France – Facts, Gambling & Casinos
France is one of the most popular places in the world, due to its capital city, Paris and the Eiffel tower. Before the pandemic, almost 89 million come every year. It is also the biggest country in the whole of Europe. Beautiful places, delicious breads, good food, and wine with an interesting culture. No wonder everyone is so eager to visit.
Although smaller than Texas, almost half of the total population in France are into gambling. There are a lot of gambling places in the country that have a diversity in the games they offer. Roulette and Blackjack, two of the most popular casino games both have French origins. This is why people from France love gambling.
France Casinos & Gambling
French people has started gambling hundreds of years before. It began when the Queen was introduced in the card deck in the 1500s. The 52-card deck used today was designed from a French variation. Blackjack who was known as ‘vingt-et-un’ back in the days, was a game that originated and was played by French templars and also known as the game of Faro.
The two games were introduced to the neighboring country, Great Britain. After, they were shipped to the Atlantic then to the United States. Through the help of the French people living in Mississippi, the card games were then spread towards the rest of the country. In addition, during the 16th century, state lottery was also introduced and applied throughout France.
Aside from that, other similar table games like poker and chemin de fer (almost the same as baccarat) first started in France. It then slowly spread to Europe and later in the United States throughout the years. Aside from having games originate in their country, France is the only state who is the most open to gambling. For example, when slot machines became popular, the government immediately made them legal.
France Online Gambling Laws
Although France’s gambling history going back hundreds of years ago, there are still definite restrictions regarding online gambling which are in place today. For example, even in roulette was invented in France, it is not allowed to be played in the country. Along with online slots and popular online casino game of chances because the lawmakers see them as too addictive.
Thankfully, the French Gambling Act of 2010 was made. It eased up the online gambling area letting competition of state-owned operators although the more popular online games are still forbidden including spread betting and exchanges. Online poker which had rumors of originating in France has been legalized through the act.
On the other hand, Sports betting and horse racing are completely legalized by the French Gambling Act. It was legalized because lawmakers think that players need skills and knowledge to be able to win rather than the games like roulette.
Another thing that was made through the Gambling act was ARJEL or the Regulatory Authority for Online Games. Its mandate is to oversee online gambling in France while taking an active approach. Mainly over the overseas illegitimate operators that accept French players. It also publishes a list of an updated approved online gambling operators.
Payment Methods in France
France being one of the first world countries also has adapted to the newer methods of payment currently existing. However, there are still pros and cons to each of them. For example, crypto currencies which are not regulated or monitored by the government and banks. Still, it is your choice to choose which payment method suits you the best. We have listed below the most common and popular methods you can use.
- Visa
- Mastercard
- Bank Transfer
- Neosurf
- Cashlib
- AstroPay
- Interac e-Transfer
- Trustly
- Neteller
- Ukash
- Klarna
- Crypto Payments
How to Bet Online in France
There might be few legislations governing over online gambling in France, still they currently have 27 online sports betting site managed by 14 license operators. Aside from these licensed operators, you might be sanctioned by the law. However, betting will be easy if you register at online gambling sites which is regulated by ARJEL.
After choosing the site you want to play at, choose the game you want to play at, then choose how much you want to bet and if the betting conditions are advantageous for you. Then, choose your payment method and submit your bet. One key thing to remember is to only register and play at licensed and regulated sites to prevent any hassle.
Online Games in France
Even though there are several skeptics regarding online versions of popular land based games, most of them are legalized. Blackjack, baccarat and slot games are available and legal to play virtually. In gambling, horse racing is one of the most common which became a national pastime for French gamblers.
The world-known Tour de France does not make much of an activity compared to horse racing however, Paddy Power and William Hill offers odds to the gamblers. While handball, where the French National Team is competing for the Olympics, and World Champion has gained quite of the following and has made noise for the sport bookmakers to pay attention to. Further, French football is also one of the top choices for the French gamblers.
FAQ for French Players
Is gambling popular in France?
Yes, it is one of the past time for French people and it has been in their history since hundreds of years ago.
Are gambling winnings taxable in France?
A part of it, yes. If you win more than 1,500 euros, the excess will be subject to a 12% tax.