How to Start an Online Casino in France? Casino Licensing in France

France is home to iconic cities, delicious cuisines, and one of Europe’s most promising online gambling markets. A country with a long tradition of betting, state lottery games, and casino gaming, it now has a clear framework for online gambling operations.

But while online gambling is legal, operators face a lot of limitations. This makes legal and technical compliance essential. Entrepreneurs aiming to enter this market must understand licensing rules, player trends, and how to execute casino software development. This guide explains how to legally start your own online casino and stand out in France’s digital gambling space.

• Online gambling is legal in France but heavily regulated, requiring operators to obtain a license from the Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ).
• The French gambling market has shown significant growth, with online gambling accounting for 17.5% of total gross gaming revenue in 2023, highlighting the rising popularity of digital platforms.
• Key steps for launching an online casino include thorough market analysis, obtaining necessary licenses, developing a user-friendly platform, and implementing rigorous security and compliance measures.

Understanding the Online Gambling Market in France

Before launching your online gambling platform, you should have a good understanding of the French gambling environment. The French online gambling industry includes three main regulated categories: sports betting, poker, and horse race betting. Traditional online gambling games like slot machines and roulette are still restricted, but discussions are ongoing regarding their legalization.

The industry is governed by the Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ), which monitors advertising, responsible gaming, and financial transparency. French players tend to favour platforms with strong security, French-language support, and convenient payment options.

If you are working on how to start an online casino business, focus on understanding these preferences. You should also stay updated on any legislative developments that might expand the allowed game categories.

Is Online Gambling Legal in France?

Online gambling is legal in France but strictly limited to certain verticals. The French Gambling Act of 2010 legalized online sports betting, poker, and horse race betting, while casino-style games remain prohibited due to their addictive potential. France is among the few EU countries that continue to ban real-money online casino games like slots and roulette. However, industry stakeholders and lawmakers continue to debate expanding the legal framework, potentially paving the way for online casino games in the near future.

The Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ) is the primary regulatory authority for all online gambling activities, while land-based casinos remain under the Ministry of the Interior. Despite tight controls, France maintains a stable and growing market. This proves that regulation and innovation can coexist for responsible operators.

Overview of the French Gambling Market

France’s gambling market is well-structured and mature. It reached €14 billion in gross gaming revenue (GGR) in 2024, marking a 4.7% increase from 2023. This growth was largely fueled by the expanding online sector and major sporting events such as Euro 2024 and the Paris Olympics. The online gambling segment alone grew by 12% year-on-year, reaching €2.6 billion. Online sports betting led the way with €1.8 billion in GGR and contributed 43% of the sector’s total growth.

Sports betting remains the dominant activity. Football accounts for 58.2% of online betting GGR, followed by tennis, basketball, and rugby. In-play betting and esports wagering are gaining popularity, especially among younger audiences. Players aged 18–24 now represent nearly one-third of all online bettors. High internet penetration, smartphone adoption, and rising disposable incomes have further improved access to online platforms.

While the regulatory structure enhances public trust, it also raises concerns about excessive gambling, particularly among vulnerable groups. Domestic operators dominate the market, with FDJ United and PMU holding a combined 62.7% share. However, international operators like Betclic, Unibet, and Winamax are also active.

Brief History of Online Gambling in France

France’s path to legal online gambling began due to pressure from the European Union in the early 2000s. The French Gambling Act was finally introduced in 2010 to legalize online horse race betting, sports betting, and poker.

Established in 2010, the Autorité de Régulation des Jeux En Ligne (ARJEL) initially regulated the sector to ensure operator compliance and consumer protection. ARJEL was then replaced by the ANJ in 2020 for increased oversight and stronger responsible gaming measures.

Online Gambling Regulations in France

France has one of the most rigorous regulatory frameworks for online gambling in Europe. The French Gambling Act of 2010, along with the French Homeland Security Code and the Internal Security Code, defines what forms of gambling are permitted and outlines obligations for operators.

To operate legally, gambling platforms must obtain a license from the ANJ and comply with strict obligations under Article L.320-1 of the Internal Security Code. These include measures focused on consumer protection, fraud prevention, and gambling addiction control. Licensed operators are taxed at 37.7% on betting stakes and must implement age verification, spending limits, and responsible gambling tools, as detailed in Decree No. 2010-518.

The legal framework also imposes penalties for non-compliance. Under Article 410-1 of the French Criminal Code, illegal gambling operations may incur fines up to €90,000 and up to three years of imprisonment. The ANJ remains proactive in enforcement, ordering internet service providers to block 340 illegal and fraudulent websites in 2024 alone.

