Online Casinos in China

Gambling in China – A Highly Restricted Market

When it comes to gambling, China holds one of the strictest legal frameworks in the world. All forms of gambling—except for state-run lotteries—are prohibited on the mainland, both offline and online. This includes sports betting, poker, online casinos, and even private betting between individuals.

The Criminal Law of the People's Republic of China makes it clear: facilitating or engaging in illegal gambling can lead to heavy fines and even imprisonment. The government also deploys firewalls, blacklists, and payment restrictions to block access to offshore platforms. In other words, if you’re in China, you won’t find a legal, locally licensed online casino at your fingertips.

But Do People Still Gamble Online in China?

Despite the restrictions, millions of Chinese players still find ways to access offshore online casinos. By using VPNs, alternative payment solutions, and crypto wallets, players bypass local controls to enjoy international gaming platforms.

These offshore casinos are usually licensed in jurisdictions like Curaçao, the Philippines, or Malta, and they cater to Chinese players with localized websites, Mandarin-speaking support, and region-friendly deposit methods. It’s a workaround, not an endorsement—but it’s happening on a massive scale.

Chinese players looking to gamble online are often drawn by the convenience, game variety, and privacy that offshore casinos offer—especially those that accept cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, USDT, and Ethereum.

What Types of Games Are Available?

Chinese players who access international platforms have access to the same game variety as any global user—sometimes even with regional themes or exclusive titles.

• Online Slots: From simple fruit machines to complex video slots with Chinese motifs (think dragons, koi fish, and red envelopes)
• Table Games: Baccarat (especially popular), Roulette, Blackjack, and Sic Bo
• Live Dealer Games: Streamed in real-time with Chinese-speaking hosts—offering an authentic casino feel
• Crash Games & Lotteries: Fast-paced, alternative games gaining popularity across Asia

These games are developed by top-tier providers like Evolution, Playtech, Pragmatic Play, and BGaming, all of which are internationally regulated and optimized for mobile play.

The Rise of Crypto Gambling Across Asia

As traditional banking restrictions tighten in many Asian countries—including China—crypto gambling has emerged as a powerful alternative. Digital currencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and USDT offer Chinese players a level of privacy, speed, and accessibility that simply isn’t possible through local payment systems. Many offshore casinos now operate as crypto-first platforms, meaning deposits, withdrawals, and even bonuses are tailored specifically for blockchain users. This shift isn’t just about anonymity—it’s also about freedom. Across Asia, more players are embracing crypto gambling as a way to bypass red tape, avoid currency conversion issues, and enjoy faster cashouts. For Chinese players in particular, crypto casinos represent a rare opportunity to access global gaming markets with fewer barriers.

How Do Chinese Players Make Deposits?

Since banks and traditional cards are closely monitored, Chinese players rely on alternative payment methods to deposit and withdraw funds safely.

Here are the most commonly used options:

• Cryptocurrencies – Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and USDT are popular due to their anonymity and borderless functionality
• eWallets – Options like Perfect Money, Jeton, and regional wallets (where accepted)
• Vouchers & Prepaid Cards – Neosurf, Flexepin, and other prepaid methods are often supported
• Third-Party Payment Agents – Some offshore casinos partner with local agents who help facilitate deposits in Chinese Yuan

It’s essential for players to choose casinos that clearly outline how deposits and withdrawals work in China, especially with regard to fees and processing times.

Mobile Access & Technology Barriers

Accessing casino platforms from China typically requires the use of a VPN or proxy tool due to local internet restrictions. That said, most international online casinos are fully optimized for mobile play, meaning Chinese users can still enjoy seamless gaming on both Android and iOS devices—despite the legal and technical barriers.

Most games are built with HTML5, so they work smoothly through browsers without needing to download any apps (which may be restricted on local app stores).

Safety, Fairness & Responsible Gambling

Even when playing at offshore casinos, safety matters. Players in China are advised to stick with licensed platforms that are:

• Certified by recognized regulators (e.g., MGA, Curaçao, PAGCOR)
• Transparent with bonus rules and withdrawal policies
• Using RNG-tested games for fairness
• Offering tools for self-exclusion and responsible gambling

While enforcement on the player side is rare, there is always some legal risk involved. It’s crucial to stay informed and choose platforms that prioritize discretion and data protection.

Macau – The Legal Exception, But No Online Access

Macau, often dubbed the "Las Vegas of Asia," is the only region in China where gambling is fully legal—but only in physical casinos. Online gambling is not authorized even within Macau’s jurisdiction. So while it’s a top tourist destination for high-stakes play, it doesn’t provide a digital solution for Chinese residents looking to gamble online.

Online Gambling in China Today

Online gambling in China is a complex, highly regulated, and often underground activity. While the laws are strict and access is limited, many players still find ways to enjoy real-money casino games through offshore platforms.

The rise of crypto payments, live dealer studios, and VPN-friendly casino sites means that the online casino experience remains very much alive—albeit in the shadows.

For players who decide to navigate this path, the most important advice is this: be informed, choose reputable sites, and prioritize safety over short-term thrills. As China’s digital policies continue to evolve, so too will the underground world of online gambling in the region.