What is a wagering requirement?
A wagering requirement (also called a playthrough requirement) specifies how many times you must wager your bonus — or your bonus plus deposit — before any winnings can be withdrawn. A 30x wagering requirement on a NZD 100 bonus means you must place NZD 3,000 in bets before cashing out.
Bonus only vs deposit plus bonus
Some casinos apply the wagering requirement to the bonus amount only. Others apply it to the bonus plus your deposit. A 30x requirement on a NZD 100 deposit + NZD 100 bonus means NZD 6,000 in wagers — twice as much. Always check which applies.
Game contribution rates
Not all games contribute equally to wagering. Slots typically contribute 100%. Table games like blackjack and roulette often contribute only 10% or are excluded entirely. Live casino games may contribute 0%. If you prefer table games, a slots-only bonus is effectively worthless to you.
What is a fair wagering requirement?
Industry standard is 20x to 35x on the bonus amount. Requirements above 50x are considered high and make it statistically unlikely you will withdraw any winnings. Requirements below 20x are considered generous. Some casinos now offer no-wagering bonuses — these are the most player-friendly.
Time limits
Wagering requirements must be met within a set period — typically 7 to 30 days. If the clock runs out, the bonus and any associated winnings are forfeited. Factor the time limit into your decision before claiming.