Germany GGL Federal License
Cost
Application and annual fees in the low six figures + 5.3% turnover tax (slots), exceptionally aggressive tax
Timeline
6-12 months
Capital
Case-by-case
Federal online gambling licence regulated by Gemeinsame Glücksspielbehörde (GGL).
Who it suits
Operators serving German consumers post-July 2021 federal treaty. Required for any Germany-facing iGaming.
Compliance load
Strict deposit limits (€1,000/month default, can be raised on documented affordability), 5-second slot-spin minimum, no live-casino (specific federal-state exceptions), no in-play sports betting in some categories. The most restrictive EU framework.
The acquiring angle
EU licence, broad acquirer underwriting in principle. In practice, narrow because German market has the worst unit economics in EU iGaming (5.3% turnover tax wipes out margin). Many operators have abandoned Germany entirely.
Notes and pitfalls
The €1,000 monthly deposit limit and slot-spin restrictions strangle volume. Operators that can survive the framework are typically already-established brands; new entrants struggle.
Reference information, not legal advice. Figures are typical ranges as of 2026.
GGL questions.
How do acquirers view the GGL licence?
Acquirer acceptance is Narrow. EU licence, broad acquirer underwriting in principle. In practice, narrow because German market has the worst unit economics in EU iGaming (5.3% turnover tax wipes out margin). Many operators have abandoned Germany entirely.
What does the GGL cost and how long does it take?
Cost: Application and annual fees in the low six figures + 5.3% turnover tax (slots), exceptionally aggressive tax. Timeline: 6-12 months. Capital: Case-by-case. These are typical ranges as of 2026; verify with the regulator before budgeting.
Does BZNpay help with GGL applications?
No. We are an introducer to acquirers, not a licensing agent. We can tell you how this licence plays with the acquirer pool and introduce you to the partners whose appetite covers it.