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Poker without a Swedish license 2025: Play on the best poker sites for Swedish players

Want to play poker without a Swedish license? Then you need to choose a reliable casino. We have compiled a list of the 10 best casinos without a Swedish license that have proven their credibility and security in 2025. The ranking is based on independent assessments and reviews from players who prefer to play poker without a gambling break.

All poker sites without a Swedish license listed here lack a national license but are regulated by other jurisdictions. These foreign poker sites offer a wider variety of games, especially in poker, as well as more withdrawal options—not only via Swish and Trustly—and often without having to pay taxes on poker winnings.

Best poker sites without a Swedish license 2025

Here is a list of the 10 best foreign poker sites for 2025 available to Swedish players and other international users. The table shows bonuses, licenses, and links to start playing. Visit one of these sites and start playing poker without a license today. Casinos without a Swedish license are safe, but it’s best to choose sites with good reviews and high ratings in independent rankings.

Poker Site Welcome Bonus License
1 HeyCasino 100% up to €500 + 200 free spins Curacao eGaming
2 iBet Casino 100% up to €200 Malta Gaming Authority
3 Bet365 100% up to €365 UK Gambling Commission
4 Betinia 100% up to €500 + 100 free spins Malta Gaming Authority
5 CoinPoker 150% up to $2,000 Curacao
6 Everygame 125% up to $1,000 Curacao eGaming
7 LeoVegas 100% up to €1,000 + 200 free spins Malta Gaming Authority
8 SlotHype 100% up to €500 + 50 free spins Curacao eGaming
9 SlotOwl 200% up to €1,000 Curacao eGaming
10 SlotsHummer 100% up to €300 + 100 free spins Curacao eGaming
You can personally choose a poker site without a license where you can play for real money, but when choosing to play poker without a Swedish license, it is important to consider the following factors:

  • License and security: Ensure the site has a license from a reliable authority and that it protects your personal data and deposited funds.
  • Bonuses and promotions: Check welcome bonuses and loyalty programs, as well as their terms.
  • Poker game selection: Make sure the site offers the poker variants and stake levels that interest you.
  • Payment methods: Check that the available deposit and withdrawal options suit you.
  • Customer support: Fast and professional customer service is crucial. It’s an advantage if support is available in Swedish, but English works too. Note that playing poker without a Swedish license may mean you don’t have the same consumer protection as with Swedish gaming companies holding a Swedish license. We recommend playing responsibly and being aware of the laws in your country regarding online poker. Online poker without a Swedish license

For Swedish players wanting to play poker on foreign poker sites, the biggest question is whether it’s legal. A Swedish license means that only gaming companies with a Swedish license are allowed to market and offer games in Sweden, but it is not illegal for Swedish players to play poker on foreign platforms. If you choose to play poker outside Sweden, you are not breaking the law, but you must be aware of tax regulations. Winnings from poker on sites licensed within the EU, such as the Malta Gaming Authority, are tax-free for Swedish players. However, income from poker sites without a license in Sweden registered outside the EU may be taxable. This means it is entirely legal to play poker on international poker sites, but Swedish players win at poker outside the EU with greater confidence if they choose a platform with transparent terms. Players who play poker despite lacking a Swedish license should still be aware of the legal aspects and tax rules applicable in Sweden.

Advantages of playing poker on foreign sites

In recent years, Swedish players have increasingly chosen poker without a Swedish license, preferring foreign poker sites. There are several reasons for this. The first is the more generous bonuses, but even more importantly, the absence of strict restrictions and a broader selection of poker games. Unlike sites with a license in Sweden, many poker sites without a Swedish license offer the possibility to play without mandatory gambling breaks. This is particularly important for players who want to play poker at a time that suits them without being interrupted by regulated breaks. The Swedish online poker market is strictly regulated by the Swedish gaming authority, but these restrictions do not always align with players’ interests. On poker sites without a Swedish license, there are more flexible conditions, including:

