- On this page:
- Safe and legal gambling options available in Iceland 2023
- Lotteries in Iceland
- How to Play the Lottery in Iceland
- Íslensk Getspá Sports Betting
- Sports you can bet on with Íslensk Getspá
- History of Casinos In Iceland
- What is the Icelandic Gaming and Lottery Authority?
- Popular Online Offshore Casinos and Betting Sites in Iceland
- Top Online Casino Games for Icelanders in 2023
- Iceland Poker in 2023
- Recommended Online Casino Deposit Methods
- Final Thoughts on Legal Gambling in Iceland
- FAQ
Safe and legal gambling options available in Iceland 2023
The country has strict regulations that prohibit both domestic and offshore online gambling operators from offering their services to Icelandic residents. The only legal forms of gambling in Iceland are the national lottery and limited sports betting provided by the state-owned entity, Íslensk Getspá. However, please note that laws and regulations change fast in this industry. Let's take a closer look at the legal state options for Gambling in Iceland:
Lotteries in Iceland
Even though gambling in general is illegal in the country, there are a few lotteries which are allowed. Lottery games are regulated by the Icelandic Ministry of Welfare and are only allowed to be run by the state-owned lottery organization Veðurstofa Íslands. The jurisdiction of the lottery games is set by the Icelandic Parliament and the legalization of them is decided by the government.
These lotteries are normally based on betting on the outcome of certain sports events, such as football or horse racing, as well as other international and national competitions. Although the prizes for the lotteries are not as high as in other countries, they are still popular among the people of Iceland.
How to Play the Lottery in Iceland
The lottery in Iceland is commonly known as "Getspá" or "Lotterí Iceland." Here's how the lottery typically works:
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Ticket Purchase: Individuals who wish to participate in the lottery can purchase tickets from authorized retailers across Iceland. These retailers include convenience stores, gas stations, and lottery booths.
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Game Selection: The lottery offers various games and ticket options, each with different rules and prize structures. Common game types include scratch-off tickets, number draws, and instant win games. Players can choose the specific game they want to play and purchase the corresponding ticket.
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Number Selection: Depending on the game, players may need to select numbers or symbols on their tickets. For example, in a number draw game, players typically choose a set of numbers from a predetermined range.
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Drawing and Results: After the ticket purchase period ends, the drawing takes place, and the winning numbers or symbols are determined. The results are typically published on the official Íslensk Getspá website, announced on television, and displayed at authorized retailers.
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Prizes and Payouts: If a player's ticket matches the winning numbers or symbols, they are eligible to claim a prize. The prize amount depends on the specific game, ticket type, and the number of winning tickets. Players can claim their prizes at authorized retailers or through specific procedures outlined by Íslensk Getspá.
Íslensk Getspá Sports Betting
Write about the sports betting opportunities available through Íslensk Getspá in Iceland
Íslensk Getspá, or Icelandic Gambling, is a popular sports betting option for residents of Iceland. It offers a wide range of betting opportunities across many different sports, from soccer, basketball and hockey to golf, tennis and motorsports.
With Íslensk Getspá, Icelanders can bet on both domestic and international sports events, giving them access to the best odds and greatest selection of betting markets. The website also provides news updates, analysis and betting tips to help punters make informed decisions. With a safe and secure platform, Íslensk Getspá provides a reliable and enjoyable betting experience for its customers. Furthermore, it is a legal and regulated sports betting provider, ensuring that Icelandic players are able to enjoy a fair and responsible gambling environment.
Sports you can bet on with Íslensk Getspá
Iceland is a country known for its passion for sports and outdoor activities. While preferences may vary among individuals, here are the top online betting sports that Icelanders like to bet on:
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Football (Soccer): Football is immensely popular in Iceland, and many Icelanders engage in legal sports betting on domestic and international football leagues, including the Icelandic Úrvalsdeild, European competitions like the UEFA Champions League, and major international tournaments like the FIFA World Cup.
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Handball: Handball holds a significant place in Icelandic sports culture, and legal betting on handball events, including domestic leagues and international competitions like the European Handball Championship and the Olympic Games, attracts considerable interest from Icelandic bettors.
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Basketball: Basketball has gained popularity in Iceland, and legal betting on basketball leagues and tournaments, both domestic and international, including the Úrvalsdeild karla (men's premier league) and international competitions like the FIBA Basketball World Cup, provides opportunities for Icelandic sports bettors.
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Horse Racing: While horse racing isn't a major sport in Iceland itself, Icelanders can legally bet on horse racing events happening in other countries. They can wager on races from around the world, including prestigious events like the Kentucky Derby, Royal Ascot, and the Melbourne Cup.
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Motorsports: Motorsports, such as Formula 1 racing and rally events, have a dedicated following in Iceland. Icelandic sports bettors can legally place wagers on various motorsport competitions, predicting race winners, podium finishes, and championship outcomes.
History of Casinos In Iceland
Gambling has been a part of Icelandic culture for centuries, and casinos in particular have been a popular form of entertainment since the mid-19th century. The first known casino in Iceland opened in Reykjavik in 1875 and quickly became a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. However, in the early 20th century, casino gambling was banned in Iceland and all establishments were closed down.
