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Greece Betting Sites

Written by Paul Kemp
Paul Kemp is an experienced sports writer covering Soccer, NBA and NHL. He also writes in depth reviews of sports betting sites based on his personal experience.
, | Updated:

Below, you can find our expert reviews of reputable and regulated sports betting sites operating in Greece. Each betting site has been thoroughly tested and verified by our team.

  1. MyBookieRating: 4.9
  2. BovadaRating: 4.8
  3. XBetRating: 4.7
  4. EverygameRating: 4.6
  5. BetUSRRating: 4.5
  6. VaveRating: 4.4

Gambling on the outcomes of sporting competitions has long been an integral part of Greek culture. This small Mediterranean country introduced the Olympic Games to the world in the 8th century BC, when a man named Coroebus became the first Olympic champion by winning the 192-meter foot race known as the “stade.”

Sporting competitions took place in major cities of Ancient Greece, such as Olympia, Delphi, Corinth, and Nemea, with discus throwing, wrestling, foot races, and long jumping ranking among the most popular sports of the time. Those who triumphed in the competitions were often rewarded for their efforts with monetary prizes, but many spectators did not leave empty-handed either. Entire fortunes changed hands as people wagered on the outcomes of sporting events.

The Greeks’ love of sports and wagering continues into the 21st century. OPAP, the country’s lottery and betting operator, reported that the sports betting sector was on track for record revenue in 2018. Indeed, wagering on the outcomes of sporting competitions ranks among the most widespread forms of betting among Greek gamblers, who love to bet on athletics, soccer, and basketball.

Greek Sports Betting Sites Ranked by Trustpilot Rating

Comparison of Sports Betting Sites in Greece

SportsbookSports on OfferMin DepositMin WithdrawalMin BetBonusesBonus Wagering RequirementsIn-Play BettingLicenses
22BetFootball, Tennis, Basketball, Ice Hockey, Volleyball, and over 40 other sports• $10 for MiFinity; • 0.001 BTC for Bitcoin; • $11.64 for most other methodsDepends on payment provider$0.30/€0.20

• 100% Welcome Bonus up to $/€122
• Friday Reload Bonus
• $256 for being active on mobile app
• Refund on Losing Bets
• Weekly Rebate

• 5x bonus funds on accumulator bets (Welcome Bonus)
• 3x bonus funds on accumulator bets (Friday Reload)
• 3x bonus funds on accumulator bets (Mobile App Bonus)

Yes

Kahnawake Gaming Commission (#00882);

Curacao Gaming Authority (OGL/2024/590/0758)

20BetFootball, Tennis, Basketball, Table Tennis, Ice Hockey, and 30+ other sports• $21 - Bitcoin; • $10 - Other Methods$/€10$/€0.10

• 100% Welcome Bonus up to $/€100
• Saturday Reload Bonus 100% up to $/€100
• Forecast Free Bets

• 5x bonus amount on accumulator bets at odds of 2.0 or higher (Welcome Bonus)
• Winnings have no wagering requirements (Saturday Reload Bonus)
• Full free bet wagered (Forecast free bets)

Yes

Curaçao Gaming Authority (OGL/2024/590/0758)
Kahnawake Gaming Commission (#00882)

NovibetBasketball, Football, Soccer, Tennis, Hockey, Virtual Sports, and 30+ other sports$5: ApplePay, PaysafeCard; $10: Credit/Debit card, Interac, eWallets, Rapid Transfer$10: Credit/Debit Card, eWallets; $30: Bank Transfers$0.10

Sports Welcome Bonus Bet €10 Get €70

  • New players to use promocode BET10GET70 to get a €20 Free Bet, credited within 24 hours after the first deposit
  • Min deposit €10 to qualify for up to €50 in free bets
  • No WR on free bet winnings
  • Free Bets validity – 30 days
  • Max profits capped at €5,000
Yes

Malta Gaming Authority (#MGA/CRP/186/2010)

The Irish Revenue Commissioners (1020856)

bet365Football, Tennis, Speedway, Table Tennis, and 40+ other sports$/€5-10$/€5-10$/€0.10

Open Account Offer

Open an account with bet365 today and bet on a huge range of markets with the world’s favourite online sports betting brand.