  • Generous bonuses – On casinos without a Swedish license, deposit bonuses, loyalty programs, and no-deposit bonuses are offered, while Swedish players in Sweden can only receive a one-time bonus upon registration.
  • No gambling breaks – Swedish licensed sites require players to take regular breaks, while poker without breaks on foreign platforms provides complete freedom to play without interruptions.
  • Larger selection of poker – Online poker without a Swedish license offers more poker variants, stakes, and tournaments.
  • Anonymity and easy registration – On many poker sites without a Swedish license, you can play poker without BankID, making the registration process easier.
  • Faster payouts – Swedish sites often have strict controls that can delay payouts. On poker sites without a license in Sweden, withdrawals are usually faster.
  • Tax-free winnings for Swedish players – If poker sites without a license have a license within the EU, for example from the Malta Gaming Authority, winnings are tax-free. Casinos without a Swedish license make it possible to play without gambling breaks and without any restrictions or blocks.

Is it profitable to play poker abroad?

Many Swedish players seeking poker without restrictions choose to play poker on foreign platforms. This makes it possible to participate in international tournaments, choose who they want to play against, and get better offers. Poker without a Swedish license has become a popular choice for players who want to play poker without gambling breaks and are looking for a poker selection without Swedish restrictions.

Disadvantages of playing online poker without a license

Now you know that poker without a Swedish license in 2025 attracts over 80% of Swedish players, thanks to flexibility, bonuses, and freedom from gambling breaks. But it’s also important to understand the risks of playing on poker sites without a license in Sweden. Many options to play poker on foreign sites without a Swedish license

No protection mechanism from Swedish authorities

When players choose to play with gaming companies without a Swedish license, they lose the security that a Swedish gaming license offers. This means:

  • No possibility to file a complaint with Swedish authorities in disputes.
  • Lower requirements for data protection and payment security.
  • Risk that the account may be suspended without explanation. A Swedish license means gaming under strict rules that protect the consumer—a security that is lacking on many foreign sites.

Possible difficulties with withdrawals

Poker without a license in Sweden may offer large bonuses and high stakes, but it can also mean problems with receiving winnings:

  • Longer waiting times for withdrawals.
  • Limited payment methods, for example only cryptocurrencies.
  • Possible additional fees on withdrawals. Some poker sites without a license apply strict verification processes or have hidden withdrawal limits, which can make it harder to withdraw money.

Tax on winnings

If poker sites without a license are registered outside the EU, Swedish players winning at poker outside Sweden may need to pay taxes on their winnings. According to Swedish law, winnings from poker within the EU are tax-free, but winnings from sites outside the EU may be taxed, reducing players’ net profits.

Lack of responsible gaming tools

On poker sites without a Swedish license, many of the responsible gaming tools found on the Swedish market are missing.

  • No automatic gambling break, which can lead to players spending more time and money on gaming than planned.
  • No central system like Spelpaus, meaning players who want to play poker despite a gambling break can continue playing without restrictions. Some players actively seek ways to play poker without a gambling break, but this can lead to negative consequences for individuals who have difficulty controlling their gaming. If you have trouble stopping gaming, it is recommended that you choose gaming companies with a Swedish license.

Uncommon payment methods

Many poker sites without a license in Sweden do not support popular Swedish payment methods such as Swish and Trustly. Instead, the following are used:

  • Cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin, Ethereum).
  • E-wallets (Skrill, Neteller).
  • Mobile payments.
  • International bank transfers, which can take several days. All Swedish players playing poker are not comfortable with these payment methods, especially if they are used to fast transactions within Sweden. On poker sites without a license, there are fewer security measures, increasing the risk of encountering unscrupulous actors. Therefore, it is important to carefully check the platform’s reputation before you start playing and choose poker sites without a Swedish license that have good reviews. Despite these disadvantages, it does not mean we discourage playing poker on foreign sites. If you choose to play poker without a Swedish license, make sure to carefully check the license, payment terms, and support to avoid problems in the future.

What is Spelpaus and how does it affect poker without a Swedish license?

