What foreign bookmakers are and why bettors choose them
By the term foreign bookmakers we mean all those online sports betting operators that have their registered office outside Italy — typically in Great Britain, Malta, Gibraltar or Ireland — but that operate legally in the Italian market after obtaining the licenza ADM (Customs and Monopolies Agency, formerly AAMS).
Over the last ten years the Italian online betting market has gradually opened up to foreign operators: today some of the bookmakers most used by Italians — such as Bet365, William Hill and Bwin — are foreign companies that chose to enter the Italian market by following the local rules.
Bettors' preference for foreign bookmakers is driven by three main reasons:
- More competitive odds — operators competing on international markets have lower margins and often offer slightly higher odds than local operators
- A wider offering — sporting events from all over the world, exotic markets and niche sports not always available on Italian-only operators
- Bonus di benvenuto — international competition often leads to more generous welcome offers
Warning: there are foreign operators that accept players without an ADM license. These should be avoided absolutely: there is no legal protection if winnings go unpaid, and prolonged use can technically have tax implications. Every bookmaker reviewed in this guide holds the licenza ADM attiva.
The best foreign bookmakers with an ADM license in 2025
After months of systematic analysis — testing platforms, verifying licenses, comparing odds across more than 500 markets and simulating withdrawals — we selected the foreign bookmakers that guarantee the best overall experience for the player in 2025.
Our evaluation methodology considers six categories with different weights: license and security (25%), odds quality (25%), bonuses and promotions (20%), platform and UX (15%), payment methods (10%) and customer support (5%).
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Comparison table of foreign bookmakers 2025
The table below compares the main foreign operators available in Italy. The data is updated monthly by our editorial team.
| Bookmaker | Based in | License | Sports Bonus | Odds (football) | Cash Out | App | Voto | Go |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 William Hill
|
🇬🇧 UK | ADM + UKGC | €100 | ★★★★★ | ✅ | ✅ | 9.7/10 | Go → |
 22bet
|
🇨🇾 CYP | ADM + CUR | €100 | ★★★★★ | ✅ | ✅ | 9.5/10 | Go → |
 Eurobet
|
🌍 Int. | ADM | €100 | ★★★★☆ | ✅ | ✅ | 9.4/10 | Go → |
 Bwin
|
🇦🇹 AUT | ADM + MGA | €100 | ★★★★☆ | ✅ | ✅ | 9.3/10 | Go → |
 Betsson
|
🌍 Int. | ADM | €100 | ★★★★☆ | ✅ | ✅ | 9.1/10 | Go → |
 Admiralbet
|
🌍 Int. | ADM | €100 | ★★★★☆ | ✅ | ✅ | 9/10 | Go → |
 888Sport
|
🇬🇮 GIB | ADM + GRA | €100 | ★★★★☆ | ✅ | ✅ | 9.2/10 | Go → |
 Paripesa
|
🌍 Int. | ADM | €100 | ★★★★☆ | ✅ | ✅ | 9/10 | Go → |
 Leovegas
|
🌍 Int. | ADM | €100 | ★★★★☆ | ✅ | ✅ | 8.9/10 | Go → |
 Starvegas
|
🌍 Int. | ADM | €100 | ★★★★☆ | ✅ | ✅ | 9/10 | Go → |
 Betlabel
|
🇨🇾 CYP | ADM + MGA | €100 | ★★★★☆ | ✅ | ✅ | 9/10 | Go → |
 Starcasino
|
🌍 Int. | ADM | €100 | ★★★★☆ | ✅ | ✅ | 8.9/10 | Go → |
⚠️ Bonuses and odds are subject to change. Always check the conditions on the bookmaker official site before registering. 18+ | T&C Apply.
Advantages of foreign bookmakers over Italian operators
Choosing a foreign bookmaker with an ADM license is not just a matter of preference: in many cases it offers concrete, measurable advantages over operators based exclusively in Italy.
-
On average higher odds
Foreign operators competing on markets such as the British or Asian ones have accustomed their customers to reduced margins. On markets like the Premier League or the Champions League, the difference compared with local operators can be 2-5 cents per price. -
A wider offering
Exotic markets, niche sports (cricket, AFL, American baseball), minor European leagues and South American competitions are often absent or limited on pure Italian bookmakers. Foreign operators cover up to 40 different sports. -
More generous welcome bonuses
International competition pushes operators to offer richer welcome packages. It is not rare to find bonuses of up to €200–500 on foreign operators, against the €100–150 average of local operators. -
Tecnologia e UX avanzata
Operators like Bet365 or William Hill invest tens of millions every year in their digital platforms. Mobile apps, live streaming, real-time statistics and advanced cash out functions are often superior. -
Free live streaming
Many foreign bookmakers (especially UK ones) offer free live streaming on thousands of sporting events, a feature not all Italian bookmakers include. -
Advanced trading markets
Bet builder, custom combo bets, statistics markets (corners, cards, shots) and real-time pricing are more developed on international operators.