Yes
NetBetFootball, Horse Racing, Tennis, Basketball, Virtual Sports, and 35+ other sports$/£/€10$/£/€10€0.07 for pre-live betting and €0.13 for live betting

N/A

N/A

Yes

MGA (MGA/B2C/126/2006)

UKGC (39170)

RabonaSoccer, Horse Racing, Virtual Sports, Tennis, and 35+ other sports•€30 for BTC; •€10 for other methods•Fiat methods - €10; •USDC, USDT, XRP, ADA - €30; •ETH - €40; •BTC: - €60; •BCH - €10$/€1

•First Deposit Bonus: 100% up to €100;
•50% up to €50 risk-free;
•Cashback Bonus of 10% up to €500

First Deposit Bonus
•Minimum qualifying deposit – €20;
•5x wagering requirements for customers from Switzerland, Finland, Austria, Germany, and Norway;
•6x wagering requirements for customers from other countries;
•Minimum odds of 2.00 for settled single bets;
•Minimum odds of 1.50 per selection for multi bets
•Skrill and Neteller deposits are ineligible
•Maximum cashout restricted to 10x the bonus value

Yes

•Ireland Revenue Commissioners (1020581)
•Anjouan Gaming Board (ALSI-202411077-FI2)
•Operated by Naale Limited in Ireland and Stellar Limited in Anjouan

1xBitBaseball, Football, eSports, Horse Racing, Rugby, Soccer, and 40+other sports0.01 mBTC; 20 mETH; 10 mLTC0.21 mBTCVaries based on accountcurrency

Up to 7 BTC and
250 free spins
on the first four
deposits

40x on single and
parlay bets with min.
odds of 1.60

0,1 mBTC min. deposit

Yes

Government of the Autonomous Island of Anjouan (ALSI-202409027-FI2)

Stake.comSoccer, Tennis,Baseball, Basketball, Cricket, American Football, and 30+ other sportsNo minimum or maximum deposit limits for crypto• BTC: 0.00002504; • ETH: 0.00062610; • LTC: 0.01857329• Crypto: $0.00001 per bet; • Fiat: 0.10 regardless of currency

Regularly updated promotions, including event-specific bonuses

N/A

Yes

Curaçao Gaming Authority (OGL/2024/1451/0918)
Columbia (C1751)
Mexico (DGAJS/SCEVF/P-06/2005-TER EN)
Peru (N° 4748-2024-MINCETUR/VMT/DGJCMT, N° 4749-2024-MINCETUR/VMT/DGJCMT)
Secretariat of Prizes and Bets at Brazil’s Ministry of Finance (PORTARIA SPA/MF Nº 263)

Sportsbet.ioSoccer, Tennis, Baseball, eSports, Virtual Sports, Horse Racing, and 30 other sports• BTC 0.000007; • ETH 0.00013; • LTC 0.002• BTC 0.0005; • 0.01 ETH; • 0.1 LTC• mBTC 0.01 (BTC 0.00001); • ETH 0.001; • LTC 0.01

Champions Welcome Bonus for Sports or Casino (100% up to 300 USDT or 3 mBTC)

• Minimum deposit of 0.1 mBTC;
• Wagering requirements of 10x (40x for casino);
• Available for BTC, USDT, TON, and TRX deposits;
• Minimum odds of 1.50 during bonus wagering;
• Expires after 7 days

Yes

Curaçao Gaming Authority (OGL/2023/110/0072)

Top 9 Betting Sites for Greece

  1. 22Bet

    22Bet logo
    Bet Now Review
    Licenses
    Kahnawake Gaming Commission (#00882);Curacao Gaming Authority (OGL/2024/590/0758)
    Min Deposit
    • $10 for MiFinity; • 0.001 BTC for Bitcoin; • $11.64 for most other methods
    Min Withdrawal
    Depends on payment provider
    Withdrawal Time
    • Cryptocurrencies - 24 hours • E-wallets - 15 minutes • Credit and debit cards - up to 7 business days
    Deposit Methods
    Visa logoMastercard logoNeteller logoSkrill logoPaysafecard logoBank Transfer logoBitcoin logoDogecoin logoEthereum logoDash logoMonero logoTether logoLitecoin logoRipple logoMiFinity logoRevolut logoEU SEPA bank transfer logoCardano  logoGoogle Pay logoDiscover logoBinance Coin logoChainlink logoUSD Coin logoPolygon logoTron logoEthereum Classic logo
    Sponsorships
    N/A
    Contact Details
    Live Chat: Yes email: support-en@22bet.com Phone: +357 99 816806
    X profileInstagram profileLinkedIn profile
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    • Coverage of more than 1,000 sporting events every day
    • More than 100 payment methods
    • Minimum deposit of just $1
    • A broad range of limited-time and ongoing sportsbook promotions
    • Native iOS and Android apps
    • Dedicated customer support in multiple languages

    Greek bettors can rely on 22bet when searching for competitive odds on some of the biggest sporting events. The bookmaker offers an engaging and rewarding experience, with diverse markets that let you choose the bets that suit you best.

    While 22bet delivers a smooth betting experience from the comfort of home, the bookie also provides a fully optimized mobile version that makes wagering on the go easy. Whether you want to place a pre-match bet or explore in-play betting, 22bet allows you to choose your preferred stakes.

