As a fast growing iGaming market, Hungary is full of options for players. There are plenty of payment methods and online casinos alike. These options are increasing by the minute since offshore online casinos can legally accept players from Hungary
This basically means that selecting the best online casino in Hungary may not be a smooth ride. But that’s what Correct Casinos was made
At Correct Casinos, we thoroughly examine every facet of each casino in Hungary. We inspect them from top to bottom, ensuring that they meet our quality standards. Only after this can we be sure that they are the best.
In this article, we’ll take you through everything about gambling in Hungary. We’ll also look at the best Hungarian online casinos. In addition, we’ll delve into the most popular casino games in Hungary.
Through online casinos, many Hungarian gamblers pursue their gambling interests outside of the nation. These websites support the Hungarian Forint and provide players with a ton of fun bonuses and free spins. Despite these features, are online casinos legal in Hungary?
Unquestionably, Hungary has had its fair share of struggles when it comes to gambling. Before 1998, only specific bookmakers on the high street were authorized to accept bets on sports.
Szerencsejáték Zrt marked the beginning of online sports betting in Hungary after launching its website. This is still the only legal sportsbook that serves Hungarian gamblers.
Even after joining the EU, Hungary still prohibited offshore operators from offering services to Hungarians. Additionally, the Hungarian government imposed rigid limitations. It mandated that transactions from overseas gaming organizations be blocked by local banks.
The Hungarian government ultimately permitted foreign businesses to provide their gaming services to gamblers in Hungary. This was after years of international and domestic pressures on the Hungarian government.
To offer sports betting to Hungarian gamblers, offshore operators had to fork up a hefty payment of HUF187, 959, 200. Individuals living in Hungary can now legally wager on sports through foreign companies.
However, the nation continues to go above and beyond to block offshore websites or to forbid their operation there. It accomplishes this by levying high taxes. Despite this, Hungary’s gambling industry is expanding and giving players more choices.
Operating under Rabidi N.V., Casino Infinity debuted in 2023. It’s a legitimate gambling platform with a license from Curacao, accepting players from Hungary and several other countries..
The casino is available in over 20 languages. This includes Magyar. English, spoken by about 20% of Hungarians, is also available.
You are free to choose from a list of 15+ payment methods. This includes MuchBetter, Bitcoin, and Paysafecard. Also, there are over 20 currencies to pick from, including HUF.
The minimum amount you can deposit is HUF 6000, and the highest deposit amount is HUF 1,000,000. Meanwhile, the minimum amount you can withdraw is HUF 9000, and the maximum is HUF 1,000,000.
As its name implies, Casino Infinity provides unlimited room for fun. Aside from 8700+ slots, you can play over 300 table games. You’ll also find 400+ live casino game tables.
Notably, Casino Infinity has collaborated with only the best software developers. They include Microgaming, Pragmatic Play, and Spinomenal. So, you can be sure of crisp graphics and fluid animations.
Since 2022, Pribet Casino has kept its doors open to players from hundreds of countries. This includes Hungary. It’s a Curacao-licensed platform operating under New Era B.V.
There are over 10 language options you can choose from, including Hungarian. English is also available. Fortunately for Hungarian players, HUF is among the 45+ currencies the site supports. So, making transactions will be a breeze.
The minimum amount you can deposit and withdraw per transaction is HUF 3900. Meanwhile, the maximum deposit amount stands at HUF 950,000.
Pribet is crypto-friendly. Besides credit cards, prepaid cards, and e-wallets, it supports popular digital currencies. These include Bitcoin and Ethereum.
The game library comprises the best titles from top software developers. BGaming, NetEnt, and Play ‘N Go are well-known studios at Pribet. If you’d like to hone your skills, try out the demo versions. You don’t have to deposit real money. Even better, you can play for as long as you wish.
We cannot wrap up the list of the best Hungarian casinos without mentioning Nine Casino. Established in 2021, this legitimate gaming platform continues to operate with a Curacao license.
With over 20 language options available, you can’t miss the Hungarian dialect on the list. Also, there are several variants of English.
Signing up at Nine Casino is super easy. Simply enter your name and email and hit the sign-up button. You’ll then need to enter a few personal information.
The minimum deposit amount is HUF 5700, with the maximum going up to HUF 760,000. Meanwhile, the minimum withdrawal amount per day is HUF 19,000. As for the maximum, you cannot withdraw past HUF 1,140,600 daily.
Over 15 currencies are available. HUF is one of them. So, no need to worry about conversion fees if your currency is on the list.
The games department features over 6800 titles from reputable software providers. Slots, jackpots, lottery and table games – they are all available.
