Belgian gamblers are looking for ways to circumvent new gambling rules
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27 Jul 2025 •
Reading time: 2 minutes Many Belgian gamblers are ignoring the strict rules by simply using a VPN. This allows them to hide their location and still access foreign casinos without a licence. These VPN services are easy to find and often cost only a few pounds a month.
Foreign payment options also play a role. Well-known e-wallets and cryptocurrencies are widely used to deposit money on illegal gambling sites. This allows players to avoid traditional bank checks and gamble freely outside Belgian legislation.
A 27-year-old gambler from Antwerp says:
‘Since the advertising ban and the age limit increase to 21, I just use a VPN. I can transfer money quickly via crypto. No one checks.’
Belgian players share their experiences of circumventing the rules
Illegal sites are very attractive. They often offer higher bonuses, more games and no betting limits. Many Belgian players openly say that they prefer to gamble there.
A 23-year-old player from Ghent says:
‘Those Belgian limits are ridiculously low. On foreign sites, I can just play however I want. Everything is in Dutch, so it feels the same.’
Others see it mainly as a protest. They feel restricted by the strict rules and are deliberately looking for alternatives.
Star Casino and PepperMill are trying to keep their players on board
Belgian legal casinos are feeling the pressure. Since the new rules came into force, Star Casino and PepperMill have been running targeted campaigns to retain players.
Star Casino is focusing on loyalty programmes and exclusive promotions for regular customers. They also offer live casino options that are only available to registered Belgian players. PepperMill Casino is mainly trying to retain customers with games developed in-house, such as Dice Games.
An insider at a Belgian casino operator says:
‘We are no longer allowed to advertise everything, but we are fully committed to development in order to create the best product on the Belgian market!’