  2. 20Bet

    20Bet logo
    Bet Now Review
    Licenses
    Curaçao Gaming Authority (OGL/2024/590/0758) Kahnawake Gaming Commission (#00882)
    Min Deposit
    • $21 - Bitcoin; • $10 - Other Methods
    Min Withdrawal
    $/€10
    Withdrawal Time
    • E-wallets - 12 hours • Cryptos - 24 hours • Credit/debit cards - 7 business days
    Deposit Methods
    Visa logoMastercard logoPaysafecard logoPerfect Money logoBitcoin logoEthereum logoLitecoin logoMiFinity logoecoPayz logoCashtoCode logoJeton logoeZeeWallet logoFlexepin logoNeosurf logoInterac logoPOLi logoNeteller logoSkrill logoTether logoDogecoin logoRipple logoCardano  logoSolana logoBinance Coin logoChainlink logoPolkadot logoBank Transfer logo
    Sponsorships
    N/A
    Contact Details
    Live Chat: Yes email: support@20bet.com Phone: N/A
    X profileInstagram profileTelegram accountLinkedIn profile
    Chart loading...
    • Extensive coverage of top sporting events
    • A generous welcome offer
    • Supports secure and easy-to-use payment methods
    • All bettors are automatically enrolled in 20bet's VIP program
    • Android and iOS users can bet through 20bet's fully optimized mobile version
    • 24/7 live chat customer support

    If you are looking for a reliable online bookmaker where you can place your favorite sports bets, visit the official 20bet website. This betting brand provides a fair, safe, and entertaining betting experience. The bookmaker also caters to Greek bettors, allowing them to wager on a wide range of local and international sporting events.

    As a 20bet member, you gain access to numerous betting categories, such as match winner, totals, handicaps, and more. Live betting is also available, with in-play markets offered on many events. For hassle-free payments, the bookmaker supports a wide range of methods, including several popular cryptocurrencies.

  3. Novibet

    Novibet logo
    Bet Now Review
    Licenses
    Malta Gaming Authority (#MGA/CRP/186/2010)The Irish Revenue Commissioners (1020856)
    Min Deposit
    $5: ApplePay, PaysafeCard; $10: Credit/Debit card, Interac, eWallets, Rapid Transfer
    Min Withdrawal
    $10: Credit/Debit Card, eWallets; $30: Bank Transfers
    Withdrawal Time
    Credit/Debit Card, Bank Transfers: up to 3 days; eWallets: within 1 hour
    Deposit Methods
    Visa logoMastercard logoNeteller logoSkrill logoSkrill 1-Tap logoPaysafecard logoBank Transfer logoRapid Transfer logoInterac logoApple Pay logoIRIS Online Payments logo
    Sponsorships
    Fortaleza, Huachipato FC, Aris FC, Atromitos FC, Volos FC, Asteras Tripolis, Panaitolikos, Panserraikos, Omonoia, Anorthosis
    Contact Details
    Live Chat: Yes Email: support@novibet.com
    Facebook profileX profileInstagram profileYouTube chanelLinkedIn profile
    Chart loading...
    • Coverage of top sports with diverse betting markets
    • Dedicated Android and iOS apps
    • Convenient payment options
    • 24/7 customer support
    • Generous promotions for newcomers and regular bettors
    • High level of protection through SSL encryption

    Greek punters will rarely find a better destination for sports betting than Novibet. Since the sportsbook initially targeted Greek customers, it knows how to deliver a tailored experience. To start your journey at Novibet, visit the sportsbook lobby and explore the diverse sports covered by the bookie. Major leagues are included, and competitive odds are available across numerous events.

    Live betting is also worth exploring because it allows you to wager on events in real time. To make the experience even more accessible, Novibet offers a dedicated app for both Android and iOS devices.

  4. bet365

    bet365 logo
    Visit Review
    Licenses
    Min Deposit
    $/€5-10
    Min Withdrawal
    $/€5-10
    Withdrawal Time
    Cards, E-wallets, Paysafecard: 1-4 hours; Apple Pay: instant; Wire Transfer: 1-2 banking days
    Deposit Methods
    Visa logoMastercard logoNeteller logoSkrill logoSkrill 1-Tap logoPayPal logoPaysafecard logoTrustly logoBank Transfer logoInstadebit logoiDebit logoAstropay logoInterac logoApple Pay logoMaestro logoiDeal logoKlarna  logoMiFinity logo
    Sponsorships
    UEFA Champions League
    Contact Details
    Live Chat: Yes; Email: support.eng@customerservices365.com; Phone: 00 800 1236 5365
    Facebook profileX profileLinkedIn profile
    Chart loading...
    • Extensive experience in the online gaming industry
    • A variety of bonuses and promotions
    • Responsive customer support
    • Dedicated apps for iOS and Android users
    • Competitive odds
    • Wide market coverage

    Greece is one of many countries where bet365 operates, giving bettors the chance to enjoy a high-quality betting experience. The sportsbook caters to various types of bettors, providing odds on a wide array of events. Football, tennis, and basketball are popular options, but bettors can explore many additional sports.

