Online Gambling Regulations and Laws in France

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Deni

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Expertise: Casino Content Writing, Journalism & (PR), Gambling Regulations, Dutch & German Gambling Markets

Hi, I'm Deni! I'm a research obsessive with a passion for gambling regulations, market trends, and casino news. I dig deep into every topic I cover - so every article, review, or guide I write is built on solid research and real detail.

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Published: July 30, 2020
Updated: April 1, 2026

The country of France is known for its romance, French baguettes, and the major role it has played in the creation of the most popular gambling games known today.

With online gambling being the current phenomenon taking the world by storm, it is only fair to assume that the French would be the first to dip their hands in the butter.

Unfortunately, this could not be any less accurate. It seems that while certain forms of online gambling were legalised, the most popular games, including roulette and slots, are banned in the country.

Online gambling regulations in France — Online gambling regulations, laws and taxes in France

This is quite odd, seeing how gambling has been present throughout the years. Even more, as the French were responsible for the creation of various popular games, including the roulette wheel.

This was invented by Blaise Pascal, a French mathematician. Chemin de Fer, the original Baccarat version, also originates from the country of love. Then, of course, there is Parimutuel betting that also has its French origins.

All in all, it is expected that the country that has done so much for the gambling industry would be one of the top players in the EU online gambling market.

In this guide, we’ll take a look at how the French laws and regulations have developed over the years. We’ll also find out what options are available for French players looking to take part in online gambling entertainment.

History and laws on gambling in France

It’s interesting to note that while roulette was created in France in the 17^th Century, it is illegal to play it online in the country today. But let’s start at the beginning.

The first form of gambling was legalised in May 1539 by Francis I. This was the lottery known as Blanque at the time, from which a large fixed annual fee was paid to the Treasury.
Over the years many of the French monarchy leaders decided to ban gambling. One could say it was a hot and cold topic with many leaders having different views. The same was for "on and off again" laws.
Many lotteries were created without government authorisation, which caused major distress and resulted in the Parlement de Paris banning them from 1598 to 1661.
It was in the 17^th Century that the government was forced to establish a public lottery to relieve the financial problems within the country.

The laws continued to change, and all forms of gambling were put through a rollercoaster of legislation. Luckily, the EU intervened in France, as it did in Spain and several other European countries, and forced the government to end its restrictive gaming laws.

Eventually, the government eased up a little and even legalised online gambling in France in 2010. Of course, it was only legalised to a degree.
Only companies offering sports betting, poker and horse betting were provided licences to offer their online games to French citizens.

With the Gambling Act established in 2010, the Regulatory Authority for Online Games (ARJEL) was created. This regulatory body is in charge of granting licences and regulating all forms of online gambling in France.

In 2019, the regulation scope was broadened and the authority was transformed into the new and more powerful National Gambling Authority (ANJ). It currently regulates all licensed gambling and oversees responsible play measures.

As it stands, ANJ requires operators to have a local representation, adhere to all rules, employ AML measures, and contribute to responsible gambling prevention and support to obtain a license.

The Gambling Act was a big part of history in the making, as it ended the government monopoly and allowed foreign operators to finally enter the French market. There were over 35 companies applying for licences after the Act was implemented.

The downside is that to this day only online poker, horse race betting, and sports betting are legal. According to French authorities, all other forms of gambling are considered too addictive.

These include roulette, all other table games, and slots. All French licensed gambling sites provide only legally acceptable forms of gambling entertainment.

Are gambling winnings taxed in France?

Yes, in France, players are required to declare and pay tax on all gambling winnings.

Any casino winnings that are more than €1,500 are taxed with 12% and must be declared as income.
For lottery players, winnings are tax-free.

Online casino operators suffer the most when it comes to taxes. Interest is growing in the country's online gambling market, but the tax situation is putting a damper on it.

Individual players might also feel a little relief with lower taxes since the number of gamblers has grown rapidly over the years.

Is online gambling legal in France?

Yes, but only some forms of it (e.g., poker and sports betting).

The legal situation could very well confuse you. While all forms of gambling are legal and regulated in France, only a limited number of online gambling forms are allowed.

Online slots and table games, including roulette and blackjack, have become the top preferred forms of online gambling.
Unfortunately, French citizens are not legally allowed to play these games and won’t find any of these gaming variants in licensed French online casinos.
However, if you want to play at international casinos or foreign sites that don't hold a French license, you won’t get prosecuted.

If you are looking for top-quality online casino entertainment at a licensed foreign site, it is best to choose a site that has been vetted and reviewed. Take a look at our top-rated online casinos that have made their wide variety of games available to French players.

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By Deni

Verified Casino Expert

Expertise: Casino Content Writing, Journalism & (PR), Gambling Regulations, Dutch & German Gambling Markets

Learn about our Review Process

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Last updated: April 1, 2026

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France - online gambling regulations

Contents

Contents

History and laws on gambling in France

Are gambling winnings taxed in France?