Best Online Casinos Iceland - Top Casino Sites ICE | News Direct

Best Online Casinos Iceland - Top Casino Sites ICE Find our list of casino sites for Iceland

News release by AM Europe

facebook icon linkedin icon twitter icon pinterest icon email icon Reykjavík, Iceland | September 06, 2023 04:36 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Iceland isn’t a country renowned for its gambling community - and, as such, online casinos in Iceland are predominantly operated by foreign entities, such as 22Bet. This means that as a player, you need to do plenty of research before getting started. You can’t simply take a lucky dip and start playing. It is essential that you make sure you pick a trusted and reputable experience… so you avoid a substandard experience.

But fear not, in this guide we will provide you with a comprehensive overview of everything you need to know to get your Iceland casino journey started.

The Top Rated Online Casinos in Iceland

Here is our list of online casinos in Iceland:

How We Choose the Best Online Casinos in Iceland

Here are the main factors we consider when deciding which online casinos deserve a place on our list of top-rated sites.

Licence and Reputation

Unlicensed casinos can pose a huge risk as they lack proper oversight and regulations - which means they can’t necessarily be trusted. That's why it is imperative to opt for licensed casinos… a factor we prioritise greatly. Once we are assured of its licence, we conduct thorough reviews of a casino's reputation before featuring them on our website.

Welcome Bonus and Existing Player Bonuses

Players should also be able to enjoy value for money. So we then assess the bonuses - we look to see how big the welcome bonus is and how fair the terms are. Moreover, we then scrutinise the promotions they offer their existing players. We want to make sure the casino rewards new and existing players before featuring them on our website.

The Game Selection

We also examine the casino's game selection to see what choices are available to players - from online slots to roulette, table games and live dealer games. Quality is every bit as important as quantity, so we also assess the list of providers the casino collaborates with to ensure that you are getting a first-class experience.

Customer Support

Sometimes things don’t go to plan, which is why we also prioritise the quality of customer service. Anything can happen when playing at a casino - and money is at risk so convenient access to support is crucial. Hence, we assess the variety of customer support channels offered and how easy it is to contact them.

Safety and Security

The site should also be fully safe and secure. As such, we look for aspects such as SSL encryption technology to see that its certificate is in place along with any other measures they have in place, so you can be assured that your details and money are completely protected.

Hopefully, taking all of the above into consideration, you should experience the very best online casino experience in Iceland.

The History of Gambling in Iceland

There was once a time when Iceland stood as a bustling centre for gambling activities, busy and thriving. Yet, as time has progressed, it has regressed somewhat… and the nation has undertaken certain measures to outlaw online gaming, which makes it tricky for online casinos operating in the country.

Before this all occurred, the country had established gambling regulations to oversee the sector; however, these have undergone a transformation over time. As such, there are several different eras within the timeline - so let’s see how the online casino landscape has changed over time.

1926 - The Lottery Act

Gambling in Iceland dates all the way back to 1926 when the government introduced its very first gambling statute. Subsequently, the Lottery Act became an integral part of this legal framework, during a time when casinos and gambling across Europe was at its peak.

What’s more, because there were still many countries that had yet to establish regulations for their own gambling sectors, Iceland emerged as a pioneer in the industry. However, that did mean that other gambling activities that were happening in the country had been outlawed.

1933 - Amendment of the Lottery Act

There was an amendment made to the Lottery Act in 1933 which allowed the University of Iceland to own and run its own lottery. They would only be allowed to do so, however, if 8% of its proceeds went directly into the university’s purse. This amendment also gave rise to more lotteries - and thus Iceland saw more state-owned lotteries which are still available to this day.

1994 - Approval of Land-Based Casino Slot Machines

In 1994, the country approved the operation of land-based casino slot games. That being said, there was a clause to their operation - that all proceeds from that establishment would go directly to charity. Even to this day, these slot games are still available and still incredibly popular.

Outright Ban on Online Casinos

Despite the above, Iceland has, in place, an outright ban on online casinos operating within the country. So, finding an online casino operating legally in the country isn’t possible because they don’t issue licences. That’s why residents of Iceland need to rely on established and trustworthy offshore casinos. The great news is that these laws do not forbid players from playing at these international casinos, so you’re free to play… but you just need to play at a trusted and reputable international casino.

The Future of Online Casinos in Iceland

Although there is no place for online casinos in Iceland, as a resident of Iceland, you can play at offshore gaming sites. As such, more and more people are starting to use them and they are becoming ever more popular… with people more interested in what they offer. There is hope that there will eventually be changes in the online gambling laws which would allow locally owned and operated online casinos to start offering games - allowing for an even more smooth and localised gaming experience.

Ultimately, we think that there is a bright future for online casino players in Iceland… and we believe changes will be made. It may be that soon we will see Icelandic online casinos emerge… and non-restricted online gambling may well be closer than you thought!

