The UK Gambling Commission introduced several significant rule changes effective January 2026. Here's what changed and what it means for UK casino app players.
1. The 10× Wagering Cap
The most impactful change: no UKGC-licensed operator can apply a wagering requirement greater than 10× the bonus amount to any promotional offer. Applies to welcome bonuses, reload bonuses, free spins, no deposit bonuses, and cashback promotions.
EV = Bonus − (Wagering × Bonus × 0.04)Pre-cap (40x): £100 → EV = −£60 | Post-cap (10x): £100 → EV = +£60
2. Tightened Affordability Checks
Operators must conduct enhanced financial vulnerability checks on players whose spending patterns suggest potential harm. This has led to more operators requesting bank statements from players depositing above certain thresholds.
3. Advertising Restrictions
Bonus T&Cs must now be displayed in a standardised format with wagering requirements prominently stated. You should see the wagering multiple clearly on any bonus offer at a UKGC-licensed app.
Any operator still showing bonuses above 10× wagering to UK players is in breach of UKGC conditions. Report them to gamblingcommission.gov.uk.
