Best Betting Sites in Switzerland

Sports Betting Regulation in Switzerland

In Switzerland, the gambling market is divided into two. On the one hand, we have land-based and online casinos, which involve playing casino games. And on the other hand, we have skill-based games, lotteries, and sports betting. The Swiss Federal Gaming Board is responsible for casinos and issuing licenses to operators. Meanwhile, the Cantons (state) supervise and license sports betting, lotteries, and skill games.

Although the legal status of online betting remains intact, there are certain divisions and restrictions to sports betting services in the country. To better understand the gambling industry, it helps to note these divisions elaborated by the Federal Act on Gambling, which distinguishes large and small-scale gaming.

Large Scale Gaming

• This involves sports betting, skill games, and lotteries operating online, across various cantons, or through an automated process.

• Operators who want to provide large-scale gaming in Switzerland must apply for a Gespa license, which is the inter-cantonal licensing, enforcement, and supervisory authority when it comes to large-scale gaming.

Small Scale Gaming

• This involves skill gaming, lotteries, and sports betting that doesn't cut across multiple cantons or isn't operated by an automated process or online. These include small lotteries, betting shops, small-scale poker events, etc.

• Various cantonal licensing and supervisory bodies are responsible for the control and monitoring of operations, although the country's federal law obliges these authorities to submit their decisions to Gespa for further review.

The Federal Act on Gambling

The Loi Federale Sur Les Jeux D'Argent, or Federal Act on Gambling or Gambling Act, is the primary legislation that governs gambling activities in the country. It was put into effect in 2019 to replace past regulations as the government looked to harmonise and modernise the existing gambling laws, open up the market for online casino gaming, and increase player protection against gambling harms.

Through this Gambling Act, the country introduced a state monopoly on online and in-person betting, with Lotterie Romande and Swisslos having exclusive control. Additionally, the Act introduced restrictions on single-event betting for most sports, with exceptions on certain events licensed under certain canton jurisdictions.

Money Gaming Act

With the introduction of the Federal Act on Gambling, the Swiss Government also introduced the Money Gaming Act. This Act serves as the framework law that regulates and controls the implementation, use, and admissibility of gaming revenues. It covers land-based money gaming, skill-rated money gaming, and online money gaming.

This Act is also subject to statutory exceptions, including money games limited to enclosed circles, short-term money games for marketing and advertising purposes, and financial market-based activities. The Federal Casino and Federal Gaming Ordinance further specifies this Act.

Gespa and the Betting Board

Gespa, or the Swiss Gambling Supervisory Authority, which was established in 2006, is the betting board responsible for licensing, regulating, and supervising legal gambling activities in Switzerland. The board is independent of commercial gambling interests. Additionally, it is overseen by a Swiss Cantonal Executives-appointed supervisory board.

The creation of Gespa comes with many roles and responsibilities. As a result, the authority is in charge of various aspects of the Swiss gambling market and plays some key roles, including:

• Overseeing large-scale gambling
• Ensuring responsible and safe gambling
• Grants licenses to qualified operators
• Investigate and address violations to help root out unlicensed betting sites

The role of Gespa is to ensure that operators who want to provide gambling services in the country adhere to strict regulations and meet the set high standards. So, online bookmakers that want to provide betting opportunities will have to comply with certain regulations set by the board. Gespa ensures a smooth gambling industry.

Fees and Charges

When it comes to licensing fees and charges for Swiss bookmakers, Gespa doesn't charge application or licensing fees. These charges are down to various cantons. So, bookmakers that want to provide Swiss bettors with gambling opportunities must consider the various fees set by individual cantons based on the license type.

Aside from licensing and application fees, operators must also keep in mind the compliance costs that come with maintaining a license throughout the various cantons. These charges usually include compliance audits, legal advice, and other implementation of necessary measures. You should note that these fees can change without prior notice. So, it helps to stay updated with any changes made,

Key Facts & Stats About Betting in Switzerland

• Annual Growth Rate: According to a report from Statista, the Switzerland betting market is projected to reach about US$520 million in 2024 with a projected annual growth of 4.91% from 2024 to 2028.

