Frequently Asked Questions
General & GamStop Questions
1. What are non GamStop casinos?
Non GamStop casinos are online gambling sites based outside the UK (offshore) that do not participate in the UK's self-exclusion scheme. This means they can accept UK players who have previously self-excluded via GamStop.
2. Is it legal for UK players to play at these casinos?
Yes, it is perfectly legal. While these casinos are not licensed by the UKGC, there is no law prohibiting a UK resident from playing on international websites licensed in jurisdictions like Curacao or Malta.
3. Can I use GamStop to block myself from these sites?
No. GamStop only works for casinos licensed by the UK Gambling Commission. Offshore casinos are not connected to the GamStop database, so your self-exclusion will not apply there.
4. Are non GamStop casinos safe?
Most are safe, provided they hold a valid international license (e.g., Curacao eGaming). However, since they are less regulated than UK sites, it is crucial to stick to recommended and reviewed casinos to avoid scams.
5. What happens if I have a dispute with a non GamStop casino?
You cannot contact the UKGC for help. You will need to contact the casino's customer support or the offshore regulator (e.g., Curacao). This is why choosing a reputable brand from our list is important.
Payments & Withdrawals
6. Can I use my UK credit card?
Yes! Unlike UKGC casinos which banned credit cards in 2020, most non GamStop casinos accept Visa and Mastercard credit cards for deposits.
7. Do these casinos accept PayPal?
Generally, no. PayPal rarely works with offshore gambling sites. You will likely need to use cards, cryptocurrencies, or e-wallets like Skrill or Neteller.
8. Can I deposit using Cryptocurrency?
Yes, crypto is very popular at non GamStop casinos. Bitcoin, Ethereum, and USDT are widely accepted and offer fast, anonymous transactions.
9. How long do withdrawals take?
Crypto withdrawals are usually instant or take a few hours. Bank transfers and card withdrawals may take 1-3 business days, depending on the operator.
10. Are my winnings taxable in the UK?
No. In the UK, gambling winnings are not considered taxable income, regardless of whether you win at a UK casino or an offshore site.
Account & Verification
11. Do I need to send ID documents (KYC)?
Many non GamStop casinos allow you to play without immediate verification ("No KYC" casinos). However, for large withdrawals, most reputable sites will eventually ask for basic ID to prevent money laundering.
12. How do I register?
Registration is very fast. Usually, you only need an email address and a password. Some sites may ask for a phone number, but the process takes less than 2 minutes.
13. Will playing affect my credit score?
No. Gambling transactions do not appear on your credit file in a way that harms your score, unless you borrow money to play and fail to pay it back.
14. Can I self-exclude from a specific non GamStop casino?
Yes. Reputable offshore casinos have their own internal self-exclusion tools. You can contact support to block your account on that specific website.
15. Is there a minimum age to play?
Yes, you must be at least 18 years old. While verification might be relaxed at the start, underage gambling is strictly prohibited and will result in confiscated funds.
Games & Bonuses
16. Are the bonuses bigger than UK sites?
Often, yes. Without the strict UKGC taxes and regulations, offshore sites can afford to offer massive welcome packages (e.g., 400% match) and higher cashback rates.
17. Are the games fair?
Yes, provided the casino uses software from reputable providers (NetEnt, Pragmatic Play, Evo, etc.). These games use RNG (Random Number Generators) tested by independent labs.
18. Do they have popular slots like Starburst or Big Bass Bonanza?
Yes, most non GamStop casinos partner with the same top-tier developers found in the UK, so you will find thousands of familiar slots.
19. Can I play on my mobile phone?
Absolutely. Modern non GamStop sites are fully optimized for mobile browsers (Chrome, Safari) on both iOS and Android. No app download is usually required.
20. Where can I get help if I have a gambling problem?
If you feel you are losing control, please seek help immediately. Organizations like GamCare and BeGambleAware offer free support. You can also use blocking software like Gamban to block access to all gambling sites on your device.