What Is a Wagering Requirement?
A wagering requirement (also called a playthrough requirement) is the number of times you must bet a bonus amount — or sometimes the bonus plus your deposit — before any winnings derived from it can be withdrawn as real cash.
For example: You receive a €100 bonus with a 30x wagering requirement. You must place a total of €3,000 in bets (€100 × 30) before the bonus-generated winnings become withdrawable.
Why Do Casinos Have Wagering Requirements?
Wagering requirements exist to protect casinos from players who would simply claim a bonus, withdraw it immediately, and never return. They are a standard business practice — but the size of the requirement varies enormously and directly affects how valuable an offer actually is.
Key Bonus Terms to Understand
What Is the Wagering Base?
Pay close attention to whether the requirement applies to:
- Bonus only — e.g., 30x applies only to the €100 bonus = €3,000 total wagering required
- Bonus + Deposit — e.g., 30x applies to your €100 deposit plus €100 bonus = €6,000 total wagering required
The second scenario is significantly more demanding. Always confirm which applies.
Game Contribution Percentages
Not all games contribute equally toward clearing a wagering requirement. A typical structure:
| Game Type | Typical Contribution |
|---|---|
| Video Slots | 100% |
| Classic Slots | 50%–100% |
| Table Games (Blackjack, Roulette) | 10%–20% |
| Live Casino | 0%–10% |
| Video Poker | 0%–25% |
If you play a game with 50% contribution, only half of your bets count toward clearing the requirement — effectively doubling the work needed.
Time Limits
Most bonuses expire within 7–30 days. If you don't clear the wagering requirement within the time limit, the bonus and any associated winnings are forfeited. Always check the expiry window before accepting an offer.
Maximum Bet Rules
Many casinos impose a maximum bet per spin while a bonus is active — commonly €5 or €10 per spin. Exceeding this can result in your bonus being voided entirely. This rule is easy to miss in the terms but critical to follow.
Game Restrictions
Certain high-RTP games or specific titles may be excluded from bonus play entirely, or capped at reduced contribution rates. Check the excluded games list before you start.
How to Evaluate Whether a Bonus Is Worth It
Use this framework to quickly assess any offer:
- Calculate total wagering required — multiply the base amount by the requirement multiplier
- Check the time limit — is it realistically achievable in that period for your playing style?
- Identify which games count 100% — and whether you enjoy those games
- Factor in the RTP of contributing games — a 30x requirement through a 95% RTP slot means you statistically lose 5% × €3,000 = €150 to clear a €100 bonus. That's a net negative.
- Check maximum bet and game restrictions — deal-breakers if they limit your normal play style
Free Spins Bonuses: The Same Rules Apply
Free spins are a popular promotional format. Key points:
- Free spin winnings are almost always subject to wagering requirements before withdrawal
- Winnings from free spins are often capped (e.g., maximum €50 withdrawable from free spin winnings)
- The specific slot designated for free spins may have low RTP — check before you play
The Bottom Line
Bonuses are not free money — they are an incentive with conditions attached. A high bonus amount with a very high wagering requirement can be harder to benefit from than a smaller bonus with fair terms. Always read the terms before claiming any promotion.