• Industry Growth: According to Statista, the industry has seen a forecasted growth rate of about 7.2% between 2022 and 2024 and is speculated to hit 8.7% by 2028.

• Betting Frequency: Based on a report from TGM research, about 65% to 75% of the betting population in Switzerland are casual bettors.

• Monthly Spending: There is no concrete data and information on the average monthly bet spend in Switzerland. But it is specified that bettors spend between €100 and €200 monthly on average.

• Purpose of Betting: Following a TGM research and report, most of the betting population bet for entertainment purposes. About 40% bet for profit, while others bet for other reasons, including it being a hobby and wanting to try something new.

• Popular Sports: Football is the most popular sport bettors bet on in Switzerland. It is estimated to take about 75% of the market share. Other popular sports include Winter Sports and Tennis.

Popular Payment Methods for Swiss Betting Sites

Once you meet the legal gambling age requirement, you can go online to place sports bets at a top-notch Swiss betting site. All you need to do is take the time to find a suitable option to join and create an account. Then, you can deposit real money to get started with your betting journey. But before you can do that, you need to find a payment method to use. To help you with this, we've highlighted a few popular payment methods for Swiss betting sites below.

Cryptocurrencies

If you want to play at Switzerland betting sites, one of the most popular options you can use to deposit and withdraw is crypto. There are different cryptocurrencies players can use to complete transactions. At some of these betting sites, you can pick your preferred crypto option and start your journey. Below are some of the most popular cryptocurrency payment options you can consider in Switzerland.

• Bitcoin: Undoubtedly, Bitcoin is the most popular crypto option worldwide. The movement started with the introduction of Bitcoin. So, if you're looking to explore online betting with crypto, you can always consider Bitcoin as your preferred option.

• Altcoins: Outside of Bitcoin, there are other alternatives to consider if you want to stay within the realm of cryptocurrencies. There are many popular alternative coins to check out. We have Ethereum, Litecoin, Dogecoin, Solana, etc.

• Stable Coins: If you don't want to go through the stress that comes with investing in the volatile crypto market, where the value of coins can grow exponentially and drop drastically, you can consider stablecoins. Some good examples are USDT, USDC, FDUSD, etc.

• Exchanges: Some betting sites also let you make payments directly from your account at an exchange. This option lets you complete transactions with any crypto token. Some good examples you can check out include Binance Pay, Coinbase, etc.

Credit or Debit Card Options

You can also try your luck with your bank card. Many betting sites let players fund their accounts with cards connected to their bank accounts. That way, you don't need to use third-party applications and can rest assured that your transactions are safe. There are different debit and credit card options to consider. We've highlighted a few of these methods below.

• Mastercard: This option is one of the most popular you can explore. Many banks issue Mastercard debit/credit cards. Therefore, it is a popular option for many betting sites. If you have this card, you shouldn't have any issue finding a betting site that accepts Mastercard.

• Visa: This option is also similar to Mastercard. It is a popular credit/debit card banking option you can use at online betting sites. All you need to do is find a suitable betting platform that accepts the payment option, and you're good to go.

• PostFinance Card: This option is a popular Swiss-based debit card option issued by the national postal service PostFinance. You can use the payment method at some betting sites to fund your account and start betting or trying your luck on online poker or online bingo games.

• American Express: Amex is a popular credit card option in Switzerland, and many online betting sites accept it as a payment option. Therefore, you should be able to find a suitable platform to join and use the option to complete transactions.

E-Wallet Services

Using e-wallet services is another way to enjoy your online betting journey in Switzerland. Many top betting platforms accept different e-wallet payment options. So, you simply need to pick a good option and start using it to complete transactions. The good thing is that some of these payment methods have exciting features that can give you the chance to win more money.

