Gambling in Italy has existed for thousands of years. It dates back to Ancient Rome, where Romans would gamble on a daily basis as a form of entertainment. You could find people in taverns and gambling houses playing Tesserae, a game where two players try to guess the outcome of the dice, or Tabula, now commonly known as Backgammon. Romans would even bet on chariot races and gladiator fights.
Nowadays, Italy is considered one of the most liberal countries and gambling is still legal and regulated by a state authority, called the ADM. The law from 2006 particularly allowed operators to provide sports betting services in land-based premises, as well as online. Additionally, in 2011 it permitted authorities to issue licenses for poker and casino games.
There were four land-based casinos in Italy but in 2018 one of them, Casinò di Campione, declared bankruptcy and officially closed doors in early 2019. The gambling industry has witnessed hard times since the advertising ban from 2019, which prohibited all kinds of advertisements of games with cash or monetary prizes on television and radio broadcasts, as well as in cinemas, theaters, and newspapers.
Regulation and Licensing
The authority that manages and regulates the Italian gambling market is the Agenzia delle Dogane e dei Monopoli (the Italian Agency of Customs and Monopoly, or ADM).
Responsibilities
As a regulatory authority, the ADM has several responsibilities. These include:
- monitoring and controlling the gambling activities in the country
- observing that the licensed operators work in accordance with the current gambling laws and regulations
- issuing gambling licenses (and revoking them if it detects any infringement on the operator’s side)
- limiting and prosecuting illegal gambling
- collecting gambling taxes
Requirements
According to current laws, all individuals or enterprises who wish to provide their services on the Italian gambling market must meet certain requirements. These requirements include having:
- a valid license issued by the ADM or another European gaming authority
- the technical capacity and infrastructure to provide said services
- a capital of EUR1,500,000
- servers located in Italy, or another EU/EEA country
If individuals/enterprises are not already licensed and wish to obtain a license by the ADM, they will have to meet the same criteria as described above. The licenses are valid for a certain amount of time, which depends on the type of gambling activity the operator conducts and the operator’s capacity. Once they have obtained a license, operators are permitted to only offer games that are regulated by the state.
Taxes
Licensees are also obliged to pay taxes to the Italian Government, which depend on the type of gambling activities they provide and the amount of their income:
- for distance skill games and distance bingo, 25% of the amount not returned to players.
- for fixed odds bets, excluding horse racing bets, 20% for land-based betting, and 24% for online betting, based on the difference between the amount played in the casino and the winnings paid to players.
- for fixed odds bets on simulated events, 22% of the collection net of sums returned to players as winnings.
In addition, gambling operators must comply with the requirements regarding social responsibility. All casinos must protect minors and provide help to problem gamblers, as well as train the members of their customer support team to detect problematic behavior in players. Operators must also ensure secure payments, in order to not abuse public trust.
Players’ Security
There are several important practices and systems that must be present in all casinos around the world. We have made a list of what Italian players should look for when registering at any gambling website. If a casino doesn’t seem reliable enough, we advise you seek another one, which has all of the features described below.
Valid license
A valid license is the first thing that players should look for. All respected casinos place information about their licenses and the authorities that regulate them at the bottom of their websites. Italian casinos cannot work without a valid license from the ADM. International casinos, on the other hand, can be licensed by different regulators, but in order to feel safe and secure, Italian players should choose casinos that are licensed by respected and trusted international authorities like the Malta Gaming Authority, the Gibraltar Gambling Commission, or the Alderney Gambling Control Commission.
RNG technology
RNG, or Random Number Generator, is a mandatory technology that all casinos must employ. It ensures that games are not predetermined and all outcomes are based on pure chance. The random results guarantee fair gameplay and assure gamblers that both winnings and losses are based on their luck.
RTP rates
RTP rates are another important factor. Most notable casinos show their RTP percentage at the bottom of their websites. RTP stands for Return to Player and shows the percentage of money that comes back to players. Everybody knows that a certain amount of money goes to the casino’s treasury, but RTP rates for slots must still be reasonable enough and go over at least 90%.
Security measures
With so many players depositing real money, casinos are expected to implement a number of security measures and keep players’ sensitive data safe. The most common measures include strong firewalls and SSL (Secure Socket Layer) technology. SSL systems vary from 128-bit to 2048-bit. This technology is a must nowadays wherever online payments are concerned and is employed by many leading companies and financial institutions. Always make sure that your chosen casino has an SSL system, as this will give you a feeling of security and make your gambling experience a lot more relaxing and enjoyable.
