Can I use a credit card at UK online casinos?
No. UK-licensed casinos have been banned from accepting credit card payments since 14 April 2020, and that includes e-wallets topped up with a credit card.
By Ryan Jessop. Updated .
Key takeaways
- Credit card gambling banned since 14 April 2020.
- Applies to e-wallets funded by credit cards too.
- Debit cards are the most common alternative.
- Check offer terms: some exclude e-wallets.
Why it was banned
The Gambling Commission banned credit card gambling to stop people gambling with money they don’t have. Its research at the time found a significant share of credit card gamblers were experiencing problem gambling.
What you can use
- Debit cards (Visa and Mastercard debit).
- Bank transfer and open banking payments.
- E-wallets such as PayPal, funded by debit card or bank, though these may not qualify for welcome offers; see PayPal and free spins.
Sites that take credit cards
A site accepting credit cards from UK players is not licensed here. The Commission’s 2026 study found credit card payments among illegal-site users.
Slot figures are developers' published defaults, each confirmed against two sources; your casino may run a lower RTP. Offer terms dated 9 October 2026. How we check. 18+. Free help: 0808 8020 133 or safer gambling.
Frequently asked questions
When were credit cards banned for gambling?
14 April 2020.
Can I use PayPal funded by a credit card?
No. The ban covers e-wallets funded by credit cards.
Can I use Apple Pay?
Where it is linked to a debit card and the casino supports it.