Online bingo is legal in Germany but subject to the state monopoly system, as bingo is generally considered a lottery product under German gambling regulations (1). The German Interstate Treaty on Gambling, known as Glücksspielstaatsvertrag (GlüStV 2021), came into effect in July 2021, legalizing and regulating online gambling across all 16 German states (2). Bingo products fall under the lottery category and can be offered online, with private operators permitted to act as brokers for state lottery products (2).
The Gemeinsame Glücksspielbehörde der Länder, commonly known as the GGL, serves as Germany's federal gambling authority established in 2021 and fully operational since 2023 (2). The GGL oversees online gambling regulation nationwide, issues licenses valid for five years, enforces compliance with local laws, and monitors operators for adherence to responsible gambling measures (2). Until January 2023, the gambling regulator of Rhineland-Palatinate was responsible for licensing private lottery operators operating in multiple states, with the GGL subsequently assuming these responsibilities (2).
"Bingo products fall under lotteries, too, and can be offered online. Private operators can act as brokers for state lottery products. Should they operate in multiple states, the gambling regulator of Rhineland-Palatine is responsible for licensing until January 2023, when the newly established GGL takes over."
The Interstate Treaty implements strict player protection measures applicable to online gambling operations, including a €1,000 monthly deposit limit across all licensed operators and mandatory identity verification upon registration to prevent underage gambling (2). Players must also define a self-selected deposit limit during registration, with any subsequent changes taking effect only after a 7-day delay to prevent impulsive deposits (2). Operators holding German licenses must comply with advertising restrictions prohibiting broadcasts promoting virtual slots, online poker, and casino games between 6:00 and 21:00 on television, radio, and other media, while ensuring advertisements are not targeted at minors or vulnerable groups (2).
Source:
https://iclg.com/practice-areas/gambling-laws-and-regulations/germany
https://www.idnow.io/blog/online-gambling-germany-regulations/
Last updated: 28-10-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
