The Best MGA Casinos in 2024 – Malta Gaming Authority Licensed Online Casinos

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August 26, 2024 06:17 EDT

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MGA casinos are gambling sites that have received their online gambling license from the Malta Gambling Authority. Malta is a European country with a thriving online gambling ecosystem and the MGA is the gaming regulator that licenses online casinos. We’ve analyzed and reviewed dozens of MGA casinos to recommend the best of the best. In this guide, you will learn more about the best MGA casinos and how they operate.

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5 of the Top MGA Casinos Reviewed for 2024

Here are 5 reviews that we wrote about the best Malta licensed casinos. We cover all the little details — banking methods, gaming options, and the overall user experience.

As mentioned above, it worth noting that many of our recommended MGA casinos do not have an active MGA license. This does not diminish their credibility. It just means they have obtained their current licenses from another country – however, they are still trustworthy online casinos with fair gaming standards.

1. Dealbet – The Best Overall MGA Casino That Has A Native Digital Currency

Our Rating: 9.9/10

The Dealbet casino site was first established in 2024, however it has quickly become one of the strongest online casino brands available today.

Inside the casino you will find over 8,000 gaming titles from top-tier software developers. There are table games, live dealer games, tons of online slots, and specialty games.

Furthermore, this UK casino brand is licensed and secure. On top of that, they offer a few different bonuses and promotions to both new and existing customers. Their bonus offering is led by their welcome offer, which is a deposit match bonus of 800% up to $2,800.

Dealbet Welcome Bonus

2. Casino Charles – Malta Gambling Site With Over 5,000 Slot Games

Our Rating: 9.8/10

Another top online casino site with that active gaming license is the Charles Casino. Their license is based out of Curacao, however, they are still regarded as one of the best online casino brands available today.

As a player, you have access to over 5,000 casino games ranging from online slots, table games, and more. The best part about their casino is their slot game variety.

Additionally, Casino Charles offers generous bonuses, including a competitive welcome offer. This offer is a 250% deposit match bonus up to $1,500.

Casino Charles Welcome Bonus

3. SlotsNBets – Top-Rated MGA Casino For Free Spins And Weekly Reload Bonuses

Our Rating: 9.7/10

Next on our featured list is SlotsNBets. SlotsNBets was first established in 2020 and they have quickly become a powerhouse in the online gaming space. SlotsNBets is an online casino for UK players but they do accept players from other countries as well.

The casino at SlotsNBets is a very user-friendly and features classic games such as baccarat, blackjack, craps, and a wide range of online slots. It is very accessible via mobile as well, which makes it great for on-the-go gambling.

New players at SlotsNBets can claim a welcome offer – which is a 200% match bonus up to $1,000. The one downside is the rollover is 50x.

SlotsNBets Welcome Bonus

4. Instant Casino – Over 3,000 Unique Casino Games At This Malta Gaming Casino

Our Rating: 9.6/10

Instant Casino is another UK casino brand that is also available to players from around the world. The casino first rose to fame in 2024 and has positioned itself as one of the top brands.

The casino is not licensed by the Malta Gaming Authority but they do hold a license from a reputable source – Curacao. Inside the casino you will find 3,000+ casino gaming options, which is more than enough to choose from.

There is not traditional deposit match welcome bonus at Instant Casino, which is disappointing but you can claim a 10% weekly cashback bonus, which is quite unique.

Instant Casino Welcome Bonus

5. FreshBet – Features Cryptocurrency And Fiat-Based Payment Methods

Our Rating: 9.6/10

The last casino we wanted to highlight is FreshBet. FreshBet is another UK casino brand that caters to players from all around the world. It first started in 2020 and holds an active gaming license from Curacao (not Malta).

The FreshBet casino offers a ton of gaming options from lottery games, table games, slots, bingo games, live casino games, and more. There are plenty of options for new gamblers and seasoned gamblers.

There are bonuses for both new and existing customers too. The main bonus is their deposit match welcome bonus – which is a 100% bonus up to $1,500. This is in line with other top-rated online casinos we’ve recommended in our guide here.

FreshBet Welcome Bonus

What Are MGA Casinos?

MGA casinos are gambling sites that have a license with the Malta Gambling Authority. The MGA is a regulatory body responsible for establishing a safe environment for online gamblers. All your favorite games — slots, blackjack, baccarat, etc. — are playable at these casinos.

