In a strict interpretation of the new legal regulation, all table games such as blackjack have been illegal in German online casinos since the new gambling treaty came into force in July 2021. The legal basis prohibits this.
Many German players are wondering whether there is a way to play this table game without falling into the illegal area. Because many people want to play online blackjack legally. In this article, we explain the legal foundations of the game of blackjack and give tips on what players should look out for.
Why is online blackjack no longer permitted?
As long as casinos had an official license, it was possible to play games of chance there for a long time. This included table games such as the well-known blackjack. It was also possible to place slot machines in restaurants and pubs without difficulty, which is why guests were happy to use them during their stay.
Only in Schleswig-Holstein was it possible to obtain a license and thus legally operate online casinos. Failure to comply with the regulations had no consequences due to the complex legal situation.
This was due to the fact that the legal provisions in Germany and the EU were not compatible. Traders and companies have free access to other member states in accordance with the European Single Market. This regulation made it possible to use online casinos with a Maltese license without any problems.
How is it possible to play online blackjack legally?
The new Interstate Gambling Treaty is causing uncertainty among many operators of online casinos in Germany. The regulations are extremely strict, which has resulted in many people withdrawing from the local gambling market.
Many games are illegal due to the new regulations. Including the popular table game blackjack, which is no longer offered in German online casinos. The bonuses, which were particularly generous and tempting in this game, attracted a significant proportion of blackjack enthusiasts. As a result, numerous online casinos have made considerable profits from the table games.
However, it is still possible to legally play online blackjack in Germany. This is based on the European freedom to provide services, which allows an entrepreneur to offer their services in an EU member state. The new gambling treaty has no impact on European law. Online casinos that have a European license, such as those from Malta or Cyprus, may legally offer online blackjack.
Are all forms of blackjack prohibited in Germany?
The game is generally permitted in Germany. The ban in the gambling treaty relates to online casinos. According to the legislators, this serves to combat gambling addiction and prevent money laundering. The gambling treaty currently states that state casinos are the only places in Germany where German citizens can still legally play the well-known table game blackjack. However, numerous online casinos in 2025 have an EU license and are therefore still allowed to offer these games.
German nationals or those living in Germany in particular often make use of these options. It is secretly rumored that the law enforcement authorities will not prosecute a violation of the aforementioned treaty. The game is therefore still available in numerous online casinos. Even if they have a license from Germany. The table game blackjack can no longer be played in state-licensed casinos, as it is illegal there.
This is why players who want to try out this game are often lured to online casinos. These often have a license, but not for the protection of the players. It is therefore questionable whether the Interstate Gambling Treaty has brought about a positive change for players.
Conclusion
The proponents of the Interstate Treaty on Gambling certainly had the players’ welfare in mind. However, this makes it impossible for players to play the common variants of blackjack. This treaty prohibits the game from being offered in online casinos. However, it is essential for a casino to offer table games. This is because the EU’s freedom to provide services comes into play here and still allows table games to be played. If blackjack is legal, this can be answered in the affirmative.