Gamblers in the UK have been faced with more intense regulations over the last few years. For example, in 2020, there was a ban on credit card use. Then recently, in September 2024, a stake limit of £2 for 18-24-year-olds and £5 for those over 25 was introduced for online slot games. These are just a few examples of how the government is putting emphasis on safer and more manageable gambling habits.

Whilst this is appreciable for those who struggle with issues related to gambling, the limitations and interruptions can reduce the enjoyment of gambling for those who want to game freely. 

All platforms operating under the UKGC licence are obliged to work with GamStop – 

a self-exclusion scheme that helps people take better control of their gambling habits. Non-GamStop casinos don’t use this scheme and aren’t regulated by local authorities. With that in mind, let’s look at why non-GamStop casinos have become so popular here in Wales and across the UK. 

The appeal of non-GamStop casinos 

Wider variety of gaming options

Most of the sites on a list of non-GamStop casinos have a more extensive collection of games than sites licenced locally in the UK. These games are played all over the world, offering better, round-the-clock entertainment. The large selection of games caters to a vast range of player preferences, with everything from slots to live dealer experiences available. 

Better bonuses

Casinos not on GamStop typically have more liberal welcome bonuses. They also boast more frequent promotions and more varied bonus types, and many even offer no-deposit bonuses. 

Extensive payment options 

A broader selection of payment options is available with non-GamStop casinos, including credit cards and cryptocurrency banking. This makes it much easier for users to bet however they wish and with options like bitcoin and cryptocurrency, an increased number of crypto fans have been drawn into non-GamStop casinos. 

More freedom 

GamStop casinos have more restrictions in place that prevent unhealthy gambling habits. However, these limitations interrupt gameplay and take some of the enjoyment out of the experience. With non-GamStop casinos, there is much less regulation. You don’t have to deal with mandatory timeouts or suffer through waiting periods of no gameplay. The increased freedom allows you to play however little or much you want, whenever you want. 

No self-exclusion restrictions

Casinos not on GamStop are so popular as they bypass active self-exclusions from GamStop sites. Once you activate a self-exclusion, there is no way of cancelling it. You have to wait until the set period of time has ended. 

Self-exclusion is a great tool for those who struggle with managing their gambling habits, but it can be problematic for others. If you fail to contact GamStop after the minimum exclusion period has ended, which gives you a further seven years of activation, or if you need less time away than intended, you’re left without the possibility of using online casinos. 

This is where people turn to non-GamStop casinos as there are no self-exclusion restrictions in place. You are free to gamble even with an active self-exclusion. 

Faster and bigger withdrawals 

Especially with payment methods such as Bitcoin or other cryptocurrency banking, you can access your winnings much faster than typical GamStop casinos. Most also allow you to withdraw more at a time – giving you access to larger portions of your winnings.

Easier verification

Most GamStop casinos have a lengthy verification process that can take days or even weeks to complete. Non-GamStop casinos are typically much less strict with their verification processes, offering users faster and easier access to online gambling. 

The downsides to non-GamStop casinos 

Casinos not on GamStop have a number of great advantages but like everything, there are some downsides. 

Poor management of gambling habits 

One of the biggest problems with non-GamStop casinos is the lack of limitations for those with troublesome gambling habits. With higher wagers, unlimited access, a diverse selection of games, and more payment options, it’s much more difficult for people to manage their habits. However, players are encouraged to make the most of the site’s deposit limit features and set time limits for how long they can play each day and week.

Limited legal protection

Non-GamStop sites aren’t illegal in the UK. However, as they are not regulated by UK authorities, when it comes to settling a dispute or handling issues with fair play, there’s almost no protection. That’s why it’s important to only play at sites that are licenced by a reputable body, such as the Curaçao Gaming Control Board or the Malta Gaming Authority.