Malta was actually one of the first countries to legalize online gambling. Back in 2001, Malta approved legislation allowing online casino operators to do business. To this day, the MGA is regarded as one of the most legitimate gambling authorities. Therefore, any MGA licensed casino most certainly can be trusted.

How are MGA Casinos Licensed?

To be a MGA licensed casino, casinos must undergo a thorough application process to receive a gambling license. The MGA requires everyone to submit documentation regarding ownership and financial stability. Then, the MGA will do background checks on all the key stakeholders.

Information regarding the software and technology that powers the casino is also necessary. Additionally, the operator has to submit their policies and procedures. There needs to be clear information on how the casino handles anti-money laundering, responsible gambling, and more.

Here are all the steps that take place during the entire process:

• Applicant review
• Analysis of business plan
• Review of operational standards
• System review
• Compliance review
• Final approval of an MGA licensed casino

Alternative Casino Licenses Other Than a Malta Gaming Authority License

It is worth noting that many MGA casinos and online casinos we highlight and recommend oftentimes end up obtaining their gaming license from other governing bodies and entities. Below are the most popular casino licenses that are alternatives to licenses from the Malta Gaming Authority.

Curacao Gambling License

Curacao is an island in the Caribbean that is known for being a hub for all things iGaming. Many top-rated UK casinos and international online casinos obtain their gaming license from this country. You can trust that these casinos are legit and safe as they are overseen by the Curacao eGaming department.

Costa Rica Gambling License

Another country near the Caribbean that is a mainstay in the iGaming world is Costa Rica. The country doesn’t have a department set up but rather requires companies to register and go through a paperwork process to be headquartered in the country. This is still trust vetting process and any UK casino or online casino with a Costa Rican gaming license can indeed be trusted.

UK Gambling License

One of the more sought gaming licenses in the world is a license from the UK Government. The country’s Gambling Commission oversees this process and ensures that any casino that wishes to be headquartered in the United Kingdom must be a fair, trustworthy company and an active UK casino license holder.

Panama Gambling License

It is also worth mentioning that the country of Panama has a digital registration process similar to Costa Rica. Here, online casinos can legally register with the country to operate as a trusted offshore casino site.

Do MGA Casinos Have the Same License as UK Casinos?

While it is true that the territory of Malta once belonged to the UK government, it is not true that the licensing for online casinos are the same in each country. In 1964, Malta was granted independence by the UK government and since then their regulatory processes have also become independent.

This means that UK casinos are not MGA casinos, and MGA online casinos are not UK online casinos. They are separate – thus, the UK Gambling Commission has nothing to do with licenses for MGA casinos.

Nevertheless, there are similarities between UK casino sites and Malta gaming sites. The most obvious being that each casino site is put through a rigorous application process to be granted a license. Like UK casinos, Malta casinos must prove they offer fair gaming standards, secure banking, and adhere to best practices. All-in-all, a Malta casino license is different from a UK casino license but you can still trust both.

How are UK Online Casinos Licensed?

The process of obtaining a UK online casino license is fairly straight-forward and can be summarized in three simple steps. First, the UK casino must submit a formal application to the United Kingdom Gambling Commission (UKGC). Here, each UK casino must provide a complete business overview to the UKGC.

Next, the UKGC will assess the application from each prospective UK online casino and they will conduct thorough business background checks. If the UK casino passes these first two steps they are granted a license to operate as an online casino in the UK. They must continue to adhere to all requirements and you as a player will enjoy additional protections from the UKGC if they sign up for a licensed UK online casino.

Are MGA Casinos The Same as Curacao Casinos?

There’s actually a huge difference between MGA and Curacao casinos. The licenses and regulatory requirements vary from each other significantly. They both follow their own unique process, which we want to explain.

Malta Licensed Casinos

Malta is known for being very thorough and exhaustive during the application process. They look for any red flags or consistencies in the documentation they receive. Furthermore, Malta is very strict when it comes to data protection and fairness.

Curacao Licensed Casinos

Curacao isn’t as restrictive as Malta when it comes to issuing licenses. For example, Curacao doesn’t require any information on registered capital that supports the casino. Also, the low taxation rate (2% on corporate profits) is very advantageous for remote gaming operators.

How to Verify a Casino Has A Valid Malta Gaming Authority License

Most online casinos will allow you to read the Terms & Conditions before you join. This is where you’ll find information on licensing from a remote gaming authority. You’ll also find the name of the company that owns the casino as well as the license number.