• Skrill: This e-wallet payment method is among the most popular options you can use on most betting sites in the country. When you use Skrill, unfortunately, certain casinos may prevent you from receiving bonuses. So, read the casino's rules before making any deposits.

• ecoPayz: You can also try your luck with the ecoPayz payment method. It is an incredible betting option that allows you to deposit and withdraw money at online betting platforms in Switzerland without stress. Once you create an account, you can start using it to transact.

• PayPal: This payment method is popular in Europe. Many betting sites feature it as part of their payment options. So, you can always consider it for your next betting adventure. All you need is to create an account and fund your wallet to get started.

• Neteller: Take advantage of Neteller and complete transactions without hassle when you join this top betting site in Switzerland. All you need to do is understand how this payment method works and start using it to deposit and withdraw money at your preferred Swiss betting platform.

E-Vouchers and Gift Cards

Other options you can consider are e-vouchers and gift cards. These options let you complete transactions without stress and make fixed deposits. The amount on the e-voucher or gift card is what you can deposit. So, if you're a player looking to control your betting spend, you might want to consider these payment options. Below are some popular e-vouchers and gift cards you can consider.

• CASHlib: This payment method is popular among betting platforms. If you're joining an international betting site, you can always consider this e-voucher option. Purchase the card from a recognised vendor and use it to complete transactions.

• Paysafecard: You can also use Paysafecard to deposit at many betting sites, especially in Europe. This payment option lets you fund your account with ease. All you need to do is find a suitable vendor, and you can start using Paysafecard to complete transactions.

• Apple Gift Card: You can find verified vendors or stores that sell Apple gift cards and purchase them. Then, you need to find a suitable betting site that accepts gift cards. You can then choose the Apple gift card option to complete the transactions.

• Google Gift Card: Just like Apple gift cards, you can also use Google gift cards to make payments at some top-notch betting platforms. The process is similar and once you have the code, you can use it to fund your betting account.

Most Popular Sports to Bet on in Switzerland

Football (Soccer): The most popular sport you can bet on in the country is Football. It has a large following, and the Swiss Super League is one of the most popular professional football leagues in Europe. This sport is estimated to take about 70% of the betting market share in Switzerland, with most Swiss punters focusing mainly on popular European leagues and top competitions.

Winter Sports: The Swiss are big supporters of Winter Sports. They follow different events and have a strong team representing the country. Many punters in the country bet on these sports as they are a big part of the country's heritage, and there are many stars waving the Swiss flag.

Tennis: Tennis is also gaining popularity among bettors in the country. Many people are switching focus to ATP and WTP events happening throughout the year. Roger Federer and other top tennis players are among those who have helped push the sport among locals. So, the support for local stars has made Tennis a popular sport to bet on.

With the betting scene in Switzerland packed with many betting options, players might want to take the time to find a suitable site that can give them a proper betting experience. Doing this, especially as a newbie, can be tedious. That's why we've taken the time to scour the internet on your behave to bring you some top-notch betting sites in the country. You can pick based on your preference and the betting features that offer. Some of these sites offer live streaming services, top-notch customer support teams, and other incredible features that will help make your betting experience smoother. Check the table above and pick one of the sites we've highlighted for your next betting journey. Create an account, deposit money, claim the welcome bonus offer, and start betting for real money.

Conclusion

Sports betting in Switzerland is legal, and players can enjoy the excitement that comes with betting online. Although there are certain restrictions that come with betting in Switzerland, the benefits make it worthwhile. You can always explore the various betting options available to ensure you'll pick the right betting platform for your journey. All you need to do is subscribe to one of the best internet service providers and look for a suitable site to join. You can check out our trusted betting sites and pick the one that fits your preference. We've already done the heavy lifting, you just have to compare various sites and pick the one you feel is more suited for your betting preferences. Then you can get started with your online betting journey without stress.