Foreign gambling sites with Malta license: Safety, Bill 55 & Top MGA Casinos

Foreign gambling sites with a Malta license are supervised by the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA). For Dutch players, this means access to higher bonuses and games without CRUKS connection. The MGA license is internationally strict, but due to legislation such as Bill 55, it does not offer direct legal protection in the Netherlands. Players must pay 30.5% gambling tax themselves and miss out on the guarantees of the Kansspelautoriteit. However, you do benefit from features like Bonus Buy and Autoplay that are banned here.

What are foreign gambling sites with a Malta license?

Foreign gambling sites with a Malta license are supervised by the Malta Gaming Authority and fall outside the Dutch CRUKS register. These platforms give Dutch players access to international games and higher deposit limits, but require a critical look at consumer protection. Providers comply with strict European standards for fair play, but offer less direct legal recourse than KSA-licensed casinos. The difference between a locally licensed casino and a Maltese platform lies not only in the offering, but especially in the legal frameworks within the European Union.

The role of the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA)

The Malta Gaming Authority, based in Valletta, is the central regulator for the iGaming industry on the island. This body is similar to the Dutch Kansspelautoriteit, but operates within a broader European framework influenced by directives of the European Union. The MGA supervises casino operators, but also monitors software suppliers and payment processors to prevent money laundering and fraud. This makes the MGA one of the most respected regulators worldwide, although the recent introduction of Bill 55 has raised questions about the independence of enforcement relative to other EU member states.

For players, an MGA License guarantees independent audits of the Random Number Generators (RNG) and the financial stability of the operator. From a compliance perspective, we note that enforcement is less rigid than with the UKGC. The MGA balances between strict regulation and keeping the business climate attractive for companies. Players fall under European complaint procedures, but must be aware that protection during conflicts is handled differently than in the Netherlands. The MGA requires operators to maintain sufficient capital reserves to guarantee payouts, a requirement that is often stricter than in offshore jurisdictions such as Curacao.

Additionally, the MGA plays an important role in harmonizing game rules within the European Union. Although each member state is allowed to apply its own national legislation, the MGA license provides a basic level of trust that is recognized across borders by payment providers and software developers. This network of trust is essential for the operation of large international casino groups operating from Malta. The authority works with other European regulators to exchange information on suspicious transactions and operators that do not comply with the rules. This offers an extra layer of security for the player, albeit without the direct intervention of Dutch authorities.

Why do casinos choose to establish themselves in Malta?

Malta offers a fiscally and operationally favorable climate that is essential for major players like Gaming Innovation Group. These organizations benefit from lower tax rates and an established infrastructure for online gambling, which contributes significantly to the Maltese economy. For Gaming Innovation Group and other large operators, this location offers economies of scale that are difficult to achieve in stricter jurisdictions. The concentration of expertise on the island creates an ecosystem where legal advice, technical support, and marketing services connect seamlessly.

Additionally, Maltese legislation allows operators to offer innovative features that are restricted elsewhere. For instance, 'Bonus Buy' is often allowed under Maltese rules, whereas this would be blocked in the Netherlands. This attracts players looking for more variety and freedom, although this comes with the risk of less strict responsible gambling tools compared to the KSA. The flexibility in regulation enables casinos to respond faster to market trends, such as the rise of crypto casinos or gamification elements that would take longer to get approved in stricter markets like the Netherlands or the United Kingdom.

The tax advantage is not the only driver; access to the European market via the principle of mutual recognition also plays a role, although this principle is complex in the gambling sector due to national monopolies and licensing requirements. Still, Malta remains a hub because it strikes a balance between regulation and commercial freedom. Operators can test and refine their products here before targeting more heavily regulated markets. This strategic position makes Malta an indispensable link in the global iGaming industry, with the European Union indirectly benefiting from the high standards maintained on the island, even if direct legal enforceability for individual players from other member states is limited.

Types of MGA licenses: B2C and B2B

It is important to distinguish between the different license types within the Maltese system. A Remote Gambling Licence is the umbrella term for licenses that enable online services, but the specific implementation determines the scope. This distinction is vital for players to understand exactly who is responsible for their money and playing experience.