Altacore N.V. is one of the best gaming companies. It owns and operates Flappy Casino under a license from Curacao. You, therefore, don’t have to worry about the legitimacy of this site.
There are over 10 language options here. Unfortunately, the Hungarian language is not available. You can, however, turn on Google Translate for the site.
Flappy accepts several currencies, including the Hungarian Forint. So, making deposits and withdrawing your winnings shouldn’t be a problem. Furthermore, all deposits and withdrawals have zero transaction fees. That means you’ll keep all your winnings.
Only the best software publishers have produced the games here. This guarantees you only top-notch graphics and engaging gameplay.
You don’t have to sign up or log in to enjoy your favourite game. Take advantage of the demo versions, which don’t require you to deposit real money.
Licensed by Curacao, the National casino is a digital masterpiece created by experienced gamblers. It was founded in 2021 and is operated by Techsolutions N.V.
A government-approved auditing committee conducts periodic audits of the National Casino because it’s a fully licensed and governed establishment. This ensures the security, fairness, and integrity of its services.
From the ground up, National was designed to be a completely mobile-optimized gambling establishment. You may take full advantage of all of its capabilities on any mobile device.
Notably, National casino treats players like family. All players from Hungary get access to exclusive bonuses, fiercely contested promotions, and unique tournaments.
When it comes to games, the National casino truly knows how to entertain. All the top brand-new online casino games are included in its hand-picked product catalog.
There are 4K live-streamed games with actual dealers. Even more, you’ll find top-tier slot games from over 120 renowned developers.
National casino supports more than 15 different languages. Fortunately, the Hungarian language (Magyar Nyelv) is among the supported languages.
As for payments, National casino supports over 26 different currencies. Luckily, the Hungarian Forint is among the accepted currencies. This saves you the costs associated with currency exchange.
You can withdraw and deposit money at the National casino via different methods. These include, cryptocurrencies, credit/debit cards, and e-wallets.
Like the National casino, Bizzo is also managed by Techsolutions N.V., a Curacao-licensed company. Bizzo Casino, which debuted in 2021, is a top-notch casino in every manner.
Your first impression of the Bizzo online casino will be its cutting-edge style. The website features a sophisticated UI with simple navigation and high-quality visuals. All features load rapidly, and the animations are of console quality.
Bizzo goes to considerable lengths to ensure preferential treatment for frequent Hungarian gamblers. Notably, it has a several-tier VIP program. You receive a different reward when you level up, and the higher your level, the bigger the reward.
Additionally, Bizzo Casino takes numerous precautions to protect customer information and financial activities. It employs the most recent SSL encryption technology. Additionally, a strict privacy policy guarantees that no unapproved individuals can access your information.
When it comes to banking, Bizzo supports over 15 currencies, including the Hungarian Forint. This is convenient as it saves you currency conversion fees.
The Bizzo Casino’s customer care team is accessible 24/7 through a variety of communication methods. Support is available by direct emails or a live chat service that is available around-the-clock. Although Bizzo supports Magyar language, the customer support only accepts 6 languages, with the Hungarian language excluded.
Ever wished for a digital palace where you could spend hours having fun? Slots Palace, as its name suggests, is the place to go. The casino made its debut in 2020 and rapidly became a well-known name in the online gaming industry.
The aesthetic of Slots Palace is clean, fashionable, and pleasing to the sight. It adopts the look of a physical hotel, with a variety of opulent furnishings and decorations.
The promos and bonuses at the online casino Slots Palace are exceptional. It makes an effort to attract new Hungarian gamblers with high rewards.
You don’t need to download any apps to play games or take advantage of bonus offers. The Slots Palace website is excellently optimized for any device you could be using.
At Slots Palace, you can find all types of games. These include slots and live dealer games. Slots Palace collaborates with some of the reputable game developers that provide high-quality games.
It is a casino owned by Rabidi N.V. that supports over 14 languages. This includes the Magyar language. It also supports the Hungarian currency, eliminating the need for currency exchange.
To protect the information you share on the website, Slots Palace employs the TLS 1.2 secure connection protocol. This is done in addition to utilizing cutting-edge firewall technology and following GDPR legal guidelines.
Players from Hungary have a huge selection of online gambling sites to choose from. This has both good and bad aspects. You can never be sure which site is secure, even if you're an expert player. When gaming online, you want an all-in-one casino. This will save you the time of jumping from one site to another looking for the right casino. Luckily, we, at Correct Casinos, have come up with some criteria you should consider. Before choosing a Hungarian online casino, do the following:
1
Confirm the casino’s security
When playing at a casino, you should feel secure knowing that your personal and transaction information is safe. Confirm is the casino uses Security Sockets Layer to protect the data of its players. This should be in addition to Two-factor authentication (2FA) or FaceID.
