Wagering requirements decide whether a bonus is worth anything. Here's exactly how they work, how to calculate the real cost, and how to spot terms that make a bonus unclearable.
35x
is average
20x
or less is generous
50x+
is hard to clear
18+
play responsibly
Definitions, worked examples and the hidden terms
A wagering requirement is the total amount you must bet before bonus money, and winnings from it, can be withdrawn. It's written as a multiple: 30x, 35x, 40x.
"35x bonus" on a €100 bonus means €3,500 in bets. "35x bonus + deposit" on a €100 deposit and €100 bonus means 35 × €200 = €7,000. Same number, double the requirement. Always check which one applies.
Slots usually count 100%. Table games, live casino and video poker often count 10%, 5% or 0%. If blackjack counts 10%, you'd need €35,000 of blackjack bets to clear a €3,500 requirement.
Betting €3,500 on a 96% RTP slot loses around €140 on average. That's more than the €100 bonus. In other words, an average bonus with 35x wagering on a 96% slot has slightly negative expected value. It's entertainment budget, not free money.
While wagering, bets are usually capped at around €5. Exceeding it, even by accident, can void the bonus and winnings. This is the most common reason players lose bonus wins.
Typically 7 to 30 days. A large bonus with 7 days to clear pushes you to play more than you planned. Prefer longer windows.
PlayOJO pays bonus winnings as cash with no wagering. Several other casinos offer fair terms (20x–35x, bonus only, slots 100%). See our no wagering bonuses page.
Quick formula: required bets = multiple × (bonus, or bonus + deposit). Expected loss ≈ required bets × (1 − RTP).
Top picks
1. PlayOJO
2. Rizk
3. Videoslots
On this page
How to choose an online casino
Wagering requirements explained
RTP and house edge explained
Casino bonus terms explained
Responsible gambling
NC
Navi Casino editorial team
Reviews are written and fact-checked by our editors. Last checked 25 October 2026.
4 questions
What does 40x wagering mean?
You must bet 40 times the bonus (or bonus plus deposit, if stated) before withdrawing. A €50 bonus at 40x is €2,000 in bets.
Does my deposit count towards wagering?
Bets made with your deposit count towards the requirement at most casinos, but check whether the deposit itself is included in the multiple.
Can I withdraw my deposit with an active bonus?
Usually yes, but doing so cancels the bonus and any bonus winnings.
What's a good wagering requirement?
20x to 35x on the bonus only, slots counting 100%, 30 days to clear. Lower is better; zero is best.
Gambling should be entertainment, never a way to make money or win back losses. Set limits before you play, and take a break if it stops being fun. Free, confidential help is available 24/7.