B2C Gaming Service Licence: This license enables an operator to offer gambling services directly to end users (players). Casinos you know as brand names usually operate under this license. The holder of this license is the point of contact for customer service, payouts, and ensuring fair play. They bear the primary responsibility for compliance with anti-money laundering guidelines and the protection of vulnerable players. B2B Critical Gaming Supply Licence: This license is intended for suppliers of critical software, such as RNG systems or platform technology. A B2B Critical Gaming Supply Licence guarantees that the underlying technology is fair and safe, before it even reaches a B2C operator. Think of providers of slots, live casino tables, or payment gateways. Without this license, a company is not allowed to supply critical components to B2C licensees.

So players also play indirectly with B2B suppliers. If a game provider does not have a valid B2B Critical Gaming Supply Licence, a legal MGA casino is not allowed to offer their games. This division provides an extra layer of technical due diligence, although the ultimate responsibility for payouts remains with the B2C holder. For the player, this means that when you play a game by NetEnt or Evolution at an MGA casino, you are assured that both the casino and the game provider are supervised by the same authority, which increases the integrity of the game.

Additionally, there are specific licenses for hosting gaming software and facilitating betting exchanges, but for most Dutch players, the B2C and B2B licenses are the most relevant. Checking which entity holds the B2C license is an important step in verifying a casino's reliability. Often, you see that large holding companies hold multiple B2C licenses for different brands, which offers efficiency but also means that problems at one brand can sometimes have repercussions for other brands under the same umbrella.

Are gambling sites with a Malta license legal and safe for Dutch players?

Foreign gambling sites with a Malta license operate under a different legal umbrella than Dutch providers, meaning they do not fall under the Remote Gambling Act. Although playing at these platforms is not punishable for individual Dutch citizens, direct enforcement by the Kansspelautoriteit is lacking. This creates a situation where players do have access to international games, but waive the protection offered by the self-exclusion register Cruks and local consumer rights. Safety therefore depends entirely on the integrity of the Malta Gaming Authority and recent, controversial legislative changes on the island.

The legal gray area for Dutch players

The Remote Gambling Act forms the foundation of the Dutch market and requires providers to have a license from the Kansspelautoriteit. Casinos with an MGA license do not meet this requirement and are therefore not allowed to actively target the Dutch market. For the player, this means you are participating in a 'gray area': you are not acting illegally by playing, but the provider is acting in violation of Dutch law by not having a KSA license.

This has concrete consequences for the service. While the Kansspelautoriteit imposes strict requirements on fair play and customer protection, an MGA casino falls outside this supervision. Players must realize that they themselves are responsible for complying with tax obligations, such as paying gambling tax on winnings, because the Dutch tax authorities have no automatic link with these foreign entities. The Netherlands Enterprise Agency (Rijksdienst voor Ondernemend Nederland) plays no role in facilitating these transactions; the administrative burden rests entirely on the shoulders of the user.

The role of the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) is often underemphasized in this context, but it is important to mention what they do not do. The RVO facilitates innovation and sustainable entrepreneurship, but has no mandate to advise consumers on the use of foreign gambling services or to recover damages from non-Dutch entities. Players therefore cannot turn to the RVO for help in disputes with Maltese casinos. This contrasts with the situation at KSA-licensed casinos, where the government does provide certain safeguards. The lack of an official role for agencies like the RVO emphasizes that the player is on their own when navigating the complex regulations surrounding foreign gambling sites.

Furthermore, the absence of a Dutch license means that the Netherlands Enterprise Agency also does not share data with these platforms regarding business practices or consumer complaints. There is no central complaints register at the RVO that can be used to check the reputation of an MGA casino. Players must therefore conduct their own research via independent review platforms and forums. This self-reliance has become a necessary skill for anyone choosing a casino outside Dutch jurisdiction. The realization that no government agency like the RVO or the KSA serves as a safety net must weigh into the decision to play at an MGA casino.

Bill 55: Why your money is less protected

A critical development undermining the safety of foreign gambling sites with a Malta license is the introduction of Bill 55. This Maltese legislation states that operators acting in accordance with local rules cannot be held liable for claims from other EU countries. This means that if a casino refuses a payout to a Dutch player, the Maltese government can ignore this without consequences.