Disadvantages and risks to consider
Knowing the limits of foreign operators is just as important for making an informed choice. Here are the main critical points.
-
Customer support not always in your language
Some foreign operators offer phone and chat support only in English or with limited hours for Italian. Before registering, check the availability of support in your language. -
Limits on winning accounts
International operators (especially those of UK origin) have a well-known policy of limiting or closing the accounts of players who win systematically. It is not a legal issue, but it is an established practice in the industry. -
More complex bonus rollover
The bonus betting conditions (rollover) on foreign operators can be more elaborate and have multiple requirements. Always read the T&C before accepting a bonus. -
Different payment methods
Not all foreign bookmakers accept the most common payment methods in Italy. Check the availability of PayPal, Italian cards and SEPA transfers before opening an account. -
Risk of bookmakers without ADM
The main risk concerns foreign operators that accept players without an ADM license. In this case there is no Italian legal protection: you win but cannot withdraw? There is nothing you can do. Use ONLY operators with a verifiable ADM license.
Licenses: how to recognise a trustworthy foreign bookmaker
The license is the most important element to verify before registering with any foreign bookmaker. Not all licenses offer the same level of protection for the player.
ADM / AAMS (Italia)
The Customs and Monopolies Agency is the only body that protects the Italian player in case of disputes. Bookmakers with an ADM license are subject to constant controls, must keep player funds separate from company funds and are required to process withdrawals within 5 business days. Check the license number on the site adm.gov.it.
MGA — Malta Gaming Authority
The MGA is one of the most respected licenses in Europe. It requires high capital requirements, regular audits and a dispute resolution system (eCOGRA). Many foreign bookmakers operate in Italy with a dual license: ADM + MGA. On its own it does not protect the Italian player, but it is an excellent sign of reliability.
UKGC — UK Gambling Commission
The UKGC is considered one of the strictest regulators in the world for gambling. It requires very stringent technical, financial and social-responsibility standards. A bookmaker with a UKGC license has passed very rigorous controls. William Hill, Bet365, Betfair and Betway hold a UKGC license in addition to the ADM one.
GRA — Gibraltar Regulatory Authority
Gibraltar is a British jurisdiction with high regulatory standards. Many of the leading European gaming companies, such as Bet365 and 888, have their operational headquarters in Gibraltar. The GRA cooperates with European authorities and imposes requirements similar to the UKGC.
Curacao eGaming
The Curaçao license is the most widespread among online bookmakers, but also the least regulated. The requirements are minimal compared with MGA or UKGC, and player protection is limited. A bookmaker with ONLY a Curaçao license (without ADM) should be avoided by Italian players. Some operators pair it with the ADM as a license for non-European markets.
No license / Not verifiable
Any betting site that does not clearly display the ADM license number, or that does not appear in the public list on ADM.gov.it, should be avoided. There are no legal protections, withdrawals can be refused without reason and deposited funds could be lost.
To verify the ADM license of a bookmaker: go to adm.gov.it → Search among authorised licensees → enter the name of the bookmaker.
Payment methods accepted by foreign bookmakers
Deposit and withdrawal methods vary significantly between foreign operators. Here is a complete overview of what to expect and which operators accept which methods.
SEPA Bank Transfer
Available on all ADM-licensed bookmakers. The safest but the slowest. Ideal for withdrawing large amounts. No additional cost on the main operators.
Credit / Debit Card
The most-used method for deposits. Note: some Italian banks block transactions to gambling operators even with an ADM license. In that case it is better to use an e-wallet such as PayPal.
PayPal
The method preferred for speed and security. Not available on all foreign bookmakers: some removed it after PayPal's 2023 gambling restrictions. Always check current availability.
Skrill
E-wallet very widespread among professional bettors for fast withdrawals. Requires identity verification. Note: Skrill may limit the account if it detects arbitrage activity.
Neteller
An alternative to Skrill for those who prefer to keep gambling funds separate. Accepted by almost all foreign bookmakers with an ADM license. Slightly higher fees than Skrill for withdrawals.
PaySafeCard
Ideal for those who want to control their gambling budget. Available at tobacconists and newsstands. Limit: cannot be used for withdrawals. Useful for initial deposits but you will need another method to cash out winnings.
Reviews bookmaker by bookmaker
Below you will find a concise rating card for each foreign bookmaker in our ranking. For the full review click "Read review".
Bookmaker internazionale con licenza ADM, operativo in Italia.
Bookmaker internazionale con licenza ADM, operativo in Italia.
Bookmaker internazionale con licenza ADM, operativo in Italia.
Bookmaker internazionale con licenza ADM, operativo in Italia.
Bookmaker internazionale con licenza ADM, operativo in Italia.
Bookmaker internazionale con licenza ADM, operativo in Italia.
Bookmaker internazionale con licenza ADM, operativo in Italia.
Bookmaker internazionale con licenza ADM, operativo in Italia.
Bookmaker internazionale con licenza ADM, operativo in Italia.
Bookmaker internazionale con licenza ADM, operativo in Italia.
