1. Safety & Licensing
We never recommend an online casino unless it meets clear safety standards and that starts with proper licensing. For casinos operating in Germany, this means holding a valid license from the Gemeinsame Glücksspielbehörde der Länder (GGL). This national regulator ensures that sites meet strict legal requirements for fairness, security, and responsible gambling. We also look for SSL encryption, independent testing of games and payouts, and clear data protection policies. If a site doesn’t meet these basic safety requirements, it doesn’t get listed.
1.1 License from the Gemeinsame Glücksspielbehörde der Länder
In Germany, online casinos are required to hold a valid license from the
Gemeinsame Glücksspielbehörde der Länder (GGL) – the national regulatory authority established under the 2021 Interstate Treaty on Gambling (GlüStV). A GGL license confirms that the site is legally approved, regularly monitored, and meets high standards for player protection, data security, and fair gaming.
In markets without a national regulator, some sites rely on international licenses from trusted authorities. But in Germany, the GGL is the standard. We only review casinos that hold a valid license from a reputable source. While no license is a guarantee of perfection, it does mean the casino is subject to proper oversight which is a crucial starting point for safe real money play.
1.2 Independent Regulations for Fairness
Licensed online casinos are required to prove that their games are fair. Independent testing agencies – such as eCOGRA, GLI, and iTech Labs – audit games to make sure outcomes are random and not influenced by the casino. These agencies also review payout percentages and publish reports showing how much games return to players over time. Fairness testing is a key part of regulation and helps ensure that players are not at a disadvantage when they play.
1.3 Technical Security
Any site handling real money and personal information must take security seriously. We check that every casino we list uses industry-standard SSL encryption to protect player data during logins, payments, and account activity. As part of our review process, we also look at who issues the site’s security certificates and whether the casino follows basic data protection practices. If a site fails on security, it doesn’t make it past this stage.
2. Games & Software Requirements
The quality of a casino’s game selection is one of the first things we look at. We check for variety across categories, including slots, table games, and live dealer titles, and expect a balance of both quality and quantity. We also assess the underlying software to ensure that games load quickly, run smoothly, and work consistently across desktop, tablet, and mobile devices.
2.1 Available Game Variety
We review each casino’s game selection to see what is available and how well it caters to different types of players within the limits of German regulation. Licensed sites in Germany must comply with national rules, which means some categories like live dealer games and progressive jackpots may be unavailable. Nevertheless, we still expect a strong variety of approved content, including virtual slots, table-style games, and options like video poker. We also check for a diverse mix of themes, features, and betting limits. Casinos that work with multiple game developers tend to offer better variety and a more polished experience, even within regulatory boundaries.
2.2 Trusted Software Developers
We check which software developers a casino works with, as this directly affects game quality, fairness, and variety. Well-established developers like Playtech, Microgaming, and NetEnt are known for producing reliable games with strong visuals and consistent performance. Casinos that partner with multiple developers tend to offer a broader mix of styles, themes, and gameplay features. This helps ensure there’s something for different player preferences, whether you’re looking for simple slots or more advanced game mechanics
2.3 High Quality Gambling and Casino Apps
Mobile access is essential for most players, so we check how well each casino performs on phones and tablets. Some casino sites offer dedicated apps for iOS or Android, while others focus on fully responsive browser-based platforms. The best sites maintain solid performance across devices, with quick load times and straightforward layouts. You may find a few fewer games on mobile, but in most cases the core features remain available, including payments, promotions, and account settings.
4. Payment Options for Deposits and Withdrawals
To play real money games, you’ll need to fund your account using one of the payment methods offered by the casino. Most sites accept debit cards, e-wallets, prepaid options, bank transfers, and in some cases, mobile payment services. It’s worth noting that not all deposit methods can be used for withdrawals. As part of our review process, we look at which payment options are supported, as well as how clear the limits, fees, and processing times are. We highlight sites that make it easy to deposit and withdraw without unnecessary delays or restrictions.
