How first-deposit casino bonuses work
A first-deposit bonus is normally available to new customers making their first qualifying real-money deposit. It may match a percentage of the deposit, provide free spins or combine both.
A promotion described as “100% up to €200”, for example, usually matches the deposit amount until the stated maximum is reached. It does not mean that the combined deposit and bonus balance can immediately be withdrawn. Wagering and other conditions commonly apply first.
Claiming the offer
The usual process is to create an account, complete any required verification, opt into the promotion and make at least the qualifying minimum deposit. Some offers also require a bonus code or a particular registration link.
Check these instructions before depositing. A deposit made with an excluded payment method, below the minimum amount or before entering the required code may not qualify. Do not assume the casino will add the bonus automatically.
Our focus is the first deposit
Some casinos divide their welcome offer across a series of deposits. The first instalment may be followed by separate bonuses for a second, third or later deposit, each with its own percentage, limit and conditions.
Reviewed Casinos focuses the comparisons on this page on the offer applying to the first qualifying deposit. Subsequent deposit bonuses may be mentioned where they help explain the overall welcome package, but they are not the basis of this archive.
Wagering and eligible games
Wagering requirements state how much play is required before a bonus balance or associated winnings can become withdrawable. Check whether the multiplier applies only to the bonus or to the deposit and bonus combined, as this can make a substantial difference to the total amount that must be wagered.
Games may contribute at different rates. Slots commonly contribute more than table games, video poker or live casino games, while some titles may be excluded entirely. Free-spin winnings can also have separate wagering conditions.
Expiry, maximum bets and withdrawals
A bonus may need to be claimed, used and wagered within a specified period. Maximum-bet rules can apply while wagering is active, and exceeding the stated limit may result in the bonus or related winnings being removed.
Also check for maximum withdrawals, restricted cash-out methods and whether depositing or withdrawing cancels an active bonus. Complete verification may be required before any withdrawal is processed.
Compare the casino as well as the bonus
A larger percentage or maximum bonus is not automatically the better offer. Consider the wagering basis, game contribution, time limit and withdrawal rules together with the amount being advertised.
The bonus should not be considered separately from the casino itself. Licensing, payment reliability, withdrawal procedures, country restrictions and available safer-gambling controls remain important. Only deposit an amount you had already decided you could afford to lose.