    To accommodate different preferences, the bookie provides both pre-match and live betting, each with its own selection of markets. For those on the move, a dedicated mobile app makes wagering on the go easy.

  5. Rabona

    Rabona logo
    Licenses
    •Ireland Revenue Commissioners (1020581) •Anjouan Gaming Board (ALSI-202411077-FI2) •Operated by Naale Limited in Ireland and Stellar Limited in Anjouan
    Min Deposit
    •€30 for BTC; •€10 for other methods
    Min Withdrawal
    •Fiat methods - €10; •USDC, USDT, XRP, ADA - €30; •ETH - €40; •BTC: - €60; •BCH - €10
    Withdrawal Time
    •Bank cards - 2-5 days; •E-wallets, Crypto - instant
    Deposit Methods
    Mastercard logoPaysafecard logoSkrill logoSkrill 1-Tap logoNeteller logoJeton logoMiFinity logoBitcoin Cash logoTether logoBitcoin logoLitecoin logoEthereum logoRipple logoUSD Coin logoInterac logoBank Transfer logoVisa logoRapid Transfer logoCardano  logoNeosurf logoMuchBetter logoRevolut logoPIX logoAktia logoPOP Pankki logoDanske Bank logoS-Pankki logoNordea logoZimpler logoOp-Pohjola logoÅlandsbanken logoSäästöpankki logoPankkisiirto  logo
    Sponsorships
    SSC Napoli
    Contact Details
    Live Chat: Yes Email: support@rabona.com
    Telegram accountYouTube chanel
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    • Extensive selection of pre-match bets
    • Live betting on numerous sporting events
    • Fully optimized for mobile devices
    • Plenty of promotions for new and existing members
    • Supports many secure payment methods
    • Quick responses from the customer support team

    Rabona is a betting brand that caters to numerous punters, including those based in Greece. The bookie offers competitive odds on numerous sporting events, allowing Rabona members to wager on some of the biggest leagues and tournaments worldwide.

    In addition to a wide range of pre-match options, the bookie offers plenty of in-play bets. This category allows bettors to place wagers while matches unfold in real time and choose from various markets, making the experience more engaging.

  6. BC.Game

    BC.Game logo
    Licenses
    The Government of the Autonomous Island of Anjouan (ALSI-202410011-FI1)
    Min Deposit
    0.00001 BTC; 1 USDT; 0.0003 ETH; 0.009 LTC
    Min Withdrawal
    0.000874 BTC; 22.5384 USDT; 0.0205 ETH; 0.105 LTC
    Withdrawal Time
    5 to 10 minutes (1 to 6 hours for larger transactions)
    Deposit Methods
    Bitcoin logoEthereum logoTether logoRipple logoDogecoin logoLitecoin logoTron logoBitcoin Cash logoStellar  logoChainlink logoPolkadot logoEOS logoUSD Coin logoDai logoMonero logoUniswap logoBitcoin SV logoAave logoYearn.finance (YFI) logoBinance Coin logoSolana logoPolygon logoCosmos Atom logoNano logoKava logoTHORChain (RUNE) logoToncoin logoDash logoCardano  logoThe Sandbox (SAND) logoShiba Inu logoBasic Attention Token logo
    Sponsorships
    LCFC; Cloud9 - CS2; Cloud9 - Dota2; Jason Derulo, Leicester City FC (2024/2025), St. Kitts & Nevis Patriots, Lil Pump, Colby Covington, Antonio Brown, Kwara United FC, Sashimi Poker
    Contact Details
    Live Chat: YesEmail: support@bc.gamePhone: N/A
    Facebook profileX profileInstagram profileTelegram accountDiscord channe
    Chart loading...
    • Crypto sportsbook supporting a wide range of cryptocurrencies
    • Fast and secure payments
    • Extensive sports coverage
    • In-play bets on a variety of sporting events
    • Optimized for any mobile device
    • Safe betting experience supported by industry-standard security tools

    Anyone interested in a modern way of betting online can visit BC.GAME. The brand allows members to use cryptocurrencies for deposits and withdrawals, providing safe and convenient sports betting. Greek punters can also join the crypto sportsbook and wager on many of their favorite sporting events.

    Since the sports section covers numerous sports, it is easy to find major events and back the teams or players you support. Both pre-match and live betting are available to BC.GAME members, accommodating different types of bettors.

