Online poker is legal in Germany under a regulated licensing system administered by the Joint Gambling Authority of the Federal States (GGL). The Fourth Interstate Treaty on Gambling, enacted in 2021, has legalised online casinos, poker, and sports betting under a tightly controlled licensing system. This represents a significant shift from the previous restrictive approach, as operators can now obtain specific licenses for online poker through the GGL (1).
The licensing process for online poker is managed by the State Administration Office of Saxony-Anhalt, which handles applications alongside virtual slot machine licensing. Gambling operators wishing to offer online poker games can apply for a separate license through the GGL. The regulatory framework requires operators to comply with strict technical and compliance standards, including connection to the LUGAS supervision system for monitoring and player protection (2).
"Online gambling, e.g., online casino or online poker, is not generally illegal in Germany. However, providers need a German gambling licence for a legal offer."
German residents must be at least 18 years old to participate in online poker, and the GGL maintains a whitelist of authorized operators to help players identify legal providers. For taxation purposes, recreational poker players are generally not subject to tax obligations, while professional players who consistently participate in high-stakes tournaments must declare their earnings. The regulatory system emphasizes player protection through mandatory deposit limits, self-exclusion options, and comprehensive oversight of all licensed operators.
Source:
https://www.gluecksspiel-behoerde.de/de/
https://iclg.com/practice-areas/gambling-laws-and-regulations/germany
Last updated: 27-09-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
