Online gambling has been legal in France since 2009. Studies have shown that over 10,000,000 people in the country place wagers often. The problem is that not all forms of betting are allowed.
Locally licensed bookies cannot offer casino or exchange betting to players. This, coupled with the extremely high taxation rates, is why most users choose to sign up with offshore sportsbooks to enjoy the freedom.
On this page, we will closely examine the laws surrounding online gambling in the country, with a main focus on the tax you need to pay and how you can access international operators. But first, here is a list of the best French betting sites.
Bookmaker Comparison | Local Licensed | International |
Licensing | Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ) | Malta, Curacao, Kahnawake and other international regulators |
Payments | VISA, Mastercard, PayPal, AMEX, E-wallets | Debit Cards, Credit Cards, E-wallets, Cryptos, 30+ Other Options |
User Experience | French website language, French Customer Support | Many sites support the French language but offer no French CS |
KYC Verification | Mandatory | Depending on the website |
Taxation | 0-45% (Progressive) | No Taxation |
The high taxation rates and the overall strict regulations that the French government has imposed on online gambling have led most players to register and play on international bookmakers. There, users can wager on more sports and games and deposit with more options without paying any taxes.
Full List of French Bookmakers
How to Find the Best France Betting Sites
As a French bettor, carefully assessing various factors is crucial to ensure you select a reliable and rewarding platform for your wagers. Before opening a new betting account, consider the following criteria to make the most when staking your hard-earned money:
Sports and Betting Markets
Make sure the platform offers a wide range of sports and markets, including your favorites. While popular options like football and basketball are staples on most sites, don’t overlook the inclusion of niche sports such as volleyball, handball, or motorsports. These can provide unique opportunities with favorable odds. Additionally, examine the depth of markets offered. For instance, whether the site supports player props, minute markets, or specific in-game events.
Live Betting Options
A diverse pre-match selection is only part of the equation. You need a bookmaker that is also strong when it comes to live betting. Pay close attention to the odds offered during live events; many French betting sites tend to lower prices once the game has started. Look for platforms with competitive live prices and real-time updates to stay ahead of the game.
Betting Features
Modern betting platforms often include features that significantly enhance your experience. Prioritize sites that offer Cash Out, Live Streaming, and Bet Builder. These tools can help you craft profitable approaches and manage your bets more effectively. The inability to offer them is a reason to avoid signing up with a new online sportsbook.
Payment Methods
Convenient and secure transactions are non-negotiable for French bettors. Opt for platforms that support popular local payment methods, such as debit and credit cards, PayPal, Google and Apple Pay. Choosing a platform that minimizes fees and supports seamless deposits and withdrawals will save you time and money in the long run.
Localization
For a smoother and more enjoyable betting experience, pick bookies designed with French users in mind. These should include two things: first, the ability to navigate the website in French and, second, sites that offer a French-speaking Customer Support. Resolving disputes or addressing concerns is far easier when support staff are fluent in your native language.
What You Need to Know About Sports Betting in France
Active Players | Legal Age | Local Currency | Player Protection |
10,000,000+ | 18 | Euro (€) | ANJ |
The first steps toward the legalization of remote gambling were made in 2005 after the European Commission started to investigate the French gambling market. Up until that point, the market was working as a state-owned monopoly.
As a result, in 2009, the French government introduced a bill that partially allowed foreign operators to apply for a license. The first independent regulatory body, the Autorité de régulation des jeux en ligne (ARJEL), also made its appearance.
Moreover, there have been some amendments to the initial bill, with the most influential occurring in 2019. The Autorite Nationale des Jeux (ANJ) replaced ARJEL and further actions against money laundering were taken. Finally, casino or exchange betting games were not given any licenses since they were characterized as highly addictive.
Is Online Betting in France Legal?
While the initial bill made online betting in France legal, it stated that only three types are allowed: sports betting, horse racing betting and poker games. Players can access offshore sites as well, since the authorities prioritize taking action against illegal bookies instead of bettors.
Do I Have To Pay A Tax On My Winnings In France?