  7. 1xBit

    1xBit logo
    Bet Now
    Licenses
    Government of the Autonomous Island of Anjouan (ALSI-202409027-FI2)
    Min Deposit
    0.01 mBTC; 20 mETH; 10 mLTC
    Min Withdrawal
    0.21 mBTC
    Withdrawal Time
    Few minutes to 1 hours
    Deposit Methods
    Bitcoin logoEthereum logoTron logoBitcoin Cash logoEthereum Classic logoRipple logoLitecoin logoDogecoin logoDash logoMonero logoZCash logoNEM logoDigiByte logoVerge logoQTUM logoCardano  logoStellar  logoPolkadot logoToncoin logoAvalanche logoCosmos Atom logoPolygon logoTether on Ethereum logoTether logoBinance Coin logoSolana logoUSD Coin logoDai logoChainlink logoShiba Inu logo
    Sponsorships
    N/A
    Contact Details
    Live Chat: Yes; Email: support-en@1x-bit.com, security@1x-bit.com, Phone: N/A
    X profileInstagram profileTelegram accountYouTube chanel
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    • Crypto sportsbook supporting a wide range of cryptocurrencies
    • Covers numerous popular sports
    • Live betting available on many sporting events
    • Mobile version compatible with various smart devices
    • Responsive customer support
    • Supports multi-view

    With crypto betting becoming increasingly popular, Greek punters may want to try something different. In that case, they can visit 1xbit, where they will find numerous betting options and fast, secure payments processed through various cryptocurrencies.

    Football, basketball, and tennis are only a few of the sports 1xbit covers. Bettors can explore many other categories and find competitive odds across numerous events. The bookie provides diverse markets that can make the experience more engaging. Additionally, bettors can claim available 1xbit promotions to add value to their wagers.

  8. Stake.com

    Stake.com logo
    Licenses
    Curaçao Gaming Authority (OGL/2024/1451/0918) Columbia (C1751) Mexico (DGAJS/SCEVF/P-06/2005-TER EN) Peru (N° 4748-2024-MINCETUR/VMT/DGJCMT, N° 4749-2024-MINCETUR/VMT/DGJCMT) Secretariat of Prizes and Bets at Brazil's Ministry of Finance (PORTARIA SPA/MF Nº 263)
    Min Deposit
    No minimum or maximum deposit limits for crypto
    Min Withdrawal
    • BTC: 0.00002504; • ETH: 0.00062610; • LTC: 0.01857329
    Withdrawal Time
    • Crypto: Instant; • Bank Transfers: 3 business days
    Deposit Methods
    Bitcoin logoEthereum logoLitecoin logoDogecoin logoBitcoin Cash logoTron logoEOS logoTether logoCronos logoUSD Coin logoApeCoin logoDai logoChainlink logoThe Sandbox (SAND) logoShiba Inu logoUniswap logoPolygon logoSolana logoEU SEPA bank transfer logoGoogle Pay logoPIX logoVisa logoMastercard logoMaestro logoApple Pay logoBank Transfer logoBinance USD logo
    Sponsorships
    UFC, Everton Football Club, Enyimba Football Club, Team Vitality (eSports), Stake F1 Team, Drake, Esporte Clube Juventude, FBC Melgar, Trinbago Knight Riders, Fortaleza CEIF, Club Deportivo Nublense, Davis Cup, Kun Aguero, Patrice Evra, Israel Adesanya, Alex Pereira, Valentina Shevchenko, Merab Dvalishvili, Alexandre Pantoja, Caio Borralho, Frankie Dettori
    Contact Details
    Live Chat: Yes Email: support@stake.com
    Facebook profileX profileInstagram profileYouTube chanelLinkedIn profile
    Chart loading...
    • Supports a wide range of cryptocurrencies
    • Covers the most popular sports
    • Offers both pre-match and in-play betting
    • Provides ways to buy crypto directly on the site for wagering
    • Quick and secure payments
    • Responsive live support

    Greek bettors can enjoy an engaging experience at Stake.com, a popular crypto sportsbook. Instead of relying exclusively on standard payment methods, members can manage their wallets using popular cryptocurrencies and benefit from fast, secure payments. Users can also purchase crypto with traditional methods and begin betting immediately.

    Bettors who join Stake.com have access to competitive odds on major events, while the bookie also covers niche sports. When browsing the site, you will find in-play markets on numerous events, adding more excitement to the experience.

  9. Sportsbet.io

    Sportsbet.io logo
    Licenses
    Curaçao Gaming Authority (OGL/2023/110/0072)
    Min Deposit
    • BTC 0.000007; • ETH 0.00013; • LTC 0.002
    Min Withdrawal
    • BTC 0.0005; • 0.01 ETH; • 0.1 LTC
    Withdrawal Time
    Within 15 minutes
    Deposit Methods
    Bitcoin logoEthereum logoTether logoLitecoin logoRipple logoDogecoin logoCardano  logoBinance Coin logoPolygon logoShiba Inu logoSolana logoUSD Coin logoTron logoToncoin logo
    Sponsorships
    La Liga, Nwankwo Kanu, Brett Lee, Tristan Thompson, World Snooker Tour (Players Championship, Tour Championship and Champion of Champions)
    Contact Details
    Live Chat: YesEmail: hello@sportsbet.ioContact Us Form
    Facebook profileX profileInstagram profileTelegram accountYouTube chanelTikTok profile
    Chart loading...
    • Crypto sportsbook supporting multiple cryptocurrencies
    • Fast and easy payments
    • Competitive odds on a wide range of events
    • Live betting across numerous sports
    • Generous sportsbook promotions
    • Clubhouse TV with in-play betting tips and commentary

    Bettors can enjoy a high-quality sports betting experience by joining Sportsbet.io and wagering on their favorite events. As a crypto sportsbook, it allows punters to use popular cryptocurrencies to fund their wallets and withdraw winnings. Using cryptocurrencies enables fast and secure payments.