Here are instructions on how to verify the license via the MGA’s website:

• Visit the Malta Gambling Authority website
• Go to the Licensee Hub
• Click the “Licensee Register” button
• Look up the URL or name of the operator

Player Protection in Malta Gaming Authority Casinos

The MGA is known for its stringent regulations and commitment to ensuring a safe and fair gaming environment for players. Here are some of the measures that it takes to protect players:

1. Licensing and Regulation

The MGA requires all operators to obtain a license before offering their services. This involves rigorous checks to ensure the operator’s financial stability, integrity, and ability to provide a fair gaming experience. Licensed operators must comply with strict regulations that cover all aspects of their operations.

2. Fair Gaming

The MGA mandates the use of Random Number Generators (RNGs) in all games to ensure fair outcomes. These RNGs are regularly tested and audited by independent third parties to confirm their fairness and randomness.

3. Player Funds Protection

The MGA ensures that player funds are kept separate from the operational funds of the casino. This segregation of funds guarantees that players can withdraw their winnings and deposits even if the casino faces financial difficulties.

4. Responsible Gaming

The MGA promotes responsible gaming practices among its licensees. This includes providing tools and resources to help players manage their gambling habits, such as:

• Self-exclusion options: Players can exclude themselves from gambling for a specified period.
• Deposit limits: Players can set daily, weekly, or monthly deposit limits.
• Reality checks: Notifications that inform players about the time they have spent playing.
• Access to support services: Links to organizations that provide help for problem gambling.

5. Complaint Resolution

The MGA offers a robust complaint resolution mechanism. Players can file complaints directly with the MGA if they believe they have been treated unfairly by a licensed operator. The MGA investigates these complaints and works to resolve them impartially.

6. Data Protection and Privacy

The MGA requires licensees to comply with data protection laws, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). This ensures that players’ personal and financial information is handled securely and confidentially.

7. Anti-Money Laundering (AML)

The MGA enforces strict anti-money laundering policies. Casinos must implement measures to prevent money laundering and terrorist financing, including verifying the identity of players and monitoring transactions for suspicious activity.

8. Regular Audits and Compliance Checks

The MGA conducts regular audits and compliance checks to ensure that licensees adhere to all regulatory requirements. Non-compliance can result in penalties, fines, or revocation of the license.

9. Transparent Operations

The MGA promotes transparency in the operations of its licensees. Casinos are required to provide clear and accurate information about their games, terms and conditions, and payout percentages, helping players make informed decisions.

10. Player Support

Licensed operators must provide efficient and accessible customer support, so that players can get assistance with any issues or questions they may have in a timely manner.

Casino Rules and Regulations by the MGA

The MGA is renowned for its rigorous regulatory framework, which ensures that online casinos operate fairly, transparently, and securely. Here are the key rules and regulations imposed by the MGA on licensed casinos:

Licensing Requirements

Operators must demonstrate financial soundness to ensure they can cover player winnings and operational costs, as well as meeting specific technical standards to ensure their platforms are secure and reliable.

Additionally, key individuals in the company must pass a fit and proper test to prove their integrity and reliability. Applicants must provide detailed business plans, financial projections, and information about key personnel. The MGA conducts thorough due diligence checks on the company and its principals. Those found in violation of regulations may face penalties, including fines, suspension, or revocation of their license.

Fair Gaming Practices

All games must use certified RNGs to ensure randomness and fairness, which are regularly tested by independent auditors. Operators must provide clear information about how their RNGs work and how game fairness is maintained.

Games are subject to regular audits to ensure ongoing compliance with fairness standards, and the MGA expects regular reports detailing game performance and fairness metrics to be submitted.

Player Fund Protection

Operators must keep player funds in separate accounts from operational funds. This ensures that player funds are protected even if the operator faces financial difficulties. Audits are regularly conducted to verify that operators maintain adequate reserves to cover player balances.

Responsible Gaming

Operators must provide self-exclusion options, allowing players to exclude themselves from gaming activities for a specific period. Players can set daily, weekly, or monthly deposit limits to manage their spending. Notifications are provided to inform players about the time spent playing.

Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Counter-Terrorism Financing (CTF)

Operators must verify the identity of their players through Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures, and continuously monitor player transactions to detect and prevent suspicious activities. Reports on any suspicious transactions or activities must be filed, and AML and CTF compliance programs, including staff training and internal controls, have to be set up by the operators.

