If you're reading this, you've already taken the hardest step: recognising that you need help. Self-exclusion is not a sign of weakness — it's one of the smartest decisions you can make to protect yourself.
What is self-exclusion?
Self-exclusion is a free, legally backed mechanism that allows you to voluntarily block yourself from all licensed gambling platforms in your country. Once activated, operators are required by law to reject your bets, close your active accounts, and remove you from promotional communications.
Think of it as putting a lock between you and gambling — and handing the key to a third party. You don't need to explain your reasons to anyone. You don't need anyone's permission. It's your right.
Why is it so important?
- It removes temptation at your most vulnerable moments. When the urge strikes, you simply cannot log in — even if you want to.
- It works even when your willpower fails. That's precisely the point.
- It blocks ALL licensed platforms in your country at once — you don't have to do it one by one.
- Operators are legally obligated to refuse you. It's not a promise — it's the law.
- It's free, confidential, and voluntary. Nobody will find out unless you choose to tell them.
- It's reversible (after a waiting period), so you're not making a lifelong decision — you're simply giving yourself time to recover.
Before you begin: get prepared
Before starting the self-exclusion process, we recommend having the following ready. Having everything to hand will make the process quick and uninterrupted:
- A valid form of ID — passport, driving licence, or national identity card (you'll need the number and, in some cases, a photo or scan).
- Your current full address (including postcode/zip code).
- The email address you used to register on gambling platforms (if you remember it).
- A mobile phone for SMS or call verification.
- 10 to 20 minutes of uninterrupted time. Don't rush this.
Important: if you have an outstanding balance on any platform, withdraw it BEFORE self-excluding. Once exclusion is active, you may lose access to funds that haven't been withdrawn. This is not an excuse to gamble — it's a practical matter.
Step 1 — Identify your country and system
Each country has its own self-exclusion system. Here are the main ones:
🇪🇸 Spain — RGIAJ (Registro General de Interdicciones de Acceso al Juego)
The RGIAJ is Spain's official self-exclusion register, managed by the Directorate General for the Regulation of Gambling (DGOJ). A single registration blocks you from ALL online operators licensed in Spain.
- Scope: All licensed online gambling in Spain (casinos, sports betting, poker, bingo).
- Duration: Indefinite by default. You can request removal after a minimum of 6 months, but the process requires an active application and an additional cooling-off period.
- Cost: Completely free.
- How to apply: Online through the Ministry of Consumer Affairs' electronic portal, or in person at their offices.
See our RGIAJ step-by-step guide for detailed instructions with screenshots.
🇩🇪 Germany — OASIS (Online)
OASIS is Germany's centralised online self-exclusion system, managed by the gambling regulatory authority (GGL). It blocks your access to all online gambling operators licensed in Germany.
- Scope: All licensed online gambling in Germany.
- Duration: Minimum 3 months, maximum indefinite. You choose.
- Cost: Free.
- How to apply: Online at the OASIS website (oasis.mgba.de), by phone, or by post.
Read our OASIS step-by-step guide for full details.
🇬🇧 United Kingdom — GamStop
GamStop is the UK's free national self-exclusion scheme. A single registration blocks your access to all online operators regulated by the UKGC (Gambling Commission).
- Scope: All online gambling licensed by the UKGC.
- Duration: 6 months, 1 year, or 5 years. You choose when you register.
- Cost: Free.
- How to apply: Online at gamstop.co.uk.
Follow our GamStop step-by-step guide to complete your registration.
Step 2 — Block the secondary channels too
Official self-exclusion blocks licensed operators, but there's more you can do to protect yourself:
- Block promotional emails from casinos and bookmakers. Emails are one of the biggest relapse triggers. We have specific guides for Gmail, Hotmail, and Outlook.
- Delete betting and casino apps from your phone. Logging out isn't enough — uninstall them completely.
- Ask your bank to block transactions to gambling operators. Many banks now offer this option in their app.
- Install a website blocker such as BetBlocker (free) or Gamban on your devices.
- Talk to someone you trust and tell them what you've done. Having an ally multiplies the effectiveness of all these measures.
Step 3 — Prepare for what comes next
Activating self-exclusion is a huge step, but it's only the beginning. In the days and weeks that follow, you may feel relief, but also frustration, boredom, or even the urge to find a loophole. This is completely normal.
- Have a plan for moments of impulse. What will you do when the urge hits? Write it down now, while you're calm.
- Find activities to fill the void. Gambling took up time and generated dopamine — you need to replace it with something positive.
- Consider speaking to a professional. Self-exclusion addresses access, but a therapist can address the underlying causes.
- Join a support group. You're not alone in this. There are communities (online and in person) of people in your same situation.
- Be patient with yourself. Recovery is not linear. A bad day doesn't erase all your progress.
If you are in crisis or feel you may harm yourself, please reach out now. In the UK, call the Samaritans on 116 123 (free, 24/7). In the US, call the National Problem Gambling Helpline on 1-800-522-4700. Someone is waiting to help you, around the clock.
Frequently asked questions
Does self-exclusion appear on any public record?
No. Self-exclusion is confidential. Only gambling operators have access to the database to verify whether a user is excluded. It does not appear on credit reports, criminal records, or any register accessible by employers or third parties.
Can I self-exclude if I have gambling debts?
Yes, absolutely. In fact, it's highly recommended. Self-exclusion prevents debts from growing further. Existing debts are a separate matter best handled with financial advice or, in serious cases, through debt relief programmes.
Can I revoke self-exclusion if I change my mind?
It depends on the system. Generally, there is a minimum exclusion period (between 3 and 6 months) during which you cannot revoke it. After that period, you can request removal, but the process includes an additional cooling-off period (usually 7 working days) to ensure the decision is considered, not impulsive.
Have you completed self-exclusion? Congratulations. That step takes more courage than most people realise. Now take a breath, and remember: you don't have to solve everything today. Just today. Tomorrow is another step.