    Beyond convenient payments, Sportsbet.io provides an engaging experience through a variety of wagering options. The bookie covers popular sports along with several niche categories. With numerous markets and extensive in-play offerings, this sportsbook provides plenty of options for sports bettors.

The legal situation surrounding sports betting in Greece is somewhat complex, but this has not prevented many locals from placing wagers online, where they have access to a wealth of betting markets, competitive odds, and a variety of enticing bonuses and promotions.

In this Sportingpedia guide to sports wagering in Greece, you will find information about the legal landscape, current regulations, and the most important betting laws, followed by sections on market coverage, available promotions, and supported payment methods for bettors in the country.

Legality and Regulation of Sports Betting in Greece

Legality and RegulationOnline sports betting and gambling in general are legal in Greece, with punters having a choice of various land-based sportsbooks that operate under licenses issued by the state-owned OPAP (Organization of Football Prognosis). The latter also holds a monopoly over the country’s online sports betting sector, with very few offshore operators holding interim licenses to serve customers from Greece.

This has given rise to a thriving gray market, as many Greek punters choose to take their sports betting action to unauthorized offshore betting sites that continue to accept wagers from the country despite the restrictions. At the time of writing, there are no known cases of Greek bettors being prosecuted under the law for participating in sports betting through foreign sportsbooks that lack domestic licenses.

That being said, punters in the country are required to pay taxes on winnings earned through sports betting. Before the changes introduced in 2013, Greek sports bettors were required to pay a 10% tax on their profits.

The 2013 amendments to the law introduced a tiered taxation system in which the rates vary depending on the amount won. Those who earn profits between €100 and €500 are expected to pay a 15% tax, whereas winnings exceeding this threshold are taxed at 20%. Casual punters who earn less than €100 are not taxed.

It should be noted that Greeks who bet at offshore online sportsbooks are not necessarily subject to taxation for the simple reason that there is no regulatory framework governing winnings generated on websites licensed in foreign jurisdictions. However, it is every Greek punter’s responsibility to pay taxes on their winnings.

Online betting gained such massive traction in Greece at the beginning of the 21st century that the country’s government attempted to ban internet wagering altogether in 2002. Following the economic impact of the 2008 to 2010 financial crisis, Greek legislators were forced to reconsider their stance on online gambling in 2010.

In 2011, as many as 24 temporary licenses were issued to online betting companies, including major players in the sports betting industry, such as Ireland-based Paddy Power and Britain-based Ladbrokes and William Hill. Those who violated Greek laws by accepting sports wagers without a domestically issued license faced severe penalties, including hefty fines and imprisonment.

The good news is that Greece is set to open its market permanently to foreign competition by introducing new regulations for online sports betting and gambling as a whole. Under the new regulatory regime, the country is expected to grant permanent licenses to the 24 betting companies that currently operate under interim licenses. The following sections cover the most important pieces of legislation governing the online sports betting sector in Greece.

Key Sports Betting Laws

Key Sports Betting LawsThe year 1996 can easily be described as a turning point for the sports betting sector in Greece, as the country’s government granted exclusive rights to the state-owned OPAP, resulting in the sector’s monopolization. OPAP’s exclusive rights were initially intended to expire in 2020, but this period was later extended to 2030.

With the technological advances that marked the turn of the 21st century, online sports betting became increasingly popular among Greek punters. This resulted in the enactment of Law 3037/2002, a rather vague and hotly debated piece of legislation aimed at banning all forms of interactive gambling in the country.

Interestingly, Law 3037/2002 was proposed and enacted after a member of PASOK (the Panhellenic Socialist Movement) was caught participating in illegal land-based gambling activities. Vague as it was, this piece of legislation effectively prohibited all forms of interactive gambling, including casino gaming, sports betting, and even arcade and video games in public places such as the then-widespread internet cafés, whose customers actively participated in online chess and similar forms of entertainment.

The law applied to both locals and foreigners, who were not allowed to bring mobile devices containing any form of video game into the country. Owners of internet cafés who failed to comply with Law 3037 faced hefty fines of up to €75,000, closure, and even jail terms of up to twelve months.