In Sweden, there is a strict self-regulation system for gaming called Spelpaus. This system is designed to protect players from gambling addiction, but its introduction has led to increased interest in poker without a Swedish license. A large part of Swedish players are looking for alternatives to play poker without Spelpaus because, despite the gambling break, it imposes serious restrictions on their gaming opportunities.

How does Spelpaus work?

Spelpaus is a national self-exclusion system that allows players to block their access to gaming companies with a Swedish license for a certain period or indefinitely. When Spelpaus is activated, the player loses the ability to place bets, register on new sites, and receive bonuses from gaming companies with a Swedish license. Exclusion periods can be:

  • 1 month
  • 3 months
  • 6 months
  • Indefinitely (at least 12 months)

How does Spelpaus affect poker?

For many Swedish players, poker without a Swedish license is a way to continue participating in tournaments, cash games, and Sit & Go, despite restrictions on the Swedish market. Poker sites without a Swedish license are not covered by Spelpaus, which means it is possible to play poker despite a gambling break on international poker sites. Learn more about gambling breaks in Swedish casinos with a license Players who start playing poker but encounter restrictions through Spelpaus often seek alternative platforms. Some of the reasons Swedish players turn to poker sites without a Swedish license include:

  • The possibility to play poker without a gambling break without the risk of automatic suspension.
  • Access to online poker without a Swedish license, where registration does not require BankID.
  • Freedom to choose gaming times without having to take breaks.
  • High bonuses, loyalty programs, and VIP clubs not available on poker sites with a Swedish license.

According to Swedish law, poker without a license in Sweden is not prohibited, but Swedish players must be aware that these sites are not regulated by the Swedish gaming license. If a poker site has a license within the EU, such as the Malta Gaming Authority, winnings from poker may be tax-free for Swedish players. Casinos without a Swedish license are as safe as Swedish brands, but they are not required to follow the laws of Sweden or the EU (if they lack an EU license).

What should you know about playing online poker without a Swedish license?

Poker without a Swedish license is becoming increasingly popular among Swedish players seeking more options for their gaming. Unlike licensed Swedish poker sites, poker sites without a Swedish license offer more freedom, larger bonuses, and no strict rules like gambling breaks. However, there are some important aspects to consider before you register.

How does poker without a Swedish license work?

Playing poker without a license means the site is not regulated by the Swedish gaming authority and therefore not covered by Swedish laws. Most of these platforms have a license within the EU, such as from the Malta Gaming Authority, or outside the EU, such as Curacao. On poker sites without a license, Swedish players can:

  • Play poker without a gambling break, unaffected by Swedish restrictions.
  • Receive better bonuses and participate in VIP programs.
  • Use alternative payment methods, including cryptocurrencies.
  • Choose their own stakes and gaming conditions. However, we recommend being cautious when choosing poker sites without a Swedish license, as security can vary.
    Factor Poker sites with a Swedish license Poker sites without a Swedish license
    Bonuses Only upon registration, limited size High bonuses, cashback, free spins, but higher wagering requirements
    Gambling break Mandatory after a certain gaming time Possibility to play poker without a break
    Payment methods BankID, card, Swish Cryptocurrencies, e-wallets, card
    Regulator Swedish license License within the EU or offshore
    Security High, but with strict restrictions Depends on the site’s license and reputation
    Support In Swedish Usually in English
    Poker online without a Swedish license can be a good solution for:
  • Players who want to play poker without a gambling break and avoid Spelpaus.
  • Those seeking a better selection of poker and greater freedom to choose tournaments.
  • Players who do not want to be limited by mandatory gambling breaks.
  • Those who want to play online poker without stakes and Swedish restrictions. Playing poker without a Swedish license means greater freedom but also greater personal responsibility. Always choose poker sites without a license with good reviews and a reliable license within the EU to ensure a safe gaming experience.

