What Is GamStop? Complete UK Guide 2026

What Is GamStop?

GamStop is the United Kingdom's free national self-exclusion scheme for online gambling. Managed by the National Online Self-Exclusion Scheme Limited, it allows any British resident aged 18 or over to voluntarily block themselves from all online gambling websites licensed by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). The scheme was launched in April 2018 and has since become a mandatory requirement for all UKGC-licensed operators.

When you register with GamStop, you choose a self-exclusion period of 6 months, 1 year, or 5 years. During this time, every UKGC-licensed gambling operator is legally obligated to prevent you from opening new accounts, placing bets, or depositing money. The scheme currently covers more than 250 operators, including major names like Bet365, William Hill, Paddy Power, Sky Bet, Coral, Ladbrokes, and BetVictor.

The purpose of GamStop is to provide a straightforward, one-stop mechanism for individuals who feel their gambling has become problematic or who simply wish to take a break. Before GamStop existed, self-exclusion had to be arranged separately with each individual operator, which was both time-consuming and inconsistent in its application.

How GamStop Works — Step by Step

The GamStop registration process is intentionally straightforward. The entire procedure can be completed in under ten minutes through the official GamStop.co.uk website. Here is exactly what happens when you sign up:

Step 1: Visit the Official GamStop Website

Navigate to www.gamstop.co.uk and click the registration button. It is important to use only the official website. GamStop does not operate through any third-party websites or mobile applications.

Step 2: Enter Your Personal Details

You will be asked to provide the following information:

• Full name (as it appears on your gambling accounts)
• Date of birth
• Email address (the one you use for gambling accounts)
• Home postcode
• Any previous names or addresses used on gambling accounts

GamStop uses these details to match your identity across all UKGC-licensed operator databases. Providing accurate information is essential for the scheme to work effectively. If you have used different names, email addresses, or postcodes on various gambling accounts, you should include all of them during registration.

Step 3: Choose Your Exclusion Period

You must select one of three exclusion durations:

• 6 months — the minimum period
• 1 year
• 5 years — the maximum period

This is a critical decision because once you confirm, you cannot shorten your chosen period. If you select 5 years, you are locked in for the full 5 years with no possibility of early cancellation.

Step 4: Confirm Your Registration

After reviewing your details and chosen exclusion period, you confirm your registration. GamStop sends a confirmation email to your registered email address. From this point, UKGC-licensed operators have up to 24 hours to implement your exclusion, though most do so within minutes.

Step 5: Operators Block Your Accounts

Once your registration is processed, all UKGC-licensed operators are legally required to close your active accounts, prevent you from opening new accounts, cease all marketing communications to you, and block any attempts to deposit or place bets. Any funds remaining in your accounts at the time of registration should be returned to you.

Who Is Eligible for GamStop?

GamStop is available to anyone who meets the following criteria:

• Residency: You must be a resident of Great Britain (England, Scotland, or Wales). GamStop does not currently extend to Northern Ireland, which has a separate regulatory framework.
• Age: You must be 18 years of age or older.
• Gambling activity: You must have, or intend to have, an account with at least one UKGC-licensed online gambling operator.

There are no restrictions based on the severity of your gambling habits. You do not need to demonstrate a gambling problem to register. Many people use GamStop simply as a precautionary measure or a temporary break from online gambling.

Duration Options: 6 Months, 1 Year, or 5 Years

Choosing the right exclusion period is one of the most important decisions you will make during the GamStop registration process. Each option has different implications:

6-Month Exclusion

The minimum period is designed for individuals who want a shorter cooling-off period. This is often chosen by recreational gamblers who recognise they need a break but do not consider themselves to have a severe gambling problem. After 6 months, you can request removal and return to gambling if you choose.

1-Year Exclusion

The mid-range option provides a longer break and is the most commonly selected period according to GamStop's published statistics. It allows enough time for habits to change and for individuals to develop healthier relationships with gambling, or to find alternative forms of entertainment.

5-Year Exclusion

The maximum period is recommended for individuals who recognise they have a serious gambling problem. Five years provides substantial time for recovery and lifestyle changes. This option is frequently recommended by gambling support organisations such as GamCare and the National Gambling Helpline.

What GamStop Does and Doesn't Cover

Understanding the scope of GamStop's coverage is essential. Many people register with misconceptions about what the scheme actually blocks.

What GamStop DOES Cover

• All online casinos licensed by the UKGC
• All online betting sites licensed by the UKGC
• Online bingo sites licensed by the UKGC
• Online poker rooms licensed by the UKGC
• Gambling apps from UKGC-licensed operators
• Spread betting platforms regulated by the UKGC

In total, GamStop covers over 250 UKGC-licensed operators, which between them operate hundreds of individual gambling websites and brands.