2
Go through the casino’s game library
The main reason Hungarian players join casinos is to get entertained. There is no better way a casino can guarantee entertainment than having a wide game variety. You should go for a Hungarian online casino that offers numerous high-quality games from reputable developers.
3
Language is also important
Before joining a casino, it’s important to read the site’s terms and conditions. This will help you make a decision whether you’d want to join the casino or not. You’d, therefore, want to go for a casino that supports Magyar language, among other languages.
4
Test the site’s customer support
It’s so unfortunate that many gamblers underestimate the benefits of a dependable customer support. Since it’s your first time on a site, you’re likely going to encounter some challenges at whatever stage. A professional, friendly, and round-the-clock customer support team will always come in handy in such situations.
New online casinos in Hungary
Every year, hundreds of brand-new casinos in Hungary are launched. However, not all of them are excellent. Also, not all give the best gaming experience that Hungarian gamblers deserve.
In fact, most of the new online casinos in Hungary are launched with ill intentions. Hackers know how lucrative the gambling industry is in Hungary. Hence, they use this opportunity to scam Hungarian players.
Hackers disguise their sites from the inside out to resemble reputable casinos. This makes it challenging to identify a legit casino. As a result, every year, more Hungarian gamblers fall prey to the hands of these hackers.
To avoid having your gaming experience end in tears, it’s important to choose only new legit casinos. Hungarian new legitimate casinos incorporate every feature a good casino should have. The only drawback is that identifying these casinos is not that simple.
At Correct Casinos, we take all reasonable precautions to keep you secure. That is why we take care to only include new, reputable, and licensed websites that offer helpful support.
To save you the time, we came up with fresh online casinos in Hungary. You, therefore, won’t have to search for these casinos yourself. All you have to do is tap any of the following casino and enjoy.
There are plenty of well-liked slots in Hungary. Everything is available, from contemporary video slots with stunning visuals to vintage fruit machines.
The popularity of slots has increased recently. This is because of how easy it is to play them. Additionally, playing slots is a terrific way to pass the time while still having a chance to win big.
The following slots are the most-loved in Hungary:
Baron Bloodmore
Rolled out in 2021, Baron Bloodmore is an eye-catching slot with a captivating theme and brilliant colors. It has high volatility and an RTP of 96.15%.
With 5 reels and 25 paylines, Baron Bloodmore has a top win of 25,000x. The minimum bet amount is HUF93 and the maximum wager amount is HUF42, 928.
Thunderkick’s ingeniously themed slot machine, Baron Bloodmore has a fantastic vampire theme. The game’s reels are bordered in scarlet and gold, and it is located on the balcony of a castle.
You’ll come across the massive mystery symbol at random. It shows up on reels 2, 3, and 4. When it appears, it transforms into a single-paying symbol, increasing your winning potential.
When you land 3 scatter symbols, you’ll activate the crimson cash bonus. When this happens, all normal symbols will transform into special symbols. The goal will be to collect as many special symbols as possible.
Hot to Burn
The Hot to Burn video slot is one of Pragmatic Play’s titles launched in 2020. It is a medium-volatile slot with a 96.71% RTP.
Hot to Burn has a top win of 1,000 the stake amount. It has 5 paylines, 5 reels, and 3 rows. The minimum bet amount is HUF21 and the maximum amount is HUF107, 320.
Of note, the symbols in this game include several commonplace fruits, stars, and sevens. There isn’t even a soundtrack for the game. The sound of flames blazing is the only background noise that plays once you hit a win.
It’s worth mentioning that Hot to Burn has no bonuses. It also has no wild symbol. However, it has a scatter symbol that pays out 50x.
The scatter symbol is not bound to any payline. No matter where the combination lands on the reels, you will receive a prize.
12 Zodiacs
Habanero is a reputable software developer that owns the 12 Zodiacs video slot. This slot machine was introduced in 2016. It has a low volatility and an RTP of 96.1%.
Additionally, the game has 18 paylines and 5 reels. The minimum and maximum bet range is HUF77 to HUF38, 635.
12 Zodiacs slot’s gaming screen is quite stunning and beautiful. The game reels are borderless and include temple-inspired decorations.
At the entryway, there are statues of protecting lions. The slot’s mood is enhanced with carefully chosen sound effects that increase emotional immersion and positive sensations.
All the animals from the Chinese zodiac circle are incorporated as paying symbols. A rat, tiger, bull, and a dragon are among them. The game also features Chinese lanterns, which represent the scatter symbol.