The European Commission has indicated that Bill 55 may violate European regulations, but so far this has changed little about the position of the Malta Gaming Authority. For you as a player, the risk is real: in the event of conflicts, you legally have very little ground to stand on. While the Kansspelautoriteit in the Netherlands acts as an arbitrator in disputes, the MGA often rejects player complaints from non-serviced markets based on jurisdiction. You are therefore dependent on the goodwill of the casino, not the law.

The impact of Bill 55 is especially felt with larger amounts. For small wins, a reputable MGA casino will often still pay out to avoid risking its license and reputation. But with substantial sums, where a casino might risk insolvency or suspect fraud, Bill 55 can be used as a shield against foreign court rulings. This makes it risky for Dutch players to leave large amounts in Maltese accounts. It is wise to withdraw winnings regularly and not accumulate them, so that potential losses in a conflict remain limited.

CRUKS and self-exclusion: What are you missing with MGA?

The most profound difference for vulnerable players is the connection with the self-exclusion register Cruks. In the Netherlands, all legal providers are required to be registered with this system to combat gambling addiction. MGA casinos do not have any technical or legal link with the Cruks self-exclusion register.

This means that someone who has self-excluded due to problematic gambling behavior can still easily access Maltese platforms. Although the Malta Gaming Authority does have guidelines for responsible gambling, the central, mandatory registration that applies in the Netherlands is lacking. For players struggling with gambling addiction, this poses a significant risk as the barrier to stop is lower. The Kansspelautoriteit cannot intervene if a player, despite a Cruks registration, continues to play with a foreign provider. It is therefore crucial to be aware of this gap in protection before choosing a site without a CRUKS connection.

Top foreign casinos with Malta license without CRUKS

For Dutch players wishing to operate outside the KSA jurisdiction, foreign gambling sites with a Malta license offer a regulated alternative that often provides more flexibility than local providers. These platforms do not fall under the CRUKS register, making registration and limits smoother, but they do require a critical look at the specific license holder and protection mechanisms.

Dicespin and OhaCasino: Sportsbook and Cashback

Dicespin is a recent newcomer positioning itself as an all-in-one platform for both casino games and sports betting. The brand stands out for its extensive focus on esports, including titles like CS2 and Valorant, making it attractive to a younger demographic looking for variety alongside traditional slots. Although Dicespin is often associated with international licenses such as the Kahnawake Gaming Commission, it focuses on speed and ease of use for the player.

OhaCasino, on the other hand, differentiates itself by returning financial benefits directly to the player through cashback structures. This casino is known for its 'wager-free cashback', a rare feature where return on losses is not subject to high wagering requirements. Where many competitors link bonuses to complex terms, OhaCasino chooses transparency. Both brands illustrate how niche markets (esports at Dicespin, cashback at OhaCasino) are served within the broader ecosystem of foreign providers, though their licensing structures may differ from the strict MGA standard.

Spinalto and Betizy: Large bonuses and variety

Spinalto Casino is a prominent name in the market of foreign providers, but requires nuance regarding its licensing status. Although it is often compared to MGA providers due to its user-friendliness and support for cryptocurrencies and iDEAL, Spinalto operates under an Anjouan license. This choice allows the casino to offer more flexible bonus structures, such as high welcome packages, but does mean that consumer protection differs from that under the Malta Gaming Authority. Spinalto remains popular due to fast payouts and a modern interface, despite Anjouan's less strict regulation compared to Malta.

Betizy Casino contrasts this as a provider that does operate explicitly under an MGA license, often through holding companies such as L.C.S. Limited. Betizy combines a sleek design with a robust game selection and large bonuses, with the MGA license acting as a quality guarantee for fair play and segregated player funds. For players seeking the security of a European license without the restrictions of CRUKS, Betizy offers a middle ground: the reliability of Malta combined with the freedom of an international platform.

Emerging names: Taikaspins, Spinyoo and more

The market for foreign gambling sites with a Malta license is constantly refreshed by brands like Taikaspins, Spinyoo, LikesBet Casino, and Dazzlehand Casino. Taikaspins has quickly positioned itself as a reliable player with a high welcome bonus, with the MGA license ensuring fast and friendly customer service. The platform excels in reliability and transparent player tools, which is essential for trust in a non-CRUKS environment.