Additional protections stem from the 2017 Digital Republic Act, which strengthens GDPR compliance and mandates the secure handling of player data. Advertising is also tightly regulated. Article L.320-9 prohibits marketing that targets minors or vulnerable individuals. Violations are punishable by fines of up to €100,000.

Legal Requirements and Licensing for Online Gambling Business in France

To legally operate an online gambling platform in France, you must register your business, obtain a license from the Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ), and comply with strict gambling laws. This section discusses the legal obligations key to securing the best gambling licenses and launching a compliant, trustworthy platform in the French market.

Obtaining a License

Obtaining a gambling license from French authorities involves a rigorous process. Operators must apply through the Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ) and meet the legal requirements outlined in the Internal Security Code. The license application involves submitting a comprehensive business plan, financial guarantees, anti-money laundering protocols, and technical specifications demonstrating platform integrity and player protection measures.

Casino operators must also undergo background checks on key personnel and prove the platform complies with responsible gambling practices, such as age verification, betting limits, and self-exclusion tools. The licensing fee ranges from €5,000 to €20,000, depending on the license type and operator size. License holders also pay ongoing compliance fees.

The ANJ assesses applications within 4-6 months. Licenses are valid for five years and renewable upon review. This is done to ensure consumer protection and market integrity. To succeed in this process, it’s essential to understand how to secure a gambling license and prepare all required documentation with precision.

Registering a Company

Company registration is one of the prerequisites for obtaining a French gambling license. Most applicants choose to establish either a SARL (limited liability company) or SAS (simplified joint-stock company). Both structures offer legal protection and flexible management options.

The process involves drafting company statutes, registering with the French Trade and Companies Register (RCS), and getting a SIRET number. You’ll also need a French business bank account and a local representative.

Compliance

Maintaining compliance is essential for operating an online casino in France. As a licensed operator, you must follow strict rules set by the ANJ. These include anti-money laundering (AML), fraud prevention, and responsible gambling measures.

You are also required to verify player identities, enforce age restrictions, and offer self-exclusion tools. Regular audits are conducted to ensure platforms meet legal and technical standards. Compliance with the EU’s GDPR is also mandatory to protect user data. If you fail to meet these requirements, you may have to pay a fine or lose your license.

Building a Successful Online Casino Business in France

While preparing for future casino legalization, one needs to know that setting up a successful online casino in France involves meticulous planning and execution. From market analysis to financial planning, choosing the right software provider, and developing a user-friendly website or app, each step is crucial. Currently, this applies to legal verticals such as sports betting, poker, and horse race betting. However, platforms can be built with modular architecture to support online casino games in the event of legalization.

The next sections offer a roadmap to help you establish a thriving online casino business.

1. Market Analysis

A thorough market analysis forms the foundation of a successful online casino. Identifying the target market, analyzing competitors, and understanding player preferences are crucial steps. The French gaming industry is diverse, with players showing interest in various gaming activities, including online sports betting, poker, and traditional casino games. Understanding these preferences helps tailor your offerings to meet the demands of French consumers.

We also recommend evaluating local and international competitors by reviewing their products, marketing strategies, and user engagement methods. Find their strengths and weaknesses and use your findings to develop a stronger strategy.

2. Budgeting and Financial Planning

A project as big as an online casino requires careful budgeting and financial planning. Create a clear budget that covers licensing fees, software costs, marketing, staff salaries, and ongoing platform maintenance. You should also factor in compliance expenses, including audits and legal support.

Develop a financial model that projects revenue, operating costs, and expected return on investment. This helps you monitor performance and adjust strategies early. It’s also wise to set aside a contingency fund for unexpected issues. Careful budgeting ensures stability and supports long-term growth in a highly regulated environment.

3. Choosing a Reliable Software Provider

Choose a software development company with a proven track record in building secure, scalable, and user-friendly gaming platforms. Some features to look for include fast loading times, mobile responsiveness, and a wide selection of games.

The provider should also support strong backend systems for payments, fraud prevention, and data protection. Consider whether the company offers options like live dealer games or support for blockchain integration, as they can improve transparency and security. A well-built platform promotes user satisfaction and retention.

4. Creating a Website or App: Design and Development

Your platform’s design directly impacts how users interact with your casino. A clean, responsive interface with fast loading times and easy navigation is a necessity. French players want a seamless experience across devices, so mobile optimization is a must.