Notably, the full moon symbol represents the wild symbol. It appears on reels 2, 3, 4, and 5. Interestingly, it can appear as the sun, doubling or tripling your winnings!
Pirate Pays Megaways
Introduced in 2021, Pirate Pays is an interesting pirate-themed title from Big Time Gaming. It is a highly volatile video slot with an RTP of 96.53%.
Pirate Pays has a whopping 117,649 ways to win. In addition, it has 6 reels and a maximum win of 104, 400x. The minimum and maximum bets for this game are HUF96 and HUF9, 590 respectively.
Notably, there are two scatters in the base game. A regular scatter appears on reels one through five and a mega scatter on reel six.
The Feature Offer is activated by three or more Scatters. A Mega Feature is activated if one or more of the scatters that trigger it are Mega Scatters.
The Compass Wild can add a Basic Wild to either the main reels or the secondary reel. Every time the Wild manifests (during an initial spin), it will point in the direction indicated by a compass. Basic Wilds are symbols that appear in the direction of the compass points.
Premiered in 2022, Space XY is a simple game from BGaming. It has an exciting gameplay with a maximum win of 10,000 your stake.
Space XY is a low-medium volatile game with an RTP of 97%. There aren’t any paylines in Space XY because of the peculiar way the game is set up. The bet range for this game is HUF5 and HUF479, 510.
Sound effects and music create a rich environment. They alternate between soft synths and the sounds of rocket engines and explosions.
The Rocket Fly is one of the main features in this game with a graph showing the rocket flight. The graph’s X position represents how long your rocket will be in the air.
Potential winnings from a single wager are represented on the Y axis. To win, you should get out of the rocket before it vanishes into deep space.
Another feature in Space XY is the multi-bet feature. This allows you to place multiple bets on a single game.
In addition to online slots, Hungarian casinos include other popular games in their libraries. Here are the most-played casino games in Hungary:
Baccarat
Baccarat is a fascinating game of sheer chance. Basically, it’s a slow-paced, easy game that’s perfect for novices because it doesn’t involve much skill or strategy. Of all the casino games, baccarat boasts some of the best odds.
Blackjack
Blackjack is a card game that is played widely, particularly in Hungary. One of the main attractions of blackjack is how simple it is to play. This game puts to the test your ability to think quickly and make decisions.
Roulette
In roulette, a small ball is placed on one of the numbered pockets on a rotating wheel. You then place bets on where the small ball will land when the wheel stops. This game is highly popular in Hungary since its introduction in the 18th century in France.
Poker
Poker is well-known as a single-pack game. To speed up play, however, two packs of various colors are now almost always utilized among the best players. While the first deal is being made, the second pack is shuffled and prepared for the subsequent deal.
Keno
The word Keno is a French word meaning “five winning numbers”. It is a lottery-like game that originated in China, where you wager by selecting numbers from 1 to 80. After each player has wagered, 20 numbers are randomly drawn with a Random Number Generator.
Bingo
Each player in the game of bingo matches the numbers that are written on cards in various configurations. The game’s caller selects a number at random and marks it with a tile. A player yells “Bingo!” when they see that the chosen numbers are lined up on their card.
Hungary sports betting sites
Without denial, Hungary is a nation that excels in several sports. In fact, football holds a unique place in every Hungarian gambler’s heart.
The legalization of online gambling in 2013 sparked a meteoric rise in business for Hungarian betting companies. Since then, a lot has changed, and there are a ton of online sports betting sites.
Hungary currently allows sports betting online, albeit with many restrictions. Sports betting bookmakers, however, must have approval from Hungary’s Gambling Authority to operate on the Hungarian market.
Apart from football, basketball is another sport that Hungarians like betting on. In addition to the Hungarian National League, gamblers also bet on international competitions. This includes the NBA and the FIBA international cup.
Another sport that attracts interest from Hungarian gamblers is handball. Hungarians pay great attention to a number of international competitions, including the IHF Super Globe and the EHF European League.
In Hungary, ice hockey is another popular sport gamblers love to wager on. This is beyond a doubt demonstrated by the intense betting activity and massive viewership such events receive.
In several nations around the world, including Hungary, eSports betting has begun to gain significant appeal. The competitions Hungarian gamblers wager on include the League of Legends, and Dota 2.
All these games are available on Hungarian betting sites. However, choosing the right sports betting site is crucial.
For instance, you want a sports betting site that is secure and licensed. This will guarantee the safety of your data, whether personal or financial.