Spinyoo and LikesBet Casino follow a similar strategy by focusing on a wide range of games and user friendliness. LikesBet Casino is often mentioned in reviews on platforms like MoneyBob as a solid choice for Dutch players looking for MGA-regulated environments without local restrictions. Dazzlehand Casino completes this list by offering a hybrid selection of slots and sports betting, suitable for players who don't want to choose between the two disciplines. This new generation of casinos, which also includes ChalkWins and SciBet, demonstrates that innovation and design go hand in hand with the compliance requirements of the MGA. However, players should always verify the current license status themselves, as regulations and ownership structures can change.

Advantages of MGA casinos: Bonuses, games, and freedoms

Foreign gambling sites with a Malta license offer Dutch players significant added value due to the absence of strict KSA restrictions on bonuses and game features. While the Dutch regulator has banned features like Bonus Buy and Autoplay to prevent addiction, these options remain fully accessible under MGA regulations. This freedom translates directly into a more diverse game offering and higher betting limits for experienced players who want more control over their bankroll.

Banned features: Bonus Buy and Autoplay

The most visible differences between an MGA casino and a Dutch provider lie in the technical features of the slot machines. The Bonus Buy is a feature that allows players to buy direct access to a slot's bonus game, without having to spin hundreds of times first. Under the Kansspelautoriteit, this function is strictly prohibited, but at foreign gambling sites with a Malta license, it is a standard option that makes the playing experience more dynamic.

Additionally, Autoplay, which automatically spins the reels with preset limits, is completely disabled at Dutch providers. MGA platforms do allow this function, which is useful for players who want to test strategies or simply play longer without constant interaction. These freedoms require personal responsibility; there are no mandatory pauses or hard deposit limits of €700 per month like in the Netherlands.

Game selection from top providers like NetEnt and Evolution

The game selection at MGA casinos is dominated by international giants that can offer their complete portfolio without local restrictions. NetEnt provides classic video slots known for high RTP and innovative mechanics, while Pragmatic Play ensures a constant stream of new high-volatility titles. These providers often integrate the aforementioned Bonus Buy options seamlessly into their games, something that would be technically blocked under KSA licenses.

For fans of live dealer games, Evolution Gaming (often referred to as Evolution) is the undisputed market leader. At MGA casinos, you can find the complete range of Evolution games, including variations like Lightning Roulette and Game Shows, which are sometimes labeled as 'too fast' or 'too risky' in stricter jurisdictions. The availability of these games is often facilitated by a White Label Platform. This is a technical infrastructure where an operator rents software and a license from a larger provider, allowing them to quickly launch a complete casino with games from NetEnt and Evolution without having to go through all the technical certifications themselves.

A specific example of such an infrastructure provider is Aspire Global. This company not only supplies software but also operates as a major white-label provider for numerous MGA casinos. By using Aspire Global's technology, smaller brands can still access the extensive game libraries of top providers and comply with the compliance requirements of the Malta Gaming Authority. This ensures a standardized, safe environment where players have access to thousands of slots and live tables.

Higher deposit limits and VIP programs

In addition to gameplay freedoms, foreign gambling sites with a Malta license offer financial flexibility that is unthinkable in the Netherlands. There are no legal deposit limits, allowing high rollers to deposit unlimited amounts. This opens the door to extensive VIP programs with personal account managers, faster payouts, and cashback structures that are banned by the KSA. Players must, however, be aware that with this freedom they remain responsible for monitoring their own play behavior, since external tools like CRUKS are not connected.

Payments, payouts and tax liability at MGA casinos

At foreign gambling sites with a Malta license, financial management lies entirely in the hands of the player. Unlike Dutch KSA casinos, where tax is processed automatically, you must file your own gambling tax on winnings above the threshold here. Payment options vary from locally popular methods like iDEAL to anonymous Crypto transactions, but each method carries specific KYC verifications and payout speeds that you must understand in advance to avoid surprises.