Responsible gambling
The Italian Government has obliged all Italian casinos to implement various precautionary practices and help gamblers if they sense any problematic behavior. Responsible gaming should be endorsed by all casinos, whether Italian or foreign, as problem gambling is a very common condition around the world and has very unpleasant effects on the player’s personal and professional life. All players should check in advance if casinos offer self-exclusion, daily, weekly or monthly limits, or “cool-down” breaks. All these are crucial and all support agents should be able to help players set their accounts to exclusion mode if they feel they need a break from gambling.
Popular Software Providers
Play’n GO
Play’n GO is a leading game developer that supplies hundreds of online gambling providers. The company produces fantastic games offering spectacular graphics and numerous ways to win. Some of the most popular Play’n GO slot titles at the moment include Doom of Dead and Book of Dead, Win-a-Beest, Riddle Reels, Reactoonz, and many more.
NetEnt
NetEnt is one of the best-known software providers in the casino community. We doubt there is anyone in the gambling industry that hasn’t heard of NetEnt or hasn’t played a game produced by this company. NetEnt’s games can be found in all big casinos and all of them boast one-of-a-kind gameplay and top-notch quality.
Microgaming
Microgaming is the company that changed the casino industry forever. This software provider made it possible for online casinos to exist when it started producing exclusive casino games back in 1994. There isn’t a self-respected casino in the industry that doesn’t offer Microgaming’s games, as these are the epitome of top-notch quality and attention to detail.
Evolution Gaming
Evolution Gaming is a leading company that powers the live casino sections of hundreds of casinos around the world. Its live tables are managed by well-versed dealers and boast great quality and smooth gameplay.
Popular Payment Methods
It is very important for casinos to support various payment methods, as this way players from around the world can enjoy paying via their most convenient and comfortable payment processors. Our team has gathered a list of the most popular methods that Italian players can use. All of these can be seen in Italian casinos, and in many international ones as well. Take a look at our top picks:
Credit/Debit cards
Credit and debit cards are the most commonly used method to pay online. They are comfortable and easy to use, and although it takes a little longer to process, card transactions are still regarded as one of the safest methods.
Skrill
Skrill is a UK-based company that offers international payments with fairly low transaction fees. It is a preferred option for many players from around the world and many Italian casinos accept payments via Skrill, too.
PostePay
PostePay is an Italian prepaid payment method, which can be found in many Italian casinos. The service is co-branded with VISA or MasterCard and is operated by “Poste Italiane” in Italy. These prepaid cards are accepted wherever VISA and MasterCard are supported.
ecoPayz
ecoPayz is a company with more than 20 years of experience behind it. It provides safe and secure online payments from and to every corner of the world. All you need to do is open an ecoAccount completely free of charge and you can send or receive money right away.
Sofort Banking
Sofort banking is another processor that is used in 8 European countries. It is very popular in Germany, and in Italy as well. It works on the principle of a bank transfer. The transaction costs are 0.9% of the transaction amount and a fixed charge of €0.25 per transaction.
Paysafecard
Paysafecard offers prepaid cards with 16-digit codes that you can use to pay online and are especially convenient when it comes to online games and casinos. These do not use any credit card information and are a great way to pay online without providing too much personal information.
Popular Bonuses
There are plenty of different bonuses that players can enjoy in a casino. Some are exclusive to a handful of VIP players, while others are available for all players to enjoy. These are the 6 most common types of bonuses and promotions that Italian players can see in international and home casinos:
Welcome bonus
Welcome packages are the most common gift for newly-registered users. These usually include extra funds and free spins, so new players can explore the casino and try various games. Welcome bonuses come with a wagering requirement that players should closely observe because even the slightest mistake could be seen as a breach of the bonus rules and could void your winnings.
No-deposit bonus
No-deposit bonuses, as the name suggests, are bonuses that do not require players to cash in their accounts. These can be redeemed by new users only and come in the form of free cash or spins.
Weekly and monthly promotions
Many casinos try to keep their players’ interest by offering various promotions throughout the month. These are tied to popular games at the moment, and players can redeem a set of free spins that can be used on these games exclusively.