What GamStop Does NOT Cover

• Offshore casinos: Casinos licensed by international regulators such as the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA), Curaçao eGaming, or the Gibraltar Regulatory Authority are not part of the GamStop network. These are commonly referred to as non GamStop casinos.
• The National Lottery: Lotto, EuroMillions, Thunderball, and National Lottery scratchcards are not covered by GamStop.
• Land-based casinos: Physical casino premises, such as Grosvenor Casinos or The Hippodrome, are not part of the GamStop scheme. Land-based self-exclusion is handled separately through the SENSE scheme.
• Betting shops: High-street bookmakers like Ladbrokes, Coral, and William Hill physical shops are not covered.
• Bingo halls: Physical bingo venues are excluded from the scheme.
• Amusement arcades: Arcade machines and gaming terminals are not covered.
• Northern Ireland operators: As GamStop only covers Great Britain, Northern Ireland-specific operators fall outside its remit.

History of GamStop and the UKGC Mandate

GamStop's origins trace back to growing concerns about the effectiveness of self-exclusion in the UK online gambling market. Before GamStop, the self-exclusion landscape was fragmented and largely ineffective.

Pre-2018: The Fragmented Era

Prior to GamStop, players who wanted to self-exclude from online gambling had to contact each operator individually. This process was inconsistent, time-consuming, and riddled with loopholes. A player might self-exclude from one casino only to receive marketing emails from a sister site owned by the same company. There was no central database, no standardised process, and no regulatory oversight of how operators handled self-exclusion requests.

2018: GamStop Launches

GamStop launched on 19 April 2018 as a voluntary scheme, meaning UKGC-licensed operators could choose whether or not to participate. Initially, adoption was slow, and several major operators were criticised for delaying their integration.

March 2020: The UKGC Mandate

Recognising the limitations of a voluntary system, the UK Gambling Commission made GamStop participation mandatory for all UKGC-licensed operators from 31 March 2020. This was a watershed moment. Any operator that failed to integrate with GamStop risked losing its UKGC licence. The mandate coincided with the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, during which online gambling activity surged dramatically across the UK.

2020-2024: Rapid Growth

GamStop registrations grew significantly in the years following the mandate. The COVID-19 pandemic was a major driver, with lockdowns leading to increased online gambling and a corresponding rise in self-exclusion requests. By 2023, GamStop reported that over 350,000 individuals had registered with the scheme since its inception.

2025-2026: The Current Landscape

As of 2026, GamStop remains the sole authorised online self-exclusion scheme in Great Britain. The UKGC has continued to tighten its requirements, mandating faster implementation times and stricter penalties for operators that fail to honour GamStop exclusions. The scheme is widely regarded as one of the most comprehensive national self-exclusion systems in the world.

What Happens When You Register with GamStop

Registering with GamStop triggers a series of consequences that affect your relationship with all UKGC-licensed gambling operators. Here is what you should expect:

Immediate Effects (Within 24 Hours)

• All your existing accounts at UKGC-licensed operators will be suspended or closed
• You will be unable to open new accounts at any UKGC-licensed operator
• Any pending bets or wagers may be voided (operator-specific policies apply)
• You will be removed from all marketing and promotional mailing lists

Funds in Your Accounts

Any remaining balance in your gambling accounts should be returned to you. Most operators will automatically process a withdrawal to your last used payment method. If this fails, the operator should contact you to arrange an alternative withdrawal method. If you experience difficulties recovering your funds, contact the operator's customer support directly.

Ongoing Effects During Your Exclusion

• Operators will continue to block any attempts to register or log in
• You should not receive any gambling-related marketing communications
• Your details are stored in the GamStop database for the duration of your exclusion
• You cannot change your chosen exclusion period to a shorter one
• You can, however, extend your exclusion period if you wish

What Happens After Your Exclusion Expires

A common misconception is that GamStop exclusions automatically expire, and your accounts reopen on their own. This is not the case. Here is what actually happens:

Your Exclusion Does NOT Automatically End

When your chosen exclusion period expires, your GamStop registration remains in effect indefinitely. You will not be automatically re-enrolled on gambling sites. Your accounts will remain closed and your blocks will stay in place until you actively take steps to request removal.

Requesting Removal

To end your GamStop self-exclusion after the period has expired, you must contact GamStop directly. You can do this by telephoning their helpline on 0800 138 6518 or by submitting a request through their website. You will be asked to confirm your identity and your intention to remove your self-exclusion.

The 24-Hour Cooling-Off Period

After you request removal, there is a mandatory 24-hour cooling-off period before your exclusion is actually lifted. This is designed to prevent impulsive decisions. During these 24 hours, you can change your mind and keep your GamStop exclusion in place at no cost or consequence.

After Removal

Once your exclusion is lifted, you can reopen your gambling accounts or create new ones at UKGC-licensed operators. However, individual operators are not obligated to reactivate your account — some may refuse to take you back as a customer, which is within their rights. You may also find that previously available promotions or VIP statuses have been reset.