The ban led to a thriving black market, with an increasing number of sports bettors taking their action to foreign-licensed online sportsbooks. Law 3037 was enacted in July 2002 and caused considerable controversy across the European Union. Some reputable offshore betting operators, such as William Hill, Stanleybet, and Sportingbet, were willing to apply for local licenses and did so, only to be rejected by Greek regulators.

Law 3037/2002 was repealed in August 2011, and Law 4002/2011, also known as the 2011 Gambling Act, was introduced. Under the amendments, the Greek government issued temporary licenses to 24 online betting operators, including the UK-based Ladbrokes and William Hill.

A regulatory framework was expected to be introduced the following year, but Greek legislators suddenly changed course and decided to continue supporting the OPAP monopoly. In 2012, lawmakers proposed measures aimed at cementing the state monopoly over sports betting.

In the winter of the same year, operators with interim licenses were asked to begin withdrawing their services from the Greek market. Some chose to leave immediately, while others decided to hold out and wait for favorable changes to the rigid regulatory framework.

Things quickly escalated, and the matter of OPAP’s monopoly was taken to the highest court in Europe. Foreign operators such as William Hill and Stanleybet argued that the monopoly violated the principles of healthy competition and free-market laws in the European Union.

The Greek authorities, in turn, argued that RNG-based games are highly addictive, a somewhat hypocritical statement considering that OPAP is allowed to operate tens of thousands of land-based video lottery terminals in the country. In 2013, the European Court of Justice ruled that OPAP’s monopoly violated EU law and demanded that Greece open its market to foreign competition.

Greek legislators eventually yielded under pressure from the European Union, but the severe economic crisis facing the debt-ridden country at the time also played a crucial role in the amendments that followed.

Greek authorities presented the European Commission with revisions to the country’s betting laws, resulting in a three-month standstill period. Meanwhile, Greek punters continued to use the services of foreign-based betting operators, which caused OPAP’s revenue to decline by 72% in 2013. The state gave up most of its shares in OPAP, which no longer enjoys tax-free status.

Greece is to Revamp Its Rigid Online Betting Legislation

Greece is to Revamp Its Rigid Online Betting LegislationAs of September 2018, Greek punters and foreign sports betting operators finally had a reason to rejoice. The government rolled out a new regulatory framework allowing betting providers that had operated under temporary permits since 2011 to apply for new permanent licenses.

The licensing conditions may not appeal to many foreign operators, however. The new framework requires each sports betting operator to pay a licensing fee of €4 million. Those looking to offer online casino games as well must pay an additional starting fee of €1 million.

The costs do not end there. A valid license expires five years after issuance, and each renewal requires another €4 million per operator. Additionally, each applicant must pay a security deposit of €0.5 million and prove that it holds a valid license to offer online services in other European markets. The government plans to impose a 35% tax on foreign operators’ revenue.

Potential licensees must provide records of their financial performance during the previous three years before submitting their applications. Blacklisted operators are not allowed to submit license applications. Meanwhile, Greek sports bettors must comply with the tiered taxation system outlined above, which applies to their profits.

Greece Sporting Events Coverage and Markets

Sporting Events Coverage and MarketsOnline sports bettors in Greece enjoy an impressive variety of markets. All reputable bookmakers serving customers in the country offer competitive odds and a wide range of features, including in-play betting with odds updated as live events progress, a user-friendly interface, different odds formats, tips, and detailed statistics.

These are mostly British-based betting companies that have received temporary licenses, many of which also cater to the Greek sports betting public by providing punters with support in their native language.

Since Greece is the birthplace of the Olympic Games, it makes sense for Greece-friendly sportsbooks to accept bets on various athletic competitions during the Olympics. Additionally, Greece ranks high in terms of soccer participation and viewership, with many punters backing their favorite teams in online soccer markets.

Soccer fans in the country can choose from a vast range of options, with exceptionally broad coverage of the UEFA Champions League, the English Championship, the Premier League, and the Europa League. Competitions from various domestic leagues, such as La Liga, the Bundesliga, Ligue 1, Primeira Liga, and the Greek Super League, are also available to sports bettors, who can choose from a variety of bet types in live and pre-match markets. These include Over/Under, Match Betting, Both Teams to Score, Half-Time, and Draw No Bet. Accumulators and Asian handicaps are also typically available.

Greeks are also keen on basketball and have access to a huge range of markets covering events from the NBA, EuroLeague, and Greek Basket League. Those interested in basketball betting can choose from bet types such as Match, Total Points, and 2-Way Handicaps, among others.

Volleyball ranks high in popularity among Greek punters, who can support their favorite teams by betting on events from major European, international, and domestic competitions. Volleyball fans can explore numerous bets online, including Match and Set Handicaps, Total Points, and First Set Winner.

Other popular sports readily available at Greek-friendly online sportsbooks include golf, tennis, cricket, cycling, darts, boxing, handball, mixed martial arts, and motor racing. Horse and greyhound race betting is also available to those interested. All major sportsbooks serving punters in the country support mobile betting, with some also offering dedicated mobile applications for iOS and Android devices.