The Legality of Online Casinos in Iceland

The legality of online casinos in Iceland is a complex and evolving matter. As has been the case for a number of years, online casinos operate in a legal grey area. While the country has had a history of gambling regulations, the rise of online platforms has posed challenges to traditional legislation. Iceland's focus on preventing gambling addiction and maintaining a responsible gambling environment influenced its stance.

The government has taken measures to restrict access to foreign online casinos and has considered implementing stricter controls. However, the situation is ever-evolving. So, whilst it’s possible to play at international online casinos, it’s always good to check the regulations.

Deposit & Withdrawal Limits at Iceland Online Casino Sites

In the absence of specific online gambling regulations in Iceland, the deposit and withdrawal limits depend on your chosen online casino. That’s why, before you open an account with an online casino, you should check for yourself whether there are any restrictions on deposit and withdrawal transactions.

Before registering and depositing, examine the lower and upper thresholds - indeed, if you are a high roller or a more casual player, this criterion could be a pivotal factor in your casino selection process. The very best online casinos will be flexible, making it easy for all types of players to deposit, play and withdraw.

Online Casino Licences in Iceland

Iceland does not issue online casino licences, which means that you need to look for the very best international online casinos with international licences. In these instances, you need to do your research. Look for their games, customer support etc - and look to see which regulatory body has granted them a licence.

When picking your casino based on its licence, it is advisable to look for the more esteemed casino licensing bodies like the Malta Gaming Authority, UK Gambling Commission and Curacao. These regulatory entities are widely considered to be the most reputable, and in our opinion, the casinos operating under their oversight deliver unparalleled gambling encounters.

Responsible Gambling in Iceland

The reason that there are so many restrictions behind gambling in Iceland is because of the potential escalation of problem gambling. As such, any offshore casino that wants to accept Icelandic players will need to incorporate responsible gambling protocols to ensure that players have access to all the tools and assistance needed.

As the availability of casinos expands within the nation, the demand for secure online casino platforms has surged - and responsible gambling has emerged as a significant focal point in the country. The best casinos available in Iceland provide an array of precautionary measures - including time constraints, self-exclusion options, deposit limitations, and more. The very best establishments will even collaborate with responsible gambling companies to extend support to anyone dealing with any of these issues.

Problem Gamblers Helpline in Iceland

There are currently no local helplines for problem gambling in the country. However, there are a number of associations offering assistance, including the Nordic Society Foundation for Information about Problem Gambling which covers players in Iceland, Finland, Denmark and the other Nordic states. They are contactable in a couple of ways:

Are Online Casino Winnings Taxed in Iceland?

One of the advantages of needing to play at an offshore casino in Iceland is the fact that they won’t be subject to local taxes. However, they may be liable for income taxes and VAT that will need to be paid on any transactions that are paid into your local bank account.

That being said, it’s a good idea to review the tax laws in the country and learn a little bit more about how it works. So, for now, unless anything changes in the near future, no taxes are technically applicable!

Casino Bonuses in Iceland

Opting to play at the very best casino sites in Iceland will mean you get to enjoy an excellent array of bonuses. First, when you have made your very first deposit, you’ll be able to claim the first welcome bonus - and they should come in thick and fast after that… the more, the better. The selection of existing player bonuses is paramount to rewarding players for their loyalty and keeping them coming back for more.

As such, you should be able to use these rewards to enhance your gambling experience - and, when used wisely, increase your chances of winning even more. Just make sure you read the information on the bonuses, check that they will give you value for money, read through the terms and conditions and only spend money you would have spent. You shouldn’t avoid going over your budget just to claim a bonus.

So, that being said, here are some of the best bonuses to look out for:

No Deposit Bonuses

No deposit casino bonuses are excellent rewards offered by online casinos without requiring you to make any initial monetary deposit. These bonuses give you a risk-free opportunity to explore and enjoy various casino games, potentially winning real money prizes without spending your own funds.

When available you can claim these bonuses when opening a new account - and they often come in the form of free spins or bonus cash, However, they will come with T&Cs, including wagering requirements and often a win cap.

Matched Deposit Bonus:

A matched deposit bonus is where the casino matches a portion of your deposit with bonus money. For example, if you deposit €100 and the casino offers a 100% matched deposit bonus, you would receive an additional €100 in bonus funds. This will give an extra boost to your starting balance - meaning more gameplay and more chance of winning.

Cashback

Unfortunately, in the world of casinos, losing happens. A cashback casino bonus is a promotion where you receive a percentage of your losses back as a cash refund. This bonus offers a bit of a safety net, allowing you to recover a portion of your unsuccessful. If you claim a 10% cashback offer and you lose €100, for example, then you will get an extra €10 to play… which you can use to try and win a little bit of that back.

Free Spins

The free spins casino bonus simply gives you a set number of free (or bonus) spins on designated slot games. You can enjoy these spins without spending your own money and as long as you fulfil the terms, such as the wagering requirements, you get to withdraw the winnings, meaning you can get an even more potentially winning experience.