Poker variants on casinos without a Swedish license

Players who choose a poker site without a Swedish license gain access to a wide selection of poker variants often not available on casinos with a Swedish license. This allows Swedish players to play poker on foreign sites in various formats—from classic cash games to fast tournaments:

  • Texas Hold’em – The most popular poker variant where players receive two private cards and combine them with five community cards.
  • Omaha – Similar to Texas Hold’em, but each player receives four cards, of which exactly two must be used in the combination.
  • Stud Poker – Differs from other variants by having some cards dealt face up.
  • Short Deck Hold’em (6+) – Here the deck has fewer cards, as all cards lower than six are removed.
  • Spin & Go – Fast tournaments where the prize pool is determined randomly by a multiplier.
  • Satellites to major tournaments – Qualifying tournaments where players can win tickets to larger events. The largest developers of online poker games include Playtech, Microgaming, iPoker, Evolution Gaming, and Pragmatic Play. These companies create software for poker sites without a Swedish license, offering both classic cash games, tournaments, and innovative formats such as fast poker and live poker. Their games are available on both licensed sites and poker sites without a license in Sweden, ensuring high quality and fair play.

Criteria for choosing a secure poker site without a Swedish license

When choosing to play poker without a Swedish license, it is important to consider several factors. Since a Swedish license implies strict regulations, many Swedish players seek alternative platforms outside Sweden. However, it is important to review security, payouts, tax rules, and user-friendliness.

License and regulation

The first thing you should look at is whether the poker site without a Swedish license has a valid gaming license. The license determines how well the platform is regulated and how much player protection is offered. The best choice is to select sites with a license within the EU, such as from the Malta Gaming Authority or the UK Gambling Commission, as this means winnings from poker for Swedish players are tax-free. However, poker sites with licenses from Curacao or Kahnawake may involve certain risks related to taxes and data protection.

Security and payouts

When playing poker without a Swedish license on foreign sites, it is important to ensure the platform has strong security measures and reliable payment methods. The best poker sites without a Swedish license offer:

  • SSL encryption to protect personal data.
  • Fast payouts without hidden fees.
  • Reliable payment methods, such as Skrill, Neteller, and cryptocurrencies. When choosing a poker site without a license, you should always check that the site has clear terms for deposits and withdrawals.

Availability for Swedish players

Many casinos with a Swedish license require BankID for registration, while poker sites without a Swedish license often offer more flexibility. Some poker sites without a license still use BankID, which can make registration more difficult for Swedish players. However, there are also many options where you can play poker without BankID, making it easier to register and start playing.

Tax rules for winnings

The choice of a license within the EU or outside the EU also affects tax rules.

  • If a poker site without a Swedish license is registered within the EU (e.g., Malta), winnings from poker are tax-free for Swedish players.
  • If the site has a license from, for example, Curacao, winnings may be taxed according to Swedish rules. If you win big on a poker site without a license from Curacao, you must declare the winnings yourself to the Swedish Tax Agency. Poker sites without a Swedish license with a Malta Gaming Authority license, however, provide tax-free winnings.

What licenses are available for poker sites without a Swedish license?

When Swedish players choose online poker without a Swedish license, they are often faced with the question: how reliable are poker sites without a license? One of the most important factors for security is whether the site has a license from an international gaming authority. Although a site does not have a Swedish license, it may be registered and controlled by a respected gaming commission. Poker sites without a Swedish license often use licenses from other countries, especially if they target Swedish players. Below are the most popular licensing authorities and their characteristics.

Malta Gaming Authority (MGA)

The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) is one of the most reliable licenses within the EU. It guarantees high security standards and protects players’ rights. Winnings from poker on MGA-licensed sites are tax-free for Swedish players, and all financial transactions are clearly regulated and monitored, especially regarding payout times and fees.
This license is a good choice for players seeking poker without a Swedish license but wanting to play legally within Europe.

Curacao eGaming

Curacao eGaming is a popular offshore license used by many international poker sites. The license makes it easy to register and operate a site, and provides access to cryptocurrencies and flexible payment methods. At the same time, it has a lower level of player protection compared to EU licenses. Winnings from poker may in some cases be taxed in Sweden, but this is rare, as the responsibility for declaring winnings lies with the player themselves.

