Switzerland Casino Bonuses

Deposit Match Bonuses

This is probably the most popular type of incentive a virtual casino player in Switzerland can redeem. Deposit match bonuses are often offered to newly registered players, rewarding them for their first deposit or for several initial top-ups of their accounts. This type of casino incentive requires a minimum deposit that players must make to qualify for the bonus. Typically, to withdraw their bonuses, players are required to wager the bonus amount several times. These so-called wagering requirements usually must be met within a certain period of time. Once the bonus funds have been wagered the required number of times, they become available for withdrawal.

Free Spins

Another great bonus variation that Swiss players can often enjoy while playing at online casinos is free slot spins. Whether offered as part of a Welcome Bonus or when a software provider wants to promote new titles, this incentive allows Swiss players to enjoy a few extra rounds on their favorite slots. Winnings from free spins are credited to players’ accounts as bonus funds that must be converted into withdrawable money. This conversion occurs only after players meet the turnover requirement attached to the free-spin promotion.

Online Casino Regulation and Licensing Requirements

The online gambling industry in Switzerland became regulated in 2019 after the Federal Act on Money Games (AMG) was amended in 2018. Under the AMG, online gambling in Switzerland is legal; however, operators that wish to offer casino games or sports betting online must obtain a license from the respective Swiss authority. Currently, only licensed land-based casino operators in Switzerland are allowed to obtain an online casino license. These licenses remain valid until 2024, as the amended law set a six-year expiration period from the date the AMG came into effect.

Once the current licenses expire, a new tender will be held for online casino license holders. Any entity, including offshore companies, can apply for this type of operating license. To do so, they will need a subsidiary domiciled in Switzerland or must partner with a local land-based casino. To ensure a safer online environment for Swiss players, the AMG imposes additional requirements on foreign operators seeking to enter the legal online casino market.

In addition to the other requirements, international providers that wish to operate in Switzerland must demonstrate a good reputation. They must prove that they have not illegally offered casino games to Swiss players during the past five years. Access to any online casino provider that has not been licensed by the Swiss regulator will be blocked by local ISPs.

Online Casino Regulatory Body in Switzerland

The oversight of the gambling industry in Switzerland is the responsibility of the Swiss Federal Gaming Board. The authority can issue two types of casino licenses. The first, called License A – also known as the Grand Casino license – allows a wide range of gambling services, including high-stake casino games and games that feature progressive prizes. This license imposes no limits on bets, deck variety, or the number of machines players can use.

The second type, Gambling License B, is available to a limited number of entities. Spa venues and resort casinos typically fall into this category and may offer up to three gaming tables. Additionally, each game carries a betting cap of CHF 25, and License B holders are not permitted to offer progressive jackpots.

As mentioned above, only operators who own a brick-and-mortar casino license can also obtain an online casino license. Fortunately, both License A and License B holders are eligible for virtual gambling licenses; they simply need to apply for an extension of their existing licenses.