For a complete walkthrough of the cancellation process, see our detailed guide: How to Cancel GamStop Self-Exclusion.

Alternatives While Registered with GamStop

If you are currently registered with GamStop and are looking for alternatives, it is important to understand your options and the trade-offs involved.

Non GamStop Casinos

The most common alternative is playing at non GamStop casinos — offshore platforms that hold licences from international regulators such as the Malta Gaming Authority, Curaçao eGaming, or the Gibraltar Regulatory Authority. These casinos are not part of the GamStop network and will not check your GamStop status during registration.

While playing at these sites is not illegal for UK residents, they come with different levels of consumer protection. We strongly recommend only using casinos that hold a valid international licence and have been independently reviewed. Our homepage lists the top-rated non GamStop casinos for UK players, all verified for licensing, payout reliability, and fair play.

The National Lottery

As the National Lottery is not covered by GamStop, you can continue to play Lotto, EuroMillions, Thunderball, Set For Life, and National Lottery scratchcards both in shops and online through the National Lottery website.

Land-Based Gambling

GamStop does not extend to physical gambling venues. This means you can still visit land-based casinos, betting shops, bingo halls, and amusement arcades. However, if you have self-excluded from online gambling due to a problem, visiting physical venues may not be advisable.

Social Casino Apps

Free-to-play social casino apps and games that do not involve real-money wagering are not covered by GamStop. These include games on platforms like Facebook, free slots apps, and poker apps that use virtual chips rather than real money.

Non GamStop Casinos Explained

Non GamStop casinos are online gambling platforms that operate under international licences rather than a UKGC licence. Because they are not regulated by the UK Gambling Commission, they are not required to participate in the GamStop self-exclusion scheme.

These casinos are legal for UK residents to use. No UK law prohibits individuals from gambling at offshore sites. However, they fall outside the regulatory protections provided by the UKGC, which means dispute resolution, player fund protection, and responsible gambling tools may differ from what you are accustomed to at UK-licensed sites.

Key Differences from UKGC-Licensed Sites

• Bonuses: Non GamStop casinos typically offer significantly larger welcome bonuses, with match percentages of 200-400% being common. UKGC-licensed sites are subject to stricter bonus caps since January 2026.
• Payment methods: Credit card deposits are accepted at many non GamStop casinos, along with a wide range of cryptocurrencies. UKGC sites banned credit card gambling in April 2020.
• Betting limits: Non GamStop casinos generally impose fewer restrictions on maximum stakes and deposit limits.
• Game selection: A broader range of games is often available, including titles from providers that have not sought UKGC certification.
• Licensing: Casinos may hold licences from the MGA, Curaçao, Gibraltar, or other jurisdictions. The level of player protection varies by licence. Learn more in our licensing guide.

Our Top-Rated Non GamStop Casinos

If you are looking for a trusted non GamStop casino, we have tested and ranked the best options for UK players. Each site on our list has been verified for licensing, tested for payout speed, and assessed for game variety and fairness.

#	Casino	Welcome Bonus	Rating
1	Lucki Casino	Up to £5,000 + 300 Free Spins	9.8/10	Visit Site
2	Kaasino	200% up to £3,000 + 200 FS	9.6/10	Visit Site
3	Kingdom Casino	300% up to £4,500 + 250 FS	9.5/10	Visit Site

18+ | T&Cs apply | New customers only | BeGambleAware.org

For the full top 15 list with detailed reviews, visit our best non GamStop casinos page.

Responsible Gambling Resources

Whether you use GamStop or choose to play at non GamStop casinos, responsible gambling should always be your priority. Here are the key resources available to UK residents:

National Gambling Helpline

Operated by GamCare, the National Gambling Helpline provides free, confidential advice and support for anyone affected by gambling. Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on 0808 8020 133.

BeGambleAware

BeGambleAware.org provides information, advice, and support to anyone affected by problem gambling. The website includes self-assessment tools, information about treatment options, and links to local support services across Great Britain.

GamCare

GamCare offers free counselling, support groups, and an online forum for people affected by gambling. They also operate the National Gambling Helpline and provide training for professionals who work with problem gamblers.

Gambling Therapy

Gambling Therapy provides free online support for anyone affected by problem gambling, including live chat, email support, and a peer support forum. The service is available globally and is particularly useful for UK players gambling at offshore sites.

Self-Management Tips

If you choose to gamble at non GamStop casinos, we strongly recommend implementing the following self-management strategies:

• Set a strict weekly gambling budget and never exceed it
• Use a separate e-wallet or bank account for gambling funds
• Never chase losses — accept them as the cost of entertainment
• Set time limits for each gambling session
• Never gamble when under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Take regular breaks during gambling sessions
• Keep a log of your gambling activity, including wins and losses

For a comprehensive guide to protecting yourself at offshore casinos, see our how to stay safe guide.

Frequently Asked Questions About GamStop