UK Gambling Commission (UKGC)

The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) is one of the world’s strictest gaming authorities and is known for its high security focus. Poker sites with this license follow strict rules for financial transparency and player protection, meaning only serious operators receive the license. Poker sites without a Swedish license with a UKGC license have high credibility and fair play, but not all accept Swedish players. In some cases, BankID may also be required for registration, which can make it harder for Swedish players to create an account.

Kahnawake Gaming Commission

The Kahnawake Gaming Commission (Canada) is a gaming license that has long been popular among poker sites. It allows players to play poker without a gambling break and provides easier registration terms. For players who want to avoid strict Swedish rules, this can be an alternative. Despite some advantages, the license is not as recognized as European licenses. However, it can be a good choice for Swedish players seeking more freedom in their poker playing, especially if they play on platforms targeting international markets.

Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission (GSC)

The Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission (GSC) offers a high level of security and strict control of operators. Poker sites with this license must undergo extensive background checks and reviews, making them more reliable than some offshore licenses. Unlike licenses from Curacao or Kahnawake, the Isle of Man has strict rules for financial transactions, meaning players can feel secure when making deposits and withdrawals. However, the number of operators with this license is more limited, and not all sites offer generous bonuses.

How to choose the right license when playing poker without a Swedish license?

If Swedish players want to play poker without a Swedish license but still have high security, they should choose sites with a license within the EU (Malta, UK, Isle of Man). These licenses guarantee transparent transactions and protection against fraud. If the main goal is to play poker without a gambling break, have anonymity, and more payment options without having to declare winnings within the EU, a license from Curacao or Kahnawake may be a more flexible alternative.

Bonuses and promotions on casinos without a Swedish license

For Swedish players choosing poker without a Swedish license, one of the biggest advantages is the many bonuses and promotions offered on international poker sites. Unlike casinos with a Swedish license, where bonuses are limited to the first deposit, poker sites without a Swedish license offer a wide range of promotions. This makes the game more profitable and entertaining, especially for those who want to play poker without a gambling break and maximize their winnings.

Welcome bonus upon registration

This is one of the most popular bonuses offered by poker sites without a Swedish license. A welcome bonus can have different conditions, but usually consists of:

  • 100% or more on the first deposit—for example, if a player deposits €100, they receive an additional €100 or even €200 as a bonus.
  • Free spins – free spins on slots as an extra reward for a poker deposit.
  • Combined bonus packages – money + free spins + tickets to poker tournaments. This bonus can only be received once. Casinos with a Swedish license also offer a welcome bonus, but the amounts are significantly lower and the conditions stricter. However, it is important to carefully read the bonus terms, as offers like “Bonus SEK 10,000 upon registration” often hide high wagering requirements. If you have difficulty meeting the bonus requirements, it may be wiser to play poker online without bonuses.

No deposit bonus

Some poker sites without a Swedish license offer a no-deposit bonus. This gives the player a small amount (e.g., €10-€20) or a number of free spins immediately upon registration. A typical example is a birthday bonus or a reward via a promotion code. However, no-deposit bonuses are often associated with strict wagering requirements, making it important to read the terms before activating them.

Reload bonuses

A reload bonus works the same way as a welcome bonus but applies to future deposits. While casinos with a Swedish license only allow one bonus per player, poker sites without a Swedish license offer regular rewards on deposits:

  • 50%-100% extra on each new deposit.
  • Fixed bonuses, for example €50 on a deposit of at least €100.
  • Promotions for specific days of the week, for example “Friday bonus.” This type of bonus makes it possible to benefit continuously, instead of only on the first deposit.

Cashback

Many poker sites without a Swedish license offer cashback, meaning players can get back a portion of their losses during a certain period. Typically, cashback is between 5% and 30%, and it is paid out weekly or monthly. Cashback can come in two forms:

  • Real money – without wagering requirements (but rare).
  • Bonus money – requires the player to meet wagering requirements before they can be withdrawn. For players who bet heavily on poker, cashback can be an attractive option, as it reduces losses and improves profitability.