Advertising and Promotion

The MGA has stringent standards to ensure that all marketing and advertising from its licensed casinos is truthful and not misleading. Licensees are duty-bound to avoid marketing to minors or vulnerable groups, and terms and conditions for bonuses and promotions has to be clear and not deceptive.

5 Benefits of Playing at MGA Casinos

Listed below are five of the best benefits of joining an online Malta casino. You’ll soon discover that there are more advantages than you may have thought. This is because the Malta Gaming Authority holds each MGA casino to the highest of standards when it comes to licensing, and in general, its overall casino offering.

1. Security

You can enjoy greater protection at a MGA licensed casino. MGA casinos use security features such as SSL encryption and 2-factor authentication to keep you safe. It’s very unlikely that any kind of data breach will occur.

2. Instant Payouts

The funds you withdraw from your account are always available instantly. Using cryptos such as Bitcoin or Ethereum will ensure that wait times are at a minimum. The fastest payout casinos are also known for having high withdrawal limits.

3. Casino Game Quality

The overall gaming quality will take your experience to the next level. MGA online casinos are powered by software developers that provide the newest and most entertaining titles. The animations and graphics are very sharp and visually striking.

4. Bonuses & Rewards

You can claim bonuses and earn rewards at every MGA licensed casino. Most casinos will match your first deposit if you’re a new player and offer you free spins. Promotions are also available through contests, tournaments, and VIP programs.

5. Mobile Casino Gaming

Mobile casinos are also becoming a lot more popular, with games now accessible on Android and iOS devices. Keep in mind that there isn’t always an app you can download. However, casino sites are often fully optimized for mobile browsers.

Comparing the Best MGA Online Casinos

Check out the table below, which compares the casino bonus options at MGA casinos that we highly recommend.

Popular Casino Games at MGA Casinos

We also want to break down all the different games you can play while gambling online at a Malta casino site. There are a lot of options, and you should know everything that’s available.

Slots

Online Bitcoin slots are very popular these days. You’ll get to play games with special bonuses, jackpots, hot drops, megaways, and more. We recommend that you visit Dealbet for its vast selection of slot titles.

Table Games

Table games include all the classics, which are played around the world. Blackjack, baccarat, roulette, and offshore poker variants are accessible to new and veteran players. The best casino site for table games is Casino Charles (in our opinion).

Live Dealer Games

You can also play games that feature real-life dealers. Live casino games will allow you to connect and interact with other players from around the world. Access to over 700 live titles becomes available when you join FreshBet.

Crash Games

As you may or may not know, crash gambling sites are taking the world by storm. Crash games involve a multiplier that increases until the crash occurs.

Provably Fair Games

MGA casinos should offer you access to provably fair gambling options. All the games should be tested ahead of time to determine their fairness. Also, the best gaming developers are known for prioritizing quality and integrity.

Other Games

Non-traditional games are also playable at MGA casino sites. They include everything from jackpot titles and lotteries to live game shows and keno. If you’re searching for a more diverse selection, we recommend that you visit Wild.io.

Casino Bonuses Available at the Best MGA Licensed Casinos

Taking advantage of bonuses and promotions is something we always encourage, and there are plenty of cash rewards and additional prizes available when you claim an MGA casino bonus.

Welcome Bonus

Creating an account will make you eligible for a welcome bonus. It’s a promotion that offers you extra funds when you make your first deposit(s). The Terms & Conditions of the bonus can vary depending on the casino you join.

No Deposit Bonus

Many online casinos with an MGA license will also offer a no deposit bonus to new players. This allows you to avoid risking your own money and play casino games. You’ll often receive up to $50 after you create an account and claim your bonus.

Reload Bonus

Players can take advantage of reload bonuses pretty regularly. They’re similar to a welcome bonus — the casino matches a certain percentage of your deposit. Reloads are only available to active players, and you also have to follow the Terms & Conditions.

Free Spins

We also urge you to join an MGA crypto casino with free spins. You can play slot titles and increase your winnings without having to use your own money. Keep in mind that free spins are often exclusive to a select number of games.

VIP Rewards

Loyal players are also rewarded when they remain with one casino over time. You earn points, which can unlock special bonuses such as cashbacks and other gifts. VIP programs will consist of multiple levels, and you can unlock better prizes when you earn a lot of points.