Reload Bonus

The reload casino bonus is a promotion where you get to receive a bonus when making subsequent deposits after your first bonus. It essentially rewards player loyalty by providing extra money to play with. It is usually a matched deposit bonus that is used to encourage you to keep on playing.

Specials:

A lot of casinos provide customised offers for individual players as well as seasonal promotions. These can encompass a variety of offerings - such as birthday bonuses or themed promotions tied to specific seasons, holidays, or events. To see what’s on offer, you can head to the casino's dedicated bonus page and see what’s in the offing.

Bonus Terms and Conditions

No matter how great the bonus looks, you should always read the terms and conditions before claiming it - as this will ultimately decide how good the actual bonus is and whether or not you will be able to withdraw your winnings. Here are the main things to factor -

  • The wagering requirements - the number of times you will need to wager the bonus money with your own money (usually between 20x and 60x - the lower, the better)

  • The maximum bet you can make with your bonus money

  • The games you can use your bonus money on and the games that contribute to the wagering requirements.

  • The maximum cashout or win limit.

If you fail to read the above terms, then your bonus and any winnings may be voided, so make sure you read them through carefully.

Payment Methods for Online Casinos in Iceland

The best online casinos in Iceland will offer a variety of payment options that allow you to deposit your money quickly and securely. Here are some of the best payment options that are available at many of the top recommended sites:

Skrill

Skrill is a widely used digital payment platform that allows for secure and convenient online transactions. It allows you to send and receive money, make online purchases… and fund your casino account. Skrill offers e-wallet services, which means you can store funds and access quickly, easily and securely - and is thus a popular choice for online casino players.

Neteller

Neteller, like Skrill, is another prominent digital payment system offering e-wallet services. It allows you to transfer money, make online purchases, and put money into your casino account securely. Hugely popular among online casino players, Neteller provides a convenient and efficient way to manage your money.

Bank Transfer

Bank transfers are a more traditional method for casino transactions. You can securely deposit and withdraw funds directly from your bank account to the casino - and while it may take a bit longer compared to other methods, bank transfers are a great option if you prioritise the safety and familiarity of direct bank transactions.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are a popular and widely accepted option for casino transactions in Iceland. They let you easily deposit funds - allowing for immediate access to the very best casino games. Visa and Mastercard are generally the most commonly supported, offering a convenient and familiar way to play at the casino… as long as you make sure you manage payments within a predefined credit limit.

Top Online Casino Games in Iceland

An online casino in Iceland presents a captivating array of games to cater to diverse preferences. You can engage in classic table games such as blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and poker, each available in all sorts of different variants.

Then we have the spinning reels of slot machines - and casinos usually offer hundreds, if not thousands to choose from, including video slots, progressive jackpots and all sorts of themed options.

Fancy a more realistic experience? Then you should look for a casino with live dealer games like live blackjack, live roulette, and live baccarat that allow for interaction with real croupiers via video streaming.

The very best online casinos in Iceland will offer additional options such as scratch cards, keno, bingo and more. Some even offer virtual sports, which brings a sports betting element, while modern twists like 3D slots and unique video poker variations give you an even more exciting gaming landscape.

Ultimately, the best online casinos in Iceland will have something for everyone so you will be able to explore and enjoy a massive range of entertaining and potentially rewarding experiences.

How to Sign Up With an Online Casino in Iceland

Signing up with an online casino in Iceland is a straightforward process.

  1. Firstly, choose a reputable casino that accepts Icelandic players and offers appealing games and bonuses.

  2. Click the "Sign Up" or "Register" button on the casino's website.

  3. Provide your personal details, including name, email, and date of birth.

  4. Create a secure password and choose your preferred currency. Some casinos may require phone verification.

  5. Once registered, log in to your new account, navigate to the cashier section, and make a deposit using a supported payment method.

  6. Be sure to claim any welcome bonuses if applicable.

  7. Now you're ready to explore the casino's games and enjoy the online gambling experience.

That’s it! You’re ready to get playing. Claim your bonus and enjoy your favourite games.

Before You Sign Up - A Checklist

Remember, before deciding which online casino you want to pick, here is a checklist to go through…

  • Check its licence

  • Look through its security practices

  • Selection of bonuses offered

  • The selection of games

  • The game providers

  • Selection of payment methods

  • The terms and conditions

Once you are satisfied that it ticks all the boxes, get playing.

Conclusion

Iceland was a country that actually encouraged gambling - but in recent years that has changed - with many gambling activities being prohibited. As such, if you do wish to play at an online casino, you will need to use a site licensed and based outside of the country.

However, there are plenty of great offshore online casinos that offer a great service for Icelandic players - which we have brought you right here. So, look through our list, look through the bonuses, choose your favourite and get playing today.

 

Contact Details

 

Hákon Ögmundsson

 

+354 464 2909

 

HakonOgmundsson@ggmedialtd.com