VIP programs and exclusive promotions

Regulars on poker sites without a Swedish license can gain access to VIP programs where personal bonuses, exclusive tournaments, and faster payouts are offered. The higher the loyalty level, the greater the benefits players can receive, including:

  • Higher cashback and reload bonuses.
  • Tickets to exclusive poker tournaments.
  • Personal account managers and prioritized withdrawals. Since a Swedish license implies strict restrictions on bonus programs, these loyalty benefits are almost exclusively available on poker sites without a Swedish license.

Poker tournaments on casinos without a Swedish license

On the Swedish market, poker tournaments are rare, as a license in Sweden implies strict restrictions on gambling. However, poker sites without a Swedish license offer a large selection of tournaments where players can win real money. The most common tournament formats are:

  • Freerolls – free tournaments where players can win real money without a stake.
  • Guaranteed tournaments – competitions with fixed prize pools regardless of the number of participants.
  • Satellites – tournaments where winners receive tickets to larger events, for example, the World Series of Poker.
  • KO tournaments – games where players receive a reward every time they eliminate an opponent.
  • Spin & Go – fast tournaments where the prize pool is determined randomly. On poker sites without a Swedish license, tournaments are held daily, and Swedish players can participate without restrictions. This means they can not only play poker without a Swedish license but also compete against players from around the world and potentially make poker a source of income.

Bonus on rakeback

Another major advantage of playing poker without a Swedish license is the possibility of receiving rakeback. In Sweden, there is no rakeback mechanism, and players must pay full rake without any refund. On poker sites without a Swedish license, however, it is common for part of the fee paid to be returned to the player. Rakeback can work in several ways:

  • Fixed percentage – for example, 10%-50% of the rake amount is refunded weekly.
  • VIP program – the more you play, the higher the rakeback percentage.
  • Mission- and campaign-based rakeback – rewards for meeting specific requirements. For active players, poker without a Swedish license can become significantly more profitable thanks to rakeback, as part of the gaming costs are refunded.

Payment methods in unlicensed poker in Sweden

Choosing the right payment method is one of the most important factors for players who want to play poker without a Swedish license. Swedish players looking for alternative poker rooms often discover that deposit and withdrawal methods on poker sites without a Swedish license differ from those used in casinos with a Swedish license. To understand the differences, it is important to first look at which payment methods are available in Swedish licensed poker rooms and casinos. Payment for online poker via Trustly On sites with a Swedish license, payment systems are strictly regulated, and the most common deposit and withdrawal methods include:

  • Swish – a popular mobile payment service in Sweden.
  • Trustly – fast bank transfers with BankID.
  • Credit and debit cards (VISA, Mastercard) – available but with certain restrictions.
  • Skrill and Neteller – e-wallets that can be used but with limitations in Swedish casinos.
  • Apple Pay and Google Pay – used for mobile payments. One of the biggest drawbacks for many Swedish players is that BankID is required for all transactions. Additionally, many international payment systems are blocked on Swedish licensed casinos, which is why players turn to poker sites without a Swedish license, where they can use more flexible and anonymous deposit methods. On poker sites without a Swedish license, there is a greater selection of payment options:
  • Cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, USDT) – fast and anonymous payments without bank restrictions.
  • E-wallets (Skrill, Neteller, ecoPayz, MuchBetter, Jeton) – practical for international transactions.
  • SEPA bank transfers and international payment systems – suitable for larger deposits from SEK 50,000 and above.
  • Voucher payments (Paysafecard, Neosurf) – anonymous payment without sharing bank details. Unlike poker sites with a Swedish license, no BankID is required, allowing players to play poker without a gambling break and maintain their anonymity in transactions.
    Payment method Availability in licensed casinos Availability on poker sites without a license Transaction speed Anonymity Possible fees
    Swish Yes No Instant No 0%
    Trustly Yes (requires BankID) Rarely Instant No 0%
    Credit card (Visa/Mastercard) Yes, but with restrictions Yes 1-3 days No Possible fees
    Skrill/Neteller Yes, but not on all sites Yes Instant Medium Possible fees
    Paysafecard/Neosurf No Yes Instant High No
    Cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin, Ethereum, USDT, etc.) No Yes 5 min – 1 hour High Network fees may apply
    SEPA/Bank transfer Yes Yes 1-5 days No Possible fees