Also, the best sports betting site should offer bonuses. These include cash-backs, and welcome bonuses. Such bonuses allow you to reap your full winnings. More importantly, you want a site that offers a dependable customer service. Playing at such a site ensures that arising queries are promptly answered.
For your convenience, we’ve come up with the following list of the best sports betting sites in Hungary:
Most popular casino payment methods in Hungary
Many options exist when it comes to banking at an online casino in Hungary. Undeniably, some payment methods are better than others. This may be in terms of transaction speeds, security, or convenience.
As a rule of thumb, you should go for a payment method with the above characteristics, and more. The following payment methods have the aforementioned characteristics, making them popular options in Hungary:
MuchBetter
The MuchBetter payment method comes as an app. It was designed specifically for online gaming. This makes it a favorable option for Hungarian gamblers and casinos.
MuchBetter is licensed by UK’s Financial Conduct Authority. Additionally, the business is authorized by the Romanian National Office for Gambling (NOG). This makes it a legit payment method.
Also, MuchBetter employs the most recent security and encryption technology. Therefore, you can relax knowing that your money is always secure.
It’s worth mentioning that MuchBetter processes deposits instantly. Moreover, MuchBetter withdrawals happen in less than 24 hours.
Notably, this payment method has a free MasterCard. You can use the MuchBetter debit card to make withdrawals at the nearest ATMs.
As a financial asset, Bitcoin may still be in its infancy. However, since its launch, the popularity of this cryptocurrency king continues to soar.
Bitcoin is a peer-to-peer, decentralized digital currency. It is becoming a more popular way of payment for online betting, especially in Hungary.
The speed of transactions when utilizing Bitcoin is just unmatched. Transactions are completed in a matter of minutes, at most three or fewer. This is regardless of the amount being transferred.
Another benefit of utilizing bitcoin is privacy. Your Bitcoin address is not linked to your name. This anonymity prevents a third party from gaining access to your information.
Ethereum
Like Bitcoin, Ethereum is a popular cryptocurrency that was founded in 2013. Most Hungarian casinos accept it as a withdrawal and deposit method.
When using Ethereum, say goodbye to unpleasant failed deposits. Blockchain technology begins to work its magic as soon as you confirm the Ethereum transfer of funds.
Of note, anyone on the Ethereum network can have access to all the data. Nobody, however, is aware of your genuine identity. As a result, it will be very challenging to link the money in your Ethereum wallet to you.
Furthermore, peer-to-peer transactions take place through the Ethereum network. This eliminates the need for a middleman, which is an advantage in terms of safety.
Since it was established in 1999, online gaming has been of utmost importance for Neteller. The reason for this is that 95% of revenue generated by Neteller comes from iGaming.
Neteller is the best option if you want a hassle-free and rapid deposit and withdrawal process. This is possible because there is no banking institution acting as a middleman in the transaction.
All users of Neteller have access to the two-step authentication option, which uses an SSL protocol for encryption. Additionally, your bank information is kept secret from the bookmaker, protecting your data.
Neteller’s VIP Program offers considerable rewards for customers who enjoy placing large wagers. These include higher caps, round-the-clock customer support, and cheaper transaction fees.
Gambling regulator in Hungary
The Gaming Supervision Authority is the regulatory organization in charge of overseeing the gambling industry in Hungary. This organization is in charge of regulating both land-based and online gaming in the nation.
Its duties include monitoring, issuing licenses, and sanctioning operators. Additionally, it punishes individuals who break the rules governing gaming.
Poker and bingo are two of the games that are regulated by the Gambling Authority. Lotteries, wagering on fantasy sports with the expectation of a monetary payout, and sports betting are also regulated.
The National Media and Info-communication Authority also has a part to play in Hungarian betting. It works to block the infringement-related information.
Hungary implemented a fully new gambling system between 2013 and 2014. International operators opposed the new system before the national courts and the CJEU.
The CJEU concluded that some crucial components of the Hungarian system are in violation of EU law. Hence, the national legislation could not be applied because a new licensing system was not yet in place. 2015 saw the introduction of changes to the Gambling Act. Any operator who wanted to provide online casino services in Hungary had to apply for a license with the local government.
The government permitted non-state-owned businesses to apply for casino licenses. This is despite the fact that it elected to maintain the monopoly on lotteries and sports wagering.
Many people thought that this would give enthusiasts of online gambling more opportunities. However, there were still only a few internet casinos available. This was because only brick-and-mortar casinos were eligible to seek for licenses to operate online casinos.
Furthermore, gambling websites without licenses to operate in Hungary may be blocked by the regional regulator. Such restrictions have left Hungarian gamblers with limited options for online casinos.