The ban on casino gambling was eventually lifted in the late 1940s, and casinos began to reopen, albeit with strict regulations imposed by the government. Since then, the number of casinos in Iceland has grown steadily, with the most recent opening in 2008. Currently, there are 16 casinos in Iceland, all of which offer a variety of slot machines, card games, and other gambling activities.
Gambling in Iceland is in some capacity legal but is strictly regulated and monitored by the Icelandic Gaming and Lottery Authority to ensure that all operations are conducted in a responsible and safe manner. The Authority also ensures that all services are provided in English (UK) language to make sure that all guests are able to understand the rules and regulations of each establishment.
What is the Icelandic Gaming and Lottery Authority?
The Icelandic Gaming and Lottery Authority is the official regulatory body for all gambling activities in Iceland. It is responsible for issuing licenses, monitoring compliance, and ensuring a safe and secure online gambling environment for all players in the country. It is also responsible for ensuring that all online casinos in Iceland comply with the regulations set forth by the Icelandic Gambling Act.
The Icelandic Gaming and Lottery Authority also provides a wide range of gaming services, including slot machines, video lottery terminals, online casinos, and legal gambling in Iceland. All online casinos in Iceland must be licensed and regulated by the Icelandic Gaming and Lottery Authority, and all sites must adhere to strict safety and security protocols. With the Icelandic Gaming and Lottery Authority, players in Iceland can rest assured that their online casino experience is secure and legal.
Popular Online Offshore Casinos and Betting Sites in Iceland
Online gambling in Iceland may be illegal, but that doesn't stop Icelanders from enjoying a wager online from overseas jurisdictions. Here are 10 of the most popular online gambling sites for Icelanders in 2023.
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- Weekly CashBack is calculated on all deposits which were made over the previous 7 days.
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Top Online Casino Games for Icelanders in 2023
Here are some popular casino games that Icelanders commonly enjoy:
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Online Slots: Online slot games are immensely popular among Icelandic players. They offer a wide range of themes, exciting features, and various jackpot opportunities.
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Blackjack: Blackjack is a classic card game that appeals to many Icelandic players. It offers strategic gameplay and the potential to win against the dealer.
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Roulette: Roulette is another favoured casino game, with its anticipation and chance-based nature. Players can bet on different outcomes, such as specific numbers, colours, or ranges.
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Poker: Online poker has a dedicated following among Icelandic players. They can participate in various poker variants, including Texas Hold'em and Omaha, and engage in cash games or tournaments.
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Live Casino Games: Live casino games bring the authentic casino experience to Icelandic players' screens. They can enjoy live dealer versions of blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and other popular games, enhancing immersion and interaction.
Iceland Poker in 2023
Iceland is a country that has a thriving poker scene and a passionate community of players who regularly take part in tournaments and events. The Icelandic Poker Federation organizes the annual Icelandic Poker Championship, as well as a wide range of smaller tournaments such as the Icelandic Open, the Icelandic Winter Open and the Icelandic Spring Open. These events have become increasingly popular over the years and attract both professional and amateur players.
Online poker is also legal in Iceland, with many of the major international sites such as PokerStars, Full Tilt and 888Poker accepting Icelandic players. Of course, players must be over 18 years old to play. There are also a few land-based casinos in the country, although these are mainly aimed at tourists rather than locals.
For those looking for a legal and entertaining way to gamble in Iceland, poker is definitely one of the top options. With a huge selection of tournaments and events, both online and off, there is something for everyone in this vibrant poker community.
Recommended Online Casino Deposit Methods
Gambling in Iceland is strictly regulated and legal gambling sites are closely monitored. However, there are still plenty of legal gambling options for players in Iceland, with a range of payment methods available including credit and debit cards, bank transfers, e-wallets and prepaid cards.
Visa and MasterCard are both widely accepted at legal gambling sites in Iceland, providing players with a secure and convenient way to make deposits and withdrawals. Bank transfers are also accepted, giving players the flexibility to move money between their bank account and their gambling account.
For an even faster, more secure payment method, players can use e-wallets such as Skrill and PayPal. These are widely accepted at legal gambling sites in Iceland and allow players to make deposits and withdrawals quickly and securely.
Paysafecard is another popular payment method in Iceland, allowing players to make deposits using a prepaid card. This is an excellent option for players who don’t want to use a bank account or credit card.
Finally, some legal gambling sites in Iceland accept cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum. This is a great option for those looking for an extra layer of security when gambling online.
No matter which payment method you choose, you’ll be sure to find a secure, legal gambling site in Iceland. With a range of payment methods available, you’ll be sure to find one that suits you.
Final Thoughts on Legal Gambling in Iceland
Legal gambling in Iceland is a complex issue, and with the rise of enthusiasm for online casinos in Iceland, there are a few considerations that must be taken into account.
There are no physical casinos in Iceland, but there are a few online casinos that are available to players in the country. The regulation of these online casinos is still in its early stages, and it is important to ensure that any online casino in Iceland is legitimate and trustworthy before engaging in any online gambling activities. With the right precautions, legal gambling in Iceland can be an enjoyable and safe experience.
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