Germany lifts online slot bet limits and tightens iGaming regulation

Germany’s joint gambling authority (GGL) has approved an increase in the maximum bet per spin for licensed online slot operators. While the default legal limit remains €1, approved operators may now offer €3 or €5 limits, provided the player is at least 21 years old for the €3 limit and shows no signs of problem gambling in the previous 90 days for the €5 limit. The operators must conduct enhanced monitoring of player behavior before and after the limit increase and intervene if risk indicators appear.

The change is part of a broader German iGaming model that includes a €1,000 monthly deposit cap, a nationwide self‑exclusion system (OASIS), and the LUGAS platform that tracks deposits and gameplay across licensed providers. The GGL also maintains a whitelist of approved operators and enforces strict advertising and bonus rules to protect players.

In addition, German tax law generally treats gambling winnings as tax‑free for private individuals, but earnings from professional or commercial gambling activities are subject to income tax. Winners may also face gift or inheritance tax when transferring winnings and capital gains tax on interest earned from invested winnings.