Free spins
Free spins can be granted at any time to any player. These usually come as a gift from the casino, but may also require players to make a deposit in order to redeem them.
Loyalty programs
Loyalty programs are a great way for casinos to keep players interested in the long run. All players participate in the programs and the more they play, the more points they collect. The higher your level, the bigger prizes you receive. VIP players can enjoy exclusive bonuses, cashbacks, VIP events, and plenty of other advantages.
TOP 10 Online Casinos for Players from Italy
With the evolution of the Internet, online casinos have become a common sight and a preferred means of entertainment and extra income for many people. In the list below, players will be able to view the best gambling providers open to users from Italy. Most of these operators are Italian, while others are foreign casinos that Italian players can still access and register at.
888casino
888casino is one of the most respected casinos in the industry. It has been operating for over 20 years and has managed to make a great name for itself. Gamblers from all over the world choose 888, as it is a reliable and honest provider and boasts a diversified gaming catalog.
Players fall in love with the wonderful selection of games, as here they can find content produced by various notable game developers like NetEnt, Playtech, Yggdrasil, NextGen, and many others. The casino also provides players with plenty of bountiful bonuses and promotions which only contribute to a wonderful casino experience. 888 is licensed by the Malta Gaming Authority, UK Gambling Commission, the Gibraltar Gambling Commission, and the ADM, and implements various security practices, as well as a responsible gambling policy.
LeoVegas Casino
Just like a real lion, LeoVegas strives to be the king of the gambling industry. The casino was established in 2012 and quickly rose to fame. Nowadays it is regarded as one of the best and most reliable casinos in the market. It boasts a user-friendly platform and various customer services, which guarantee pleasant gameplay and comfortable banking.
The gaming library consists of hundreds of mesmerizing slots, table games, poker variations, and progressive jackpots. Lovers or real-time interactions can also enjoy a live casino section, powered by gaming giants like Evolution Gaming and NetEnt.
Players can also enjoy plenty of convenient banking methods, as well as 10 different currencies and great live chat support, available 24/7.
Betway Casino
Betway is a leader in the casino industry, that emerged on the gambling stage in 2006. The casino prides itself on providing high-quality customer service, state-of-the-art casino games, and a wonderful immersive live casino. The gaming library consists of more than 450 titles, supplied by the best game developers in the industry. There is also a great betting section where sports enthusiasts can place bets on their favorite teams.
Betway welcomes players with a wide range of promotions, and show its gratitude to players with regular bonuses and rewards. Players can take part in various live casino competitions and also strive to become a VIP player with the plentiful Betway loyalty program. The casino has also taken players’ comfort into account and has partnered with some of the most popular payment processors, so players can enjoy safe and convenient banking.
SNAI Casino
SNAI Casino is a popular Italian gambling provider, which strives to offer a variety of gambling activities and provide players with the ultimate casino experience. Here you will find a diverse selection of more than 700 slot titles, plenty of table and card games, poker variations, bingo, lotteries, live casino, and sports and racing betting sections. There is something for everyone here and all players will have a great time in SNAI.
On top of that, users can enjoy an array of bonuses that are tailor-made and carefully selected to match each player’s interests. There is a welcome bonus that can be used for slots, as well as a bonus made for sports and racing betting. Lovers of poker can enjoy a separate package for poker games exclusively, and so can lovers of bingo with their exclusive bingo promo offer.
Casino.com
Casino.com prides itself on being one of the most reliable gambling providers in Italy. It is licensed by the ADM and works in conformity with all state laws and regulations. The casino sports a decent gaming catalog, offering slot titles, classic casino games like blackjack, roulette and poker, as well as a few arcade games.
You can also find a variety of promotions including, a welcome bonus for new players, daily and hourly rewards, and even a bonus for players who send their verification documents within 10 days after their registration. Players are also eligible for a VIP program, which grants them exclusive events and promotions, special gifts, comp points, and higher betting limits.
Additionally, players can enjoy several banking methods and great customer support via live chat available from 8:00 to 00:00 every day. The casino endorses safe and moderate gaming and provides thorough information on how to prevent problem gambling.