Private businesses may submit applications for licenses for both land-based casinos and online casinos. Poker and online poker are each covered by one of the two license types. There are currently 11 land-based casinos operating on Hungary’s territory thanks to legal permission.
Casino operating permits in Hungary have a five-year validity period. The Hungarian Gaming Authority did, however, extend concessions to 5 land-based casinos in 2021. These will be in effect for 35 years, with casinos being able to run until 2056.
To be eligible for a gaming license, businesses must meet the statutory capital minimum. Operators of casinos are required to have a statutory capital of at least HUF 100 million and a maximum of HUF 1 billion.
The class of the running casino determines the required statutory capital. For instance, a minimum amount of HUF 25 million is needed to operate a card club.
It typically takes up to 75 days for the relevant licensing authority to issue a casino operating license. Notably, there is no cap on the total number of licenses that may be granted to qualified applicants.
Hungary gambling restrictions
Unlicensed betting activities carried out within Hungary’s territory are prohibited. Additionally, betting sites that have been found to violate the law are blacklisted.
The Gambling Authority has put in place an ISP blocking scheme. It recognizes these betting websites and stops them from accepting visitors from Hungary.
The nation made the decision to impose greater regulation on unlicensed sports betting websites. It stated that it planned to implement a payment-blocking system.
All sports betting sites without the nation’s Gambling Supervisory Authority’s seal of approval would be impacted by the system. Additionally, this covers card payments, bank transfers, and agreements for payments with these operators.
The established blacklist will be used to limit bank transfers. Moreover, both the country code and the MCC code will be used to delay card payments. Payment blocking is a concept, albeit, that has not yet been implemented.
The Act XXXIV on Gaming Operations, which was passed in 1991, governs the gambling industry in Hungary. Hungarian regulatory bodies now have guidelines thanks to the legislation. Anyone younger than 18 years may not, according to the legislation, take part in Hungarian-authorized gambling activities.
Additionally, there may not be any advertising for illegal gambling. The gaming authority may punish the advertiser if gambling advertisements are published in contravention of these rules. Furthermore, collective punishment will be meted out to the advertiser, advertiser publisher, and advertiser participant.
However, it should be mentioned that the gambling regulator temporarily stopped blocking unregistered gaming websites. This is an exception for well-known bogus websites for “technical reasons”. The majority of international gaming and betting websites are thus currently accessible from Hungary.
2023 Gambling Act Amendments in Hungary
Hungary filed legislation in February 2022 to end the governmental monopoly on sports betting in the nation. The Supervisory Authority for Regulatory Affairs (SZTFH) would be responsible for implementing a competitive licensing process. This would make the gambling regulation in Hungary more in line with the policies of many of its neighbouring states.
Launched on January 1, 2023, the new system introduced certain restrictions for applicants wishing to operate in Hungary. To be eligible for authorisation, an operator must have at least 5 years of experience in offering legal gambling within the EEA. Additionally, the legislation states unequivocally that it cannot grant a license to a company that has broadcasted unlicensed games within 5 years of license application.
Hungary proposed new laws in January 2023 that updated the nation’s Gambling Act. It carried out several additional technical adjustments to support the new gaming industry. Previously, a player could only have one balance with a casino operator. However, a customer may have more than one balance associated with each game under the new regulations.
Along with other modifications, the law permitted companies to allow players to cash out early in games set up that way. The legislation states that the same guidelines and limitations for paying out winnings must also apply to cashouts.
As of March 2023, the Supervisory Authority for Regulatory Affairs had not approved any offshore operator. It only issued a license to Szerencsejáték Zrt, the previous state-owned monopoly, operating through Tippmixpro.hu.
With a tethered license, three land-based casinos in Hungary are also authorised to provide online casino services. Two of them are Grand Casino Budapest and Grand Casino Debrecen.
Gambling taxes in Hungary
Gamblers in Hungary are not obligated to pay taxes on any gains they have amassed from gambling. Only lottery players are exempt from this rule. The tax on the winnings might be between 16% and 24%.
While Hungarian gamblers are exempted from paying taxes, gambling operators must pay taxes. Different charges apply depending on the gaming services offered.
The gaming revenue earned in drawing games is subject to a monthly 30% tax. Additionally, lottery companies must pay a tax equal to 24% of their monthly total prize pool.
Bingo is a game where casinos must pay a monthly tax equal to 7% of the prize money. In addition, 20% of the gambling revenue will be taxed when placing a wager on sports through a bookmaker.
Taxes are not paid on wagers on horse races. However, online gambling is taxed with bookmakers paying 15% of their gross gaming income.