Payment methods: iDEAL, Crypto and e-wallets

The choice of payment method determines not only convenience, but also the anonymity and speed of transactions at an online casino Malta. iDEAL, an open banking payment service linking directly to your Dutch bank account, is preferred by many Dutch players due to its familiar interface. Spinalto Casino, for example, is known for supporting iDEAL, making it easy for locals to deposit funds without intermediaries. However, not all MGA providers offer this local method; some restrictions may limit use to international alternatives.

For players prioritizing speed and privacy, Crypto (cryptocurrency) is a powerful alternative. These digital currencies, like Bitcoin or Ethereum, allow users to process transactions outside the traditional banking system. Spinalto Casino integrates Crypto seamlessly into its platform, which often results in faster processing times compared to fiat currency. In addition, e-wallets like Trustly and MuchBetter offer a middle ground: they act as a buffer between your bank and the casino, meaning your banking details do not have to be shared directly with the gambling site. Paysafecard remains a popular option for those wishing to practice strict budget management via prepaid vouchers, although withdrawals to this medium are usually not possible.

The landscape of payment methods at MGA licensees is more diverse than at KSA casinos. While Dutch sites are often limited to a handful of controlled options, foreign platforms often offer more than 17 different methods, including combinations of sports betting and casino games. It is crucial to check whether your chosen method is available for both deposits and withdrawals, as asymmetry is common here.

Payout speed and KYC verification

The speed of payouts at MGA casinos is heavily dependent on the KYC (Know Your Customer) procedure. This is a mandatory verification step where the casino verifies your identity, address, and payment method to prevent money laundering. While this increases safety, the KYC procedure can lead to delays, especially during the first large withdrawal or when documents are submitted unclearly. Spinalto Casino advertises fast payouts, but even with efficient operators, you must take into account a processing time of 24 to 72 hours for approval, excluding bank transfer times.

From a compliance perspective, this delay is not a bug, but a feature of strict AML (Anti-Money Laundering) rules. MGA licensees are legally required to flag suspicious transactions. If you choose Crypto, payouts are generally faster because the blockchain transaction is immediately visible and requires fewer intermediary banks. With traditional methods like bank transfers or Trustly, it can take several business days for the money to arrive in your account. It is therefore wise to submit all requested documents (ID, proof of address, bank statement) immediately after registration to minimize waiting times later.

Tax return: The 30% gambling tax

A critical difference between playing at a KSA or MGA licensee is tax responsibility. At Dutch casinos, the operator deducts the gambling tax and remits it to the Tax Administration. At foreign gambling sites with a Malta license, you as a player are responsible for the declaration yourself. Current rates require you to pay 30.5% of your net profit if it exceeds the tax-free threshold. This means you must keep accurate track of your balance: winnings minus stakes.

The gambling tax of 30.5% is a significant amount that you must calculate yourself and include in your annual income tax under 'Other income'. Failure to complete this self-declaration can lead to high fines and back taxes by the Dutch tax authorities. Since MGA casinos do not share data with the Dutch Tax Administration, the burden of proof lies entirely on you. Therefore, keep all transaction overviews, bonus history, and proof of payouts carefully.

The lack of automatic deduction also means that you cannot appeal to the consumer protection of the KSA in the event of a tax dispute. While the MGA does oversee fair play and RNG checks, the tax handling falls outside their jurisdiction for Dutch residents. Be aware of this risk: what you gain in higher bonuses or lower restrictions can be canceled out by the administrative burden and high tax pressure that you must regulate yourself. Therefore, always play with the realization that net profit only becomes reality after deducting that 30.5%.

Comparison: MGA versus Curacao, Kahnawake and Anjouan

Foreign gambling sites with a Malta license offer a middle ground in terms of security: stricter than offshore options, but less protective than the Dutch KSA. The MGA License guarantees fund segregation and fair play, while alternatives like the Anjouan License or Kahnawake Gaming Commission often offer lower operational costs but also less player recourse. For Dutch players, it is crucial to understand that an MGA license does not involve direct enforcement by local authorities.