StarCasino
A legal, safe, and ADM-certified operator, StarCasino claims to be the No.1 casino in Italy. Here Italian players will find everything they would in a foreign casino. The operator offers a great collection of games and has made sure to include titles by the most notable software providers in the industry. Here you can find popular slots like Starburst, Legacy of Dead, Sweet Bonanza, Gonzo’s Quest, and many more.
For those who prefer table and card games, the casino offers various blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and poker games. There is also a live section powered by Evolution Gaming and NetEnt. In addition, players can also enjoy a sports betting section where they can bet on their favorite football, basketball, or hockey teams.
StarVegas Casino
StarVegas is a fantastic Italian gambling provider. The casino sports a diverse collection of games and a plentiful bonus system. It is licensed by the ADM and has proven to be a reliable operator.
Slot titles are prevalent in this casino, and although the table and poker games are not that many in number, they are carefully selected with attention to quality and detail. StarVegas also offers a nice collection of live games, and a sports betting section.
The casino has several ongoing promotions, including a no-deposit bonus, a welcome pack, a referral bonus, daily and weekly promos, and a great loyalty program. On top of that, players can make use of several banking methods in order to comfortably cash in their bankrolls and withdraw their winnings.
NetBet Casino
NetBet is one of the best casinos in the gambling industry. It is licensed by the Malta Gaming Authority, as well as the ADM, and endorses honest and transparent practices.
NetBet supports a myriad of bonuses and promotions. New users can redeem a wonderful welcome package while returning players can enjoy various daily and weekly promotions, tournaments, a bountiful VIP lounge, and many more.
As for its gaming library, NetBet has selected an array of high-quality games produced by top-notch developers like NetEnt, Play’n GO, iSoftBet, Quickspin, 1×2, Amatic, Microgaming, and many others. Here players can find an extensive collection of slots, as well as numerous casino classics, poker variations, progressive jackpots, and a bunch of live titles.
Unibet Casino
Unibet Casino has been in the gambling industry since 1997. It was established by Anders Ström, a player who wanted to share his experience and his tips with players around the world and help them make more informed bets.
Unibet offers an array of gambling activities, including sports and race betting, slots, classic casino table games, progressive jackpots, poker, live casino, and bingo. It is safe to say that this is a heaven on Earth for all gamblers who can find everything that their heart desires in Unibet Casino.
What is more, the operator takes great pride in winning some very prestigious awards including the Online Poker Operator of the Year and Socially Responsible Operator of the Year at the International Gaming Awards 2020. It also received the Sports betting Operator and Socially Responsible Operator at the EGR Nordics Awards 2020, as well as many others.
Slottery Casino
Slottery Casino is an amazing Italian gambling operator that provides a plethora of gaming options and can satisfy the needs of all kinds of players. Here you can find a sports and racing betting section, where you can place bets on football matches, horse and dog racing. Players can also enjoy a diverse catalog of slots, table games, poker, and bingo. You can even try your luck with some scratch cards, or the various types of lotteries.
Slottery Casino offers plenty of different bonuses. There are two different welcome packages – one for casino games, and one for sports betting. There are also many promotions for already registered users, and additionally, avid poker players can enjoy a separate assortment of plentiful poker bonuses.
Ask a Question. Get an Answer.
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Find the answers of questions people asked so far:
What is the legal age to register at Italian online casinos and do I need to verify my age?
Under Italian law, individuals must be at least 18 years of age to be able to join an online casino licensed to operate in Italy. Following ADM’s responsible gambling and players’ protection guidelines, online casinos licensed in Italy are required to ask their members to go through a KYC (know your customer) verification process when they open their accounts. With more online casinos adopting innovative KYC systems, this process gets easier and faster to complete, allowing newly registered players to quickly confirm their age and other personal details and start their online casino sessions.
Where can I see all casino operators who have obtained a license from the ADM?
If you wish to see a list of all operators who have obtained a remote gambling license to operate in Italy, you should visit the official website of the ADM (Agenzia delle dogane e dei Monopoli). You should hover over the Activities section of the Menu and select the Gaming option. There, you can open the Remote Gaming link, which will allow you to see the full list of all operators who have obtained a remote gaming license from the ADM. If you ever doubt whether an online casino has been licensed by the Italian regulator, you can look for the ADM logo at the bottom of the casino’s home page. What is more, all operators licensed to offer casino games to Italian players are required to have “.it” at the end of their domain name, which is another clear sign of the casino holding an ADM license.