The gambling tax system in France is progressive and ranges between 0 and 45%. In addition, professional players must pay another 9.2% of their winnings as social security contributions. Those numbers show why most players wager on international French bookmakers.
International vs. Local French Bookies
From our experience, signing up with an offshore bookie is more beneficial than playing on licensed betting sites in France. While you cannot file complaints with the ANJ directly, you can enjoy more freedom, mainly by avoiding the high tax rates and using any payment method you prefer. In addition, you can also bet on any casino game you want since local authorities do not block them on these bookies.
Can You Use Betting Apps in France?
The downside of playing on international bookies is that many have not developed a smartphone application yet, even though most players prefer betting on their mobile devices. Nevertheless, you can still visit the sportsbooks through the mobile website and place your wagers there. For more information, check our guide about the best mobile bookmakers offering their services to French players.
What is the Direction of Sports Betting in France
With so many casual and professional players in the country, it is no surprise that France's sports betting revenue reaches €2.2 billion annually. The percentage is higher compared to other European countries mainly due to the lack of casino games in licensed operators. Basketball, football, rugby, and cycling are the sports that attract most users.
Football
Football is the most popular sport in the country by far. The national team has multiple Euros and World Cup trophies and the domestic Ligue 1 is one of the top competitions in the world, featuring teams like PSG, Marseille, and Olympique Lyonnais. All French bookmakers thoroughly cover it and you can find high odds and a wide range of selections. However, locals also enjoy wagering on multiple other leagues and events.
Basketball
France is known for producing top-level basketball talent. Some of the most notable names include Tony Parker, Victor Wembanyama, Nicolas Batum, and Evan Fournier. In addition, the success of the national team, along with Pro A competing teams, has contributed to the increased gambling interest in the sport. In terms of volume, it comes second only to football in France.
Rugby
Apart from the UK, France also has a rich rugby history. The sport made its appearance in the country back in 1872. The national team holds the record for most wins in the 6 Nations with 26. Understandably, many bettors love wagering on it. The downside is that most betting sites in France often overlook it. You will find limited markets, mediocre odds, and rare promotions, especially when compared with football or basketball.
Cycling
Unsurprisingly, the French love cycling. In terms of participation, it is the number-one sport in the country, with over 60% of the population engaging in it yearly. Moreover, the country is home to the most popular event: the Tour de France. Every July, we notice a spike in the total amount of wagers placed on the sport. Of course, betting sites in France also offer odds on many other high-profile events, such as the Spanish Grand Tour.
How To Bet Online in France - Step By Step
If you’re new to gambling and wondering where to begin, follow these steps to get started smoothly:
- 1 Pick a Bookmaker: Start by selecting a platform that meets your requirements by taking a look at our detailed reviews and ratings. Take your time to research, as choosing the right site is critical and should not be done hastily. Depending on your interests and goals, you might even consider registering with multiple French bookies. This approach allows you to compare odds, take advantage of promotions, and access a broader range of features.
- 2 Sign Up: Once you’ve chosen a site, visit its official webpage via the provided link. Click the "Sign Up" or "Register" button, typically located at the top of the homepage, and provide the required information, such as your email, phone number, password, and other personal details like your address or tax code (if needed for verification). Most sites ask you to upload identification documents to verify your account. Double-check your entries to ensure accuracy and avoid issues during withdrawals or future transactions.
- 3 Fund Your Account: After completing the registration process, navigate to the cashier or deposit section of the platform to add funds to your account. Select a payment method you trust, such as credit cards, debit cards, PayPal, or digital wallets like PayPal or Google Pay. Ensure your deposit meets the minimum amount required to claim any available bookmaker bonuses. Take the time to review the terms, such as wagering requirements or expiration dates, to make the most of these offers.
- 4 Begin Betting: With funds successfully deposited, you can explore the sportsbook. Browse through the available events to find those that pique your interest. Take some time to familiarize yourself with the betting markets and how the odds are displayed. Once you’re ready, select the wager you wish to place, specify your stake amount, and click on the “Place” button to confirm your wager. After the event concludes, your bet will be settled automatically, and any winnings will be credited to your account balance.