4.1 Fast and Secure Deposits
When reviewing deposit options, we look for speed, reliability, and how well the process protects your financial details. A good casino should process deposits instantly or within minutes, and clearly state any limits or fees involved. We also check whether the site uses secure connections and recognisable payment providers. Some methods, like e-wallets or prepaid cards, offer an extra layer of privacy by keeping your bank details out of the transaction entirely. Clear instructions, visible confirmation messages, and easy access to deposit history also play a part in our evaluation.
4.2 Efficient and Reliable Withdrawals
We assess how easy it is for players to withdraw their money – not just whether withdrawals are available. That includes checking processing times, payment method availability, minimum and maximum withdrawal amounts, and any verification requirements that could cause delays. A good casino makes its withdrawal process clear and consistent. Most require you to use the same method you used to deposit, unless that option doesn’t support withdrawals. We pay close attention to how long it takes for funds to reach players and whether any hidden restrictions apply. Sites with reliable, transparent cashout systems are rated more favorably.
4.3 Diverse Payment Methods
We check which payment methods are available at each casino and how well they cover different user preferences. This typically includes debit cards like Visa and Mastercard, e-wallets such as PayPal, Neteller, or Skrill, and other options like prepaid cards or mobile payments. The range of supported methods affects how flexible a site is – especially for players who prefer not to share card details directly. We also note which methods can be used for both deposits and withdrawals, since not all support both directions. Sites that offer a broad and clearly explained set of payment options tend to score higher in this area.
4.4 How We Score Payment Systems
We evaluate each casino’s payment system as a whole – not just the number of options offered. That includes how clearly the site presents deposit and withdrawal terms, whether payments are processed quickly and securely, and how accessible the methods are for different types of players. We also consider minimum and maximum limits, supported currencies, and whether players can expect consistent payout times. Casinos that combine flexibility, transparency, and reliable processing tend to rate higher in this area.
5. Reliable Customer Support
Customer support plays an important role in how we rate online casinos. Whether it’s a technical issue, an account query, or a question about payments, players should have access to help when they need it. We check which support channels are available, how quickly the team responds, and whether the information provided is actually useful. The best sites offer live chat as standard, along with email or phone support, and invest in proper training so their teams can handle issues clearly and efficiently.
5.1 Customer Support Features
We check how easy it is to reach the support team and how well they handle player questions. Live chat is now the standard, but we also note whether phone or email support is available and how long responses typically take. We also assess how useful the support actually is. Are the advisers helpful? Do they provide accurate answers, or just scripted replies? Casinos that make it easy to get help – and train their staff to offer it properly – tend to score higher in this area.
6. Responsible Gambling
We expect every licensed casino to take responsible gambling seriously. That includes offering tools to help players set limits on deposits, spending, and playing time, as well as clear access to timeout and self-exclusion options. We also check whether the site provides links to support services for those experiencing gambling-related harm. While most casinos now meet the minimum requirements, we rate sites more favorably if they go further – for example, by offering personalized limits or promoting responsible play throughout the site, not just in the footer.
6.1 Organizations That Help Prevent Gambling Addiction
In Germany, licensed online casinos are required to provide clear information about responsible gambling and offer access to approved support services. This includes links to organizations such as
BZgA (Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung), which operates the national helpline and online platform
Check-dein-Spiel.de. Additional support is available through regional services and counseling centers. We check whether a casino clearly highlights these resources, includes self-exclusion tools like OASIS, and promotes responsible play. Sites that meet or exceed these obligations are rated more favorably in our reviews.
6.2 Self-Exclusion
Self-exclusion is a tool that allows players to block access to their casino account for a set period or permanently. During this time, they won’t be able to log in, deposit, place bets, or receive marketing messages from the casino. We check whether casinos offer self-exclusion options and explain them clearly. While some regions have national self-exclusion systems, others rely on casino site-level tools. In either case, this feature is an important step for players who need help staying in control.
7. Want to Be Reviewed by BestCasinoSites.net?
We regularly evaluate new online casinos to consider for inclusion on our site. If you operate a licensed casino that meets the standards outlined on this page, you’re welcome to request a review.
Each application is assessed thoroughly. We check licensing, security, game providers, bonus terms, payment systems, customer support, and more. If you’d like your casino to be considered, please visit our submission page for full details on the review process.