With the rise of online gambling, many UK players have come across the term “casino not on GamStop.” But what exactly does it mean? Why do some players choose these casinos over UK-licensed ones? In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about casinos not on GamStop — their benefits, risks, and how they differ from UKGC-licensed operators.
What Is GamStop?
GamStop is a free self-exclusion service for players in the United Kingdom. Managed by the National Online Self-Exclusion Scheme (NOSES), it allows new non GamStop casinos users to block themselves from all UK-licensed online gambling websites for a chosen period — 6 months, 1 year, or 5 years.
All UK-licensed casinos must be part of GamStop by law, as required by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC).
What Is a Casino Not on GamStop?
A casino not on GamStop is an online gambling site that operates outside of the UK’s jurisdiction and does not participate in the GamStop program. These casinos are typically licensed in other jurisdictions, such as:
- Curaçao
- Malta (though some are affiliated with GamStop)
- Gibraltar
- Anjouan or Costa Rica (less common)
This means that players who are self-excluded via GamStop can still access and play at these sites.
Why Do Players Choose Casinos Not on GamStop?
Here are some common reasons why players look for these casinos:
- Bypass Self-Exclusion: Some players want to reverse their GamStop exclusion early, which is not possible under UKGC rules. Non-GamStop casinos provide access without restrictions.
- Fewer Limits: These casinos often have higher betting limits, fewer deposit restrictions, and more generous bonuses.
- More Payment Methods: You’ll often find cryptocurrencies, international e-wallets, and even credit card options that are restricted in the UK.
- No UK ID Checks: While most reputable sites still require verification, they may be more lenient than UKGC-licensed casinos.
Risks of Playing at Casinos Not on GamStop
While there are benefits, there are also significant risks:
- No UK Protection: You won’t have access to ADR (Alternative Dispute Resolution) or UK legal protection.
- Problem Gambling: These sites allow players to gamble even if they’re self-excluded, which can worsen gambling addiction.
- Scam Risk: Not all non-GamStop casinos are reputable. Some may delay withdrawals or operate without proper licenses.
- Unregulated Advertising: These sites often advertise aggressively, sometimes misleadingly, without UK oversight.
How to Choose a Safe Casino Not on GamStop
If you’re considering one of these casinos, here are some tips:
- Check for a Valid License (e.g., Curaçao eGaming).
- Read Player Reviews and feedback on forums like Trustpilot or Reddit.
- Look for Responsible Gaming Tools, even if they’re not part of GamStop.
- Test Customer Support before making a deposit.
- Start with Small Deposits to test the withdrawal process.
Alternatives to Casinos Not on GamStop
If you’re feeling the urge to gamble while on GamStop, consider these alternatives:
- Gamblers Anonymous or TalkBanStop for support.
- Delay Gratification — remind yourself why you self-excluded.
- Try non-casino games or activities that give you similar dopamine rewards without gambling risks.
Final Thoughts
Casinos not on GamStop can offer flexibility and variety, especially for players outside the UK or those seeking fewer restrictions. However, they also come with greater risks — especially for vulnerable or self-excluded players. Always approach these sites with caution, do your research, and make informed decisions.