Which Payments Do French Bettors Prefer?
In the following section, we will take a look at the top payment options you can use for gambling in France.
⏩ Debit & Credit Cards: More than 2/3 of the transactions in the country occur through VISA, Mastercard, or Maestro debit and credit cards. Luckily, all French betting sites allow you to perform deposits and withdrawals with any of them.
⏩ PayPal: This is the most popular e-wallet in the country. More than 5,000,000 people use them in their everyday transactions. PayPal betting sites are extremely secure and offer instantaneous transactions. However, if you want to keep your activity under the radar, you should opt for other e-wallets like Skrill or Neteller.
⏩ Mobile Payments: Around 38% of the population uses mobile transactions to fund their gambling accounts. Amazon Pay, Revolut, and Monese have gained a lot of traction. However, Google and Apple Pay bookmakers still dominate the market.
⏩ Cryptocurrencies: You should note that bookmakers that hold a local license in France are not allowed to accept transactions through cryptocurrencies. Local authorities are very strict when it comes to money laundering. On the other hand, many offshore bookmakers, like Mystake and Goldenbet, have added them to their cashier sections.
Sports Betting in France: What Does the Future Hold
It's hard to believe that a country with a liberal heritage like France would treat gambling so strictly. Since the imposition of the French Gambling Act, the market has been mostly dominated by local operators. Heavy taxation and the lack of online casino licenses are why top international brands stay out of the market.
It isn't the most welcoming country for online betting and needs a more operator-friendly legal framework. The French gambling scene has a long way to go before it can fulfill its potential. It’s all down to the ANJ to show its colors in the coming years.
Local authorities are concerned about the illegal market that has flourished due to the harsh restrictions. We expect this situation to continue since further taxation on French betting sites has been announced for the years to come.
Gambling Regulations in Nearby Areas
⏩ Monaco: While land-based casinos are famous worldwide and are regulated by the Gaming Act of 87', online gambling falls under no law or regulation and operates as a grey market. This means that players can safely register on any of the best Monaco betting sites they prefer.
⏩ Belgium: It stands out as one of the earliest European countries to fully regulate online gambling. Since 2011, numerous Belgium betting sites have emerged, catering to players with their services. However, it's worth noting that all locally licensed bookies enforce a deposit limit of €500 per week.
⏩ Switzerland: Despite the existence of a dominant monopoly operated by Swisslos, the online gambling landscape in the country displays a lot of flexibility. Users enjoy easy access to a growing list of Swiss betting sites with minimal oversight.
Yes, online betting is considered legal in France. Nonetheless, it’s worth mentioning that not all forms of gambling are indeed legal. Namely, casino games, spread betting and betting exchanges are not.
Yes. It is one of the most prominent international bookmakers that accepts French players. It offers betting on 40+ sports, with more than 30.000 pre-match events per month. Additionally, by inputting the exclusive Mystake Bonus Code, you qualify for a lucrative Sign Up Offer.
In France, you need to be at least 18 years old before being able to register and place wagers on any online bookmaker. Remember that you must also complete the KYC process to withdraw your winnings.
The most popular gambling payments in the country are straightforward. Debit and credit cards hold the lion’s share of the market. Additionally, many players perform transactions with PayPal and other e-wallets.
Yes. This is an independent bookmaker that offers its services in more than 100 regions worldwide. It offers high pre-match odds, alongside a wide range of features. For all the latest info, follow our dedicated Rolletto review.
The most popular online gambling sites that operate in France are Powbet, Mystake, and Goldenbet. They come with some of the highest odds online, an excellent range of markets, and a full promotions page.
The Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ) is the authority that oversees all gambling activities in the country. Operators who want to obtain a local license must apply directly to the ANJ.
Exchange betting is among the types of gambling activities that are not legal in France, as they are deemed too addictive. As a consequence, betting exchanges in France are not licensed.