BankID in Swedish poker rooms

BankID is an electronic identification system used in Sweden to log in to internet banks, verify identity for government services, and conduct online transactions. On licensed Swedish poker sites, BankID is mandatory for registration, deposits, and withdrawals, as it is a requirement according to the Swedish gaming license. The BankID system is mandatory in Sweden

How does BankID work in online poker?

When a player registers on a poker site with a Swedish license, they must confirm their identity via BankID. This replaces traditional document verification and allows the casino to immediately check the player’s age, residence, and financial history. To deposit or withdraw money, the player must also use BankID. Despite the security benefits, the system entails certain limitations:

  • Reduced anonymity in transactions. All deposits and withdrawals are traceable.
  • Link to Spelpaus. If a player activates a gambling break, they are automatically blocked on all Swedish licensed casinos. This is one of the reasons why many Swedish players look for poker without a gambling break on poker sites without a Swedish license.
  • Limited payment options. BankID links all transactions to Swedish banks and excludes the use of cryptocurrencies, anonymous payment systems, and alternative e-wallets.
  • Increased control from tax authorities. All transactions via BankID are fully visible to Swedish financial supervisory authorities. This means that when playing outside the EU, Swedish tax authorities may require declaration of winnings.

Taxes on poker casinos without a Swedish license

The question of taxation of winnings is always relevant for Swedish players, especially when it comes to playing poker without a Swedish license. A Swedish license means that Swedish authorities regulate the operations of gaming platforms, including the taxation of winnings. The most important rule for Swedish players seeking poker sites without a license is to consider where the operator is registered. According to Swedish legislation, the following applies:

  • Winnings from poker on sites with a license within the EU (e.g., Malta Gaming Authority) are tax-free for Swedish players. This means a player can withdraw their winnings without having to worry about tax declarations.
  • Winnings from poker on sites outside the EU (e.g., with a license from Curacao or Kahnawake) may be taxable in Sweden. In these cases, players are obligated to declare their winnings themselves.
  • If you play poker outside the EU, you should be aware that the Swedish tax rate for gambling winnings can amount to 30% of the net profit earned. When choosing poker sites without a Swedish license, it is therefore important to consider the platform’s license status. Poker sites without a Swedish license regulated within the EU are the most favorable alternative, as they make it possible to avoid tax. Despite this, many players choose to play poker without a Swedish license on international sites with a Curacao license or similar, as these often offer larger bonuses and fewer restrictions. To minimize risks, you should consider the following factors:
  • Where the poker room is registered – European sites are more favorable from a tax perspective.
  • Payment methods – Some platforms allow deposits and withdrawals in cryptocurrencies, which can provide extra anonymity.
  • Documentation for the tax agency – If a site is registered outside the EU, you should prepare to possibly need to report winnings to the Swedish Tax Agency. For players participating in major tournaments such as the World Series of Poker, it is important to understand that different countries have different tax rules.
    In Sweden, casinos with a Swedish license automatically deduct taxes from operators, but not from players. However, if you play poker outside Sweden, you must report any winnings from poker sites without a Swedish license to the Swedish Tax Agency yourself.

How to start playing online poker on foreign sites

Playing poker without a Swedish license is a good way to access a wide selection of games, bonuses, and tournaments without the restrictions that the Swedish license entails. But before you start playing, it is important to choose the right platform and create a gaming account in a secure way.