Popular Odds Format in Greece

Popular Odds FormatDecimal odds, commonly referred to as European odds, are preferred by most Greek punters, so it makes sense for Greece-friendly sportsbooks to support them. The biggest advantage is that this odds format is relatively easy to understand. In fact, it takes only seconds for a bettor to calculate the expected return on a wager quoted in decimal odds.

To calculate your return, multiply the decimal number by the amount you stake. For example, if you make a bet at odds of 3.40 and stake €20, you can expect a total return of €68. Bear in mind that your original stake is included in the total return, which means your net profit would be €48.

It is important to distinguish between fractional and decimal odds, as 3.00 is not the same as 3/1. Converting fractional odds into decimal odds is also quite simple. To do so, divide the numerator of the fraction by its denominator and then add 1 to the result. For example, if the odds are quoted as 5/2, the calculation is (5/2) + 1, which shows that the decimal odds for this wager are 3.50.

Calculating the implied probability of winning is also straightforward with decimal odds. These calculations are important for sports bettors because they provide an idea of a wager’s potential value and likelihood of winning.

Imagine you are having difficulty choosing between two wagers, one at odds of 5.30 and the other at odds of 1.52. To calculate the implied probability of each wager, divide 1 by the decimal odds and multiply the result by 100, as follows: (1/5.30) x 100 = 18.86% and (1/1.52) x 100 = 65.78%.

As you can see, the second wager has a much higher probability of winning but would yield a smaller total return of €15.20 from a €10 stake. In contrast, the first wager would return €53, including a net profit of €43, but its likelihood of success is much lower at 18.86%. Always remember: the higher the odds, the larger your potential return, but the lower the likelihood of winning.

Payment Solutions for Sports Bettors from Greece

Payment SolutionsThe country’s rigid online betting regulations make it difficult for sports bettors in Greece to process payments to unauthorized sportsbooks, and they generally face a somewhat limited range of payment options.

It is essential to mention that restrictions apply to outgoing monetary transactions, and Greeks must comply with limits on the amounts they can transfer abroad. Because of this, payments made through bank transfers or debit and credit cards sometimes fail to go through. Thankfully, punters in the country can use other options.

E-wallets such as Skrill and Neteller are among the most popular alternatives because they provide a fast, easy, and secure way to transfer funds to a betting account. To use them, you must register an account and add funds to it.

EcoPayz is also an alternative for those looking to make fast and hassle-free payments to and from their online betting accounts. Another option is the locally available Viva Wallet. Capital controls on offshore payments make it impossible for Greek punters to deposit with Paysafecard, at least at foreign websites that lack domestic licenses, but one solution is to purchase a voucher from a foreign website. Cryptocurrencies such as Ripple, Bitcoin, Litecoin, and Ethereum are also viable options for Greek punters because they are decentralized and therefore not subject to the country’s capital controls.

Bonuses and Rewards for Sports Bettors from Greece

Bonuses and RewardsGreek sports bettors are rewarded for their activity with various promotional incentives. New customers have the chance to redeem welcome bonuses that usually come in the form of first-deposit matches or free bets. These bonuses are normally not directly withdrawable and can be used only for betting. On the plus side, they often come with reasonable wagering requirements, allowing bettors to clear them and withdraw any resulting profits.

Existing customers can participate in numerous promotions available throughout the year. Accumulator cashback and insurance promotions are common offers available to returning bettors. In most cases, bettors must comply with minimum odds requirements for each selection. They may also need to meet conditions concerning the accumulator’s cumulative odds to qualify for cashback. If one accumulator selection loses, the sportsbook may compensate the bettor with a free bet or betting credits.

Other common promotions include best odds guarantees and price boosts. Each promotion has conditions attached to it, and you should read them in full to avoid forfeiting your bonus and any resulting winnings.

Customer Support at Greece Sports Betting Sites

Customer SupportGood customer support is an essential part of an enjoyable online betting experience, which is why we at Sportingpedia handpick only online bookies that value their customers and demonstrate this appreciation by providing adequate support services. Some of the industry’s best operators, such as William Hill and bet365, even serve their customers in Greek, which is great news for punters who cannot speak English or other languages fluently.

Assistance is commonly available through a 24/7 live chat feature that enables you to contact a support agent within seconds. Support staff undergo comprehensive training, allowing them to provide professional and competent responses to a wide range of questions. Make sure you select the appropriate support department when using live chat to avoid wasting time or being transferred from one department to another.

Other commonly available ways to receive information or assistance include email and telephone support. Some operators prefer to respond to telephone inquiries through free callbacks. Last but not least, reputable betting sites feature detailed FAQ sections with extensive information about payments, technical issues, and security. Do not forget to check them, as there is a good chance you will find the answers to your questions there.

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