliance. The regulatory environment has seen updates to accommodate new forms of gambling, such as the introduction of the “EuroMillions” and the legalization of fixed-odds sports betting. The legal regime established in 2015 continues to adapt, with regular notifications sent to illegal operators to cease operations, maintaining the integrity of the market.

Market Trends

Technological advancements are reshaping the online gambling landscape. Mobile gaming, for instance, has become the norm, allowing players to access games anytime and anywhere. Additionally, the rise of cryptocurrencies is notable, with Bitcoin casinos gaining popularity due to their promise of anonymity and faster transactions. Another innovative trend is the emergence of Sweepstakes Casinos, which operate in a legal gray area by allowing players to use virtual currency to win real cash prizes.

Expert Insights and Future Outlook

Industry experts highlight the importance of balancing regulation with growth. Giuseppe Faraone, an online gambling expert, emphasizes that regulatory frameworks must evolve to keep pace with technological advancements while ensuring consumer protection. The future of online gambling in Portugal looks promising, with virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) poised to revolutionize the gaming experience by offering immersive environments that replicate the thrill of physical casinos.

Engagement and Responsible Gambling

Responsible gambling remains a priority, with efforts to promote safe gambling practices. In 2023, there were 196.6 thousand self-exclusions from online gambling, indicating a proactive approach towards addressing gambling addiction. The ratio of self-exclusions to registrations stood at 5%, reflecting the effectiveness of regulatory measures and awareness programs.

In conclusion, the online gambling sector in Portugal is experiencing significant growth, driven by innovative technologies and a young, engaged audience. As regulations continue to adapt and new trends emerge, the future of online gambling in Portugal looks set to offer even more dynamic and immersive experiences for players.