Payment Methods at Casinos With an MGA License

Online banking is also essential when it comes to online gambling. Plenty of secure options are available when you deposit or withdraw funds.

Deposit Methods at Malta Online Casinos

MGA gambling sites will offer you a variety of deposit methods. Top deposit methods at our recommend UK casinos include Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Ethereum, Credit/Debit cards, and eWallets.

Deposit processing times are rather instant, with cryptocurrency taking a few minutes at select online casinos.

Withdrawal Methods at Malta Online Casinos

You often have fewer withdrawal options, but you still have a lot of flexibility. Payouts are usually available via crypto (BTC, ETH), bank transfers, and eWallets (Skrill, Neteller). Payout times are rather instant, especially when you opt to use cryptocurrency. However, some UK casinos may require you to wait up to 48 – 72 hours to receive your payment – it will just depend on the network, the amount, and the payment method.

KYC Verification Requirements at MGA Licensed Casinos

KYC is a process that requires you to provide documentation to confirm your identity. Account verification is pretty prevalent because this allows the casinos to know who’s signing up and gambling. KYC also ensures that everyone is acting legally while gambling online.

The truth is that KYC verification is very important for several reasons. The main purpose of it is to prevent any illegal financial activity from occurring. KYC policies ensure that the casinos and banks are combatting any type of fraud or money laundering.

During the verification process, the casino will request certain documents from you. They often have to verify your actual, physical address. Keep in mind that many Malta Gaming Authority casinos and casinos licensed in Curacao don’t require you to do KYC verification.

Here’s what the casino will request from you when you join:

• ID card (driver’s license, passport)
• Proof of address (utility bill)
• Proof of payment (banking info)

Pros and Cons of MGA Licensed Casinos

MGA licensed casinos are very advantageous and favorable to players. However, they also have their drawbacks, and you should weigh the good against the bad.

Responsible Gaming

Malta casino sites are very entertaining, however, it is important to be aware of the risks involved with gaming at an online casino. Responsible gaming is a critical concept to grasp. Without awareness of responsible gaming best practices, you increase your chances of developing a severe problem that may hinder your future online gambling career.

Therefore, it is important to put responsible gaming tips into practice. These include only betting the amount you’re comfortable losing, avoiding chasing losses, and seek help if you feel like you are developing a gambling problem.

Responsible gaming takes awareness and consistency and if you are consistent in terms of following those top tips, you should be able to enjoy online gambling for a long-time. If you need additional resources related to responsible gaming, you can read our responsible gaming help guide.

Conclusion: The Best MGA Casinos in 2024

The MGA is one of the most respected regulatory bodies in the online gaming industry, known for its stringent standards and rigorous oversight. MGA online casinos are required to adhere to strict guidelines regarding fairness, security, and responsible gambling, ensuring that players can enjoy a safe and transparent gaming environment. MGA casino sites use random number generators (RNGs) for fair play, secure transactions to protect financial information, and measures to prevent problem gambling.

Moreover, MGA online casino sites often feature a wide range of high-quality games from reputable software providers, giving players access to a diverse selection of slots, table games, live dealer options, and more. An MGA casino will always provide a reliable framework for resolving disputes, offering players a trusted avenue for complaints if issues arise. This level of regulatory oversight gives players peace of mind, knowing that they are playing at a legitimate and trustworthy casino where their rights are protected.

FAQs

What are MGA casinos?

MGA casinos are online casinos licensed and regulated by the Malta Gambling Authority. Malta online casinos are bound to follow certain rules and protocols to continue operating.

Are MGA casinos available in my country?

MGA licensed casinos are available in several countries. However, you may have to use a VPN to gain access to them and gamble online.

Which is the best Malta Gaming Authority casino?

The best Malta Gaming Authority casino (the one we really enjoy and recommend) is Dealbet. There are over 8,000 casino games and tons of great bonuses. Other top Malta Gaming Authority casinos include Casino Charles, FreshBet, Instant Casino, and others listed in our guide here.

Can I win real money at Malta casinos?

Yes, you can win real money by gambling at online Malta casinos. You’ll make a deposit and use those funds to play games such as blackjack, slots, and more.

What countries allow MGA casinos?

Malta gambling licenses are valid and legitimate, but geo-restrictions often apply. There’s no list of unrestricted countries per se — it all depends on the casino you want to join and where you live.