Bookmaker internazionale con licenza ADM, operativo in Italia.
Bookmaker internazionale con licenza ADM, operativo in Italia.
How to choose the right foreign bookmaker for you
There is no single "best" foreign bookmaker in absolute terms: it depends on your betting habits, the sports you follow and your preference on odds and bonuses. Here is a 5-step decision path.
Check the ADM license
Before any other consideration, check that the bookmaker has an active ADM license on adm.gov.it. This is the non-negotiable minimum requirement for your legal protection in Italy.
Identify your main sports
If you mainly bet on Serie A and the Champions League, almost any foreign bookmaker will suit you. If you look for exotic markets (rugby, cricket, AFL), choose international operators like Bet365 or William Hill that cover more than 30 sports.
Compare odds across at least 3 operators
Use an odds comparison tool or simply open 3 browser tabs. Over the long run, systematically choosing the best odds can increase returns by 5-8% compared with using a single bookmaker.
Read the bonus terms
A €200 bonus with a 20x rollover is less convenient than a €100 bonus with a 5x rollover. Always calculate the amount you will have to bet in order to withdraw the bonus before accepting it.
Test customer support before depositing
Contact the bookmaker's live chat with a simple question before opening the account. Assess response speed, competence and availability in your language. This tells you a lot about how they will treat you in case of real problems.
FAQ — Frequently asked questions about foreign bookmakers
In Italy only bookmakers with an ADM license (formerly AAMS) are legal, regardless of their foreign base. A bookmaker based in Malta, Gibraltar or the United Kingdom that has obtained the ADM license operates fully within the law.
Foreign bookmakers without an ADM license operate in a grey area: there is no criminal offence for the player who uses them, but there is no legal protection in case of problems. Winnings can be blocked with no possible recourse before Italian authorities.
The rule is simple: if it has an ADM license it is legal. If it does not have ADM, you are taking a risk.
Yes, it is absolutely possible to win on foreign bookmakers. Many offer more competitive odds than Italian-only operators, which means that — for the same sports analysis — potential winnings are higher.
However, like any form of betting, the long-term result depends on the quality of analysis, bankroll management and discipline. Bookmakers always have a positive margin on the odds, typically varying from 3% to 8% per event.
An important note: foreign bookmakers (especially UK ones) tend to limit or close the accounts of consistently winning players. This is a known and documented aspect of the industry.
For players, the trustworthy licenses in order of importance are:
- ADM/AAMS (Italia) — the only one that protects the player in Italy. Mandatory to play safely.
- UKGC (UK Gambling Commission) — among the strictest in the world. Extremely high technical and social-responsibility standards.
- MGA (Malta Gaming Authority) — European standard, requires high capital requirements and frequent audits.
- GRA (Gibraltar Regulatory Authority) — reliable, with requirements similar to the UKGC.
The Curaçao license is the least restrictive and on its own does not guarantee adequate protection. It is fine if paired with the ADM, but should be avoided if it is the only one.
The most common withdrawal methods on foreign bookmakers with an ADM license are:
- PayPal — the fastest (within 24 hours), available on William Hill, Bwin, Unibet
- Skrill / Neteller — withdrawal within 24-48 hours, accepted almost everywhere
- Credit/debit card — 2-5 business days, depends on the bank
- SEPA bank transfer — 1-5 giorni lavorativi, nessun costo aggiuntivo
The standard procedure: go to "Withdraw" in your account, select the method, enter the amount and confirm. The first time you may have to verify your ID document (KYC procedure). Do it as soon as you open the account, do not wait until you have winnings to withdraw.
No, if the bookmaker has an ADM license, winnings are tax-exempt for the Italian player. The gambling tax is already included in the odds and is paid by the bookmaker to the ADM. You receive the net amount without having to declare anything on your tax return.
For bookmakers without an ADM license the situation is different: winnings could technically fall under "miscellaneous income" and require a declaration. It is one of the many reasons why we recommend exclusively operators with an ADM license.
Among the foreign bookmakers available in Italy with an ADM license, Bet365 and William Hill are consistently at the top for odds on international football. 22bet is often the most competitive on 1X2 odds for European leagues.
Odds vary constantly — there is no bookmaker that is always the best on every market. The most effective strategy is to keep 2-3 active accounts and choose the best available odds for each specific bet.
If the bookmaker has an ADM license you can file a complaint directly with the ADM, which has mandatory powers of intervention. The bookmaker is required to respond within defined timeframes and the ADM can impose payment or revoke the license.
Steps to follow: 1) contact the bookmaker's support in writing (email, not just chat); 2) if not resolved within 7 days, file a complaint on adm.gov.it; 3) alternatively, contact the ADR (Alternative Dispute Resolution) body indicated in the bookmaker's terms of use.
If the bookmaker has no ADM license, the chances of recovery are very limited. This is the worst case, which is avoided entirely by choosing only operators with an ADM license.
Ready to start? Compare the best foreign bookmakers
Every operator in our ranking has passed our verification on ADM license, odds, bonuses and payment reliability.
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