Choose a reliable poker site

The first step is to choose a poker site without a Swedish license that meets your requirements. Important factors to consider are:

  • License – The best choice is platforms with a license within the EU, such as the Malta Gaming Authority or the UK Gambling Commission, as these provide stronger player protection and tax-free winnings for Swedish players.
  • Game selection – Make sure the platform offers popular variants such as Texas Hold’em, Omaha, and other poker formats.
  • Payment methods – Check that the site supports deposit methods that suit you, especially if you are playing on poker sites without a Swedish license with cryptocurrencies or e-wallets.

Registration on the poker site

After choosing a platform, you must create a gaming account. On casinos with a Swedish license, BankID is required, but on foreign sites, registration usually occurs via email and password. To create an account, you need:

  • Enter correct personal details.
  • Choose a currency for the account (EUR is usually standard, as SEK is not always supported).
  • Confirm registration via email. After registration, you can log in from any device and start playing online poker with real money. However, many poker sites without a Swedish license require verification (KYC policy), where you may need to send personal details such as name, address, and identification documents.

Deposit money

Swedish players who want to play poker without a Swedish license have several options for making deposits:

  • Cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin, Ethereum).
  • E-wallets (Skrill, Neteller).
  • Bank transfers (SEPA).
  • Prepaid cards (Paysafecard). Before making a deposit, it is good to check if the site charges any hidden fees.

Receive a bonus and activate a promotion code

A Swedish license means that casinos cannot offer bonuses after the first deposit, but on poker sites without a Swedish license, players can receive rakeback, free spins, and cashback on recurring deposits. Variety of poker on unlicensed casinos in Sweden

Choose a game and start playing

Once you have deposited money, you can choose which type of poker game you want to play:

  • Cash games – For players who want to play directly without a tournament structure.
  • Tournaments – Perfect for players who want to qualify for larger events, such as the World Series of Poker.
  • Special formats – Fast Spin & Go tournaments or anonymous tables. Before you start playing, it is recommended to read the rules and stakes to minimize risks.

How to play safely in poker without a gambling break

On poker sites without a Swedish license, there are no gambling protection systems, such as a gambling break, which is mandatory in Sweden. This means that players who choose to play poker on international sites must take personal responsibility for their gaming behavior and know when it is time to stop. A Swedish license means that platforms with local registration must implement strict self-limitation mechanisms. Poker without a Swedish license is still possible, even though such rules do not exist on foreign sites. This provides greater freedom, but also requires a more responsible approach from players. It is recommended to set deposit limits in advance, avoid trying to win back losses, and take regular breaks in the game—even if the system does not require it.

Frequently asked questions

What is poker without a Swedish license 2025?

It is poker on international poker sites that are not regulated by Swedish authorities but may have international licenses, for example from Malta or Curacao.

How do casinos without a Swedish license affect poker playing?

They give players more freedom by offering tournaments, bonuses, and the possibility to play without restrictions, such as mandatory gambling breaks. This is a big advantage for those who want to play poker without a Swedish license with fewer restrictions.

What does it mean to play poker without a Swedish license?

It means you use international poker sites where a Swedish license does not apply, making it possible to choose more flexible payment methods and gaming options. Casinos without a Swedish license are a common alternative, but you should be cautious, as no Swedish authority will be able to help you in case of a dispute.

How do you find the best poker site without a Swedish license?

Choose sites with good reviews, an EU license, a wide selection of tournaments, and favorable rakeback offers. Also check the withdrawal terms and make sure the site has a good reputation among players.

What should you consider when playing on poker sites without a Swedish license?

It is important to investigate the license status, payment methods, player reviews, bonus terms, and the quality of customer support to avoid unreliable platforms. Make sure the deposit and withdrawal methods suit your needs.

Tips for choosing the right poker site without a Swedish license?

Choose a platform with a reliable license, secure deposit methods, generous bonuses, and the possibility to play without gambling breaks. Avoid playing on unregulated or unreliable sites, as this may involve risks.

How do you compare different poker sites without Spelpaus?

Compare the sites based on license, game selection, fees, withdrawal speed, and user reviews to find the best option. Your analysis should be thorough and objective. Do not rely solely on marketing promises—always read the terms carefully before registering.