Finally, the taxes that casino owners must pay are based on the total annual net gambling revenue. Operators must pay a 30% tax on their net gambling revenue if it does not exceed HUF 10 billion.
If, say, an operator generates an annual revenue of over HUF 10 billion. The tax amount will be HUF 3 billion and 10% of revenue above the predetermined amount.
History of gambling in Hungary
Hungary, a former Soviet nation, has had a long history of illegal gambling. This led to the creation of a sizable underground gaming market. The market was dominated by various criminal organizations.
Hungary transitioned to democracy at the end of the 1980s as communism was overthrown. Later, in 2004, it acceded to the EU.
After Hungary joined the EU, things began to change quite quickly. Operators from abroad started making moves to enter the untouched market.
Before that point, offshore operators’ attempts to accept players from the nation were frequently rebuffed. Even legal action was taken by the nation against most betting sites.
Hungary’s underground gambling market remained the only venue to gamble, even after communism was overthrown. This was until 1991’s Gambling Act.
During this time, all gambling became legal. However, the law stipulated that any operator had to be wholly owned by the state.
Pari-mutuel wagering constituted the majority of sports betting in Hungary. The obvious choice to oversee the sports betting market was the state-run lottery operator, Szerencsejáték Zrt.
When the Hungarian government changed the gambling legislation in 2013, this monopoly ended. This happened when the EU put pressure on them. Despite tight laws, Hungarian gamblers are able to access online gambling sites.
Land-based gambling in Hungary
Hungary’s gambling sector was given a monopoly by Queen Maria Teresa in 1750. The law focused on lotteries. During this time, card games and horse racing also gained popularity.
In 1827, Countess Istvan founded the National Casino, the country’s first physical casino. The oldest casino still operating in Hungary is Casino Sopron. It was founded in 1989 by Casinos Austria and Szerencjatek Zrt.
In 1992, a private casino owner launched Las Vegas Casino in the Sofitel Budapest hotel. Eight years later, in Budapest, Szerencsejáték opened the Casino Tropicana. On January 1, 2007, the Central Bureau of the Tax and Financial Control Administration (CBTFCA) established a regulatory body. It was called the Gambling Supervision Department (GSD).
The work of the Gambling Supervision Department was to regulate the gambling industry in Hungary. In 2011, it changed its name to the National Tax and Customs Administration (NAV).
Since 2013, Hungary has loosened various gaming regulations. As a result, there are now much more casinos in operation around the country.
Two of the country’s authorized physical casinos are located in Budapest, and one is situated in Sopron. They’re open all day and have blackjack, poker, American roulette, and slot machines, among others.
Everyone who is older than 18 years old is permitted to gamble. There must be a quick registration process before proceeding, though.
Hungarians visiting land-based casinos are required to possess a passport or a valid photo ID. There is no set attire requirement. As long as it adheres to generally accepted community standards, players are welcome to wear casual attire.
Notably, Hungary’s largest cities have poker rooms. Act XXXIV, 1991, governs how card rooms must operate. There can be five to ten players in a card room.
Moreover, poker rooms are prohibited from operating within 200 meters of healthcare facilities. They’re also not allowed near youth clubs and educational institutions.
Hungary gambling addiction help
Anyone from any part of Hungary can develop gambling issues. Your gambling may transition from an enjoyable, risk-free distraction to an obsessive fixation with negative effects.
A gambling issue can affect your relationships and employment, whether you gamble online or offline (land-based casinos). This will result in a financial catastrophe.
You might even take actions you never imagined you could. For instance, you may rack up a lot of debt or even steal money to gamble with.
Statistics show a continuous increase in gambling addiction in Hungary. More than 2.5 million Hungarian players are affected. There are 800,000 mildly addicted gamblers and 300,000 chronic gaming addicts.
The chance to abstain from gambling is being seized upon by an increasing number of Hungarians. This comes after the government’s self-exclusion scheme was put into place.
In the first half of 2019, almost 150 people submitted requests to the Gaming Supervisory Authority (GSA). They asked to be prohibited from gaming for five years.
In the self-exclusion program, you can bar yourself from participating in one or more sorts of gambling. You can also apply a one-, three-, or five-year self-exclusion from a certain gambling provider.
A self-exclusion application of this kind may be submitted for several gambling service categories. Online casinos, land-based casinos, card games, and remote gambling services are a few examples. You can also simultaneously remove yourself from each category.
Myths Vs facts about problem gambling
Apart from self-exclusion, there are numerous things you can do to solve this problem. This will allow you to mend your financial situation and personal connections. Ultimately, you will reclaim control of your life.
Before that, it’s important to separate the truth concerning gambling problems from the myths. The reason for this is that many Hungarians rely on myths, making gambling addiction worse.