MGA vs Curacao eGaming: Safety and speed

The most important difference between an MGA license and a Curacao eGaming license lies in the enforceability of player rights. The Malta Gaming Authority applies strict rules regarding the separation of player money from corporate capital, a requirement stemming from European directives such as CRD IV for capital requirements at financial institutions. In Curacao, this protection is limited; funds are not always segregated, which carries risks in the event of operator insolvency.

In addition, the approach to responsible gambling differs. MGA casinos must proactively monitor problematic gambling behavior, although they are less intrusive than the KSA with its CRUKS system. Curacao platforms have almost no bonus regulation and allow more freedom, but lack formal complaint procedures that are binding on the operator. Players often choose Curacao for its anonymity and crypto options, but sacrifice the legal security that the MGA does provide through its dispute resolution mechanisms. It is essential to realize that Curacao eGaming primarily focuses on the integrity of the operator, not on individual consumer protection.

The role of Kahnawake and Anjouan licenses

Licenses from the Kahnawake Gaming Commission and the Anjouan License operate in a different segment than the MGA. The Kahnawake Gaming Commission, based in Canada, is known for its long history but has a less transparent enforcement policy for European players compared to Malta. Casinos like Dicespin fall under this jurisdiction, meaning that disputes are often settled outside European jurisdiction.

The Anjouan License is a newer player that has become popular due to low costs and minimal bureaucracy. Operators like Spinalto Casino and OhaCasino hold this license, enabling them to quickly offer innovative features and crypto payments without the heavy compliance burden of the MGA. However, the Anjouan License offers virtually no protection against unpaid winnings; there is no central fund for compensation as there is with the MGA. From a compliance perspective, this is a significant risk: whereas the MGA oversees Anti-Money Laundering compliance, this is often merely a paper exercise in Anjouan. Players must be aware that these licenses do not grant access to the European market under the same strict conditions as CRD IV requires for bank-like guarantees.

Large groups: Betsson, Kindred and 888 Holdings

Large international conglomerates like Betsson Group, Kindred Group, and 888 Holdings often operate with multiple licenses depending on the target market. These companies typically choose the MGA license for their international branches because it meets the high demands of European partners and payment providers. Betsson Group, for instance, complies strictly with Anti-Money Laundering and CRD IV guidelines to protect its reputation and banking relationships.

Kindred Group and 888 Holdings use their MGA entities to serve players outside regulated national markets (such as the Netherlands or Sweden), benefiting from harmonization within the EU. Although these groups are also active in stricter jurisdictions, their MGA arm offers more flexibility in terms of bonuses and game selection. Trust in these big names stems from their stock market listing and mandatory transparency, which offers an extra layer of security on top of the MGA license itself. Still, the advice holds: always check which specific entity is behind the casino, as not all subsidiaries of Betsson Group or 888 Holdings fall under the same level of supervision.

About This Article - Editorial Standards

Author:
Sarah Weber - Casino Tester & Bonus Analyst

Factually reviewed by:
Dr. Markus Hoffmann - Senior iGaming Compliance Analyst

Last updated: 2026-08-12.

This article on "foreign gambling sites with Malta license" was written by Sarah Weber and factually reviewed by Dr. Markus Hoffmann. Both regularly update the content for changes in regulation, licensing and bonus terms. All references to licences, regulators and statutes link to public sources (the local gambling regulator, the applicable local gambling statute).

About the Author

8+ years reviewing casinos, 200+ personally tested platforms across the EU and globally. Former member of the eCOGRA Player Advocacy Program (2018-2022). Specialty: wagering requirements, withdrawal workflows, customer-support evaluation.

About the Reviewer

12+ years in the iGaming industry, including 5 years as a compliance consultant for licensed operators across multiple regulated markets. PhD in Economic Mathematics. Focus areas: bonus mathematics, wagering analysis, and player-protection systems.

Responsible Gambling

Gambling can be addictive. If you feel you are losing control of your play, please reach out to the relevant problem-gambling helpline or use the national self-exclusion register (the relevant national self-exclusion register). Set personal deposit and loss limits BEFORE you play with real money. Operator pauses and cooldown tools exist to keep play sustainable.

Legal Notice

The information in this article is provided for editorial and comparison purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Players are responsible for compliance with local regulations.

Related articles

• Dicespin is a recent