Similarly, you should focus on user-friendly layouts, clear game categories, and intuitive features like search and filtering tools. Security should be built into the foundation, using SSL encryption and secure payment systems. For detailed guidance, refer to these resources on how to start an online gambling website and how to start a casino app.

5. Selecting Games and Game Providers

To appeal to French players, focus on providing a wide range of sports betting options, including football, tennis, and rugby. You should also add live betting features to enable real-time wagers during ongoing matches. For online poker enthusiasts, offering various formats like Texas Hold’em and Omaha can cater to different skill levels and preferences.

For now, operators should focus on legal verticals (e.g., poker, sports betting), but partnering with providers who offer broader game portfolios can future-proof your platform in case casino games are legalized. We also recommend regularly updating your game offerings and introducing new features to retain existing players and attract new ones. Additionally, providing demo versions of games allows users to familiarize themselves with the gameplay before committing real money. This builds trust and encourages participation.

6. Payment Methods and Transaction Security

Safe and flexible payment options are vital for player trust. French players prefer well-known methods like credit cards, bank transfers, and e-wallets such as PayPal and Skrill. Some players are also open to using cryptocurrencies if the process is secure and transparent.

Multi-currency support and fast processing times also improve user satisfaction. However, all transactions must follow anti-money laundering (AML) rules. Use secure payment gateways with SSL encryption to protect financial data. Finally, make sure your system includes tools for monitoring suspicious activity and blocking fraud.

Launching and Operating an Online Casino in France

Once your platform is live, you need to focus on how to keep your day-to-day operations smooth. This section touches on how you can keep the wheels turning.

Ensuring Security and Responsible Gaming

To avoid a security breach, you should invest in strong encryption tools like SSL and TLS to keep user data safe. Smart gambling operators also add extra layers of protection through multi-factor authentication (MFA) and secure payment systems.

Responsible gaming is another thing you should take seriously. Gaming operators are required to provide tools such as deposit limits, session reminders, and self-exclusion options. Following ANJ guidelines goes a long way in preventing problem gambling and protecting vulnerable users.

Customer Support and Retention

Good customer support helps build player loyalty. Users should be able to get help with payments, account issues, or technical problems without fuss. You can achieve this by offering fast and clear responses in French through live chat, email, or phone.

But that’s not all. You can make your players feel special by offering bonuses, loyalty programs, and personalized offers. Building a sense of community through social media, forums, or newsletters is also a good idea. Players who feel supported and appreciated are more likely to return.

Financial Management and Performance Monitoring

The importance of financial management and performance monitoring in any business can’t be overemphasized. Smart operators track their income, expenses, and cash flow regularly. To make things easier, you can use software tools to generate profit and loss reports, spot trends, and plan.

Additionally, regular audits and internal controls help detect issues early and ensure compliance with tax and regulatory rules. Monitor key metrics like player lifetime value, churn rate, and return on marketing spend. Staying on top of performance lets you adjust your strategy and keep your business on track.

Marketing and Promotion Strategies for Online Casino Business in France

Effective marketing is key to attracting and keeping players. In France, this means working within strict advertising rules while still reaching your audience. You can build your visibility with SEO, targeted ads, and social media. However, all messaging must follow ANJ guidelines, especially when it comes to protecting minors and promoting responsible gambling.

Bonuses and promotions are also important. Offer welcome packages, free bets, and loyalty rewards, but be transparent about the terms. You should track the return on investment (ROI) for each campaign so you can fine-tune your strategy and focus on what works.

The Future of Online Gambling in France

The French online gambling industry is set for major growth, especially if online casinos are legalized in 2026. This could add an estimated €1.5 billion to the currently €2.6 billion sector. Operators who prepare early by building modular platforms and staying informed on legal developments will be best positioned to capitalize on any future regulatory shifts.

Player habits are shifting toward mobile-friendly, immersive games, with growing interest in live dealer and skill-based formats. Operators that use data analytics for personalized experiences and adopt new technologies like virtual reality (VR) will stand out.

Open an Online Casino in France with CrustLab!

The French online gambling market has huge potential, but you need to get things right from the start as an operator. You need expert support to navigate complex regulations, build a reliable platform, and meet player expectations.

At CrustLab, we provide end-to-end iGaming development services. Whether you’re looking to launch a mobile-first sportsbook or preparing for the future legalization of online casinos, our team can help you build a secure, scalable, and fully compliant platform.

Contact us to get started!