Myths
Facts
To be a problem gambler, you must wager every day.
A problem gambler may engage in regular or irregular gambling.
Problem gambling is not a problem as long as you can afford it.
Problem gambling can lead to issues beyond money. It can also result in unemployment and mental health issues.
Being a gambling addict is a sign of being weak, careless, or stupid.
Every Hungarian gamer, regardless of intelligence level or upbringing, can develop gambling problems.
Problem gamblers’ partners frequently encourage their dear ones to gamble.
Problem gamblers in Hungary frequently attempt to justify their actions to their partners.
You should assist a problem gambler in paying off any debts that they accrue.
Quick fixes sometimes seem to be the best course of action. Bail-outing the gambler out of debt, however, could actually make things worse. It will allow their gambling issues to persist.
Getting rid of the triggers that make you want to gamble is one strategy to stop problem gambling. You should then substitute the triggers with healthy options. The following elements must be present for gambling to happen:
A decision – You must decide to bet in order for it to happen. Stop what you’re doing and make a call to someone to divert your attention if you feel the need. Alternatively, remind yourself to quit considering gambling and to start doing something else right away.
A game – There is no chance to gamble if there is no game or activity to wager on. Avoid putting yourself in seductive situations by uninstalling gaming apps on your phone. Also, inform the casino of your problem gambling and request that they prevent you from entering.
Time – You can’t gamble at a Hungarian online casino if you don’t have the time. Plan delightful leisure activities for yourself that don’t include gambling. Find other methods to pass the time during the day, say, by interacting with friends or family.
Money – Gambling is impossible without cash. Eliminate your credit cards, or give someone else control of your finances. You can also close your online betting accounts and have only a small quantity of cash with you.
When dealing with gambling problem, don’t do it alone. Engage your friends or family members.
Still not decided where to play?
Here’s a quick comparison table of the 3 best Hungarian online casinos.
The Hungarian National Lottery Company was historically the exclusive betting game operator in Hungary before deregulation.
There are currently more than 250 online casinos operating in the Hungarian market.
There was a crackdown in 2006. It compelled Hungarian banks to obstruct financial transactions made with credit cards provided by several banks. They include K&H, Citibank,
Takare, and MKB banks.
Players from Hungary can’t fund their betting accounts with credit cards from K&H and other regional banks.
FAQs
In Hungary, there are no taxes owed by players. Instead, the government makes the operators themselves responsible for paying taxes. Lottery winners are the lone exception to this rule. The fortunate gamblers will have anywhere from 16% to 24% of their winnings taken directly out of their account.
It is entirely safe to gamble at the best online casinos in Hungary. We take care to only review reputable casinos that have a history of success. Moreover, we verify whether they are properly licensed by known regulatory authorities.
Yes, the best Hungarian casinos accept the Hungarian Forint. This allows you to place wagers without the need for currency conversion. Consequently, it saves you time and currency conversion fees.
The withdrawal time will depend on the banking method you choose. For instance, Neteller and MuchBetter process withdrawals within 24 hours. Cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, process withdrawals in minutes.
Yes, you can choose between playing for fun or for real money at the best Hungarian casinos. Select the former and play the game for however long you desire. The best part is that playing the demo does not require you to sign up.
The Hungarian government, via the Gaming Supervisory Authority, came up with an exclusion program. It is a free service that solely caters to Hungarian gamblers with addiction. In addition to this, you should practice self-care as outlined in this article.
Final verdict
Undeniably, Hungary has one of the tightest gambling laws. This, however, has not stopped Hungarian gamblers from playing at the best online casinos.
Many casinos have come up since the legalization of online gambling in Hungary. However, not all casinos tailor their services to the Hungarian gamer. That is why it’s important to choose the right Hungarian casino.
Luckily, we, at Correct Casinos, came up with a list of the best Hungarian casinos. These casinos offer the finest slots, among other games. They also support numerous payment options that allow you to cash out within 24 hours.
The best part is that after cashing out, you go home with the full amount. This is because the Hungarian government does not tax players’ winnings. Instead, they tax the operators.
When getting entertained and winning big, you should gamble responsibly. It’s worth mentioning that no one is immune to problem gambling. In addition, you don’t have to gamble every day to become a problem gambler.
It’s, therefore, important that you control your gambling activity else you become an addict. Being a gambling addict impacts you socially, economically, and mentally. If you find it hard to deal with problem gambling, engage your family members or seek professional support.
Stan is the one that founded CorrectCasinos.com back in 2018. He is really passionate about fair-play in online casinos, transparency and responsible gaming.
