Players signing up to new slot sites in the UK will soon see important changes to how casino bonuses are structured. The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) has confirmed a series of new rules aimed at making promotions easier to understand, fairer for players, and safer overall.
The changes will be introduced in stages, with the most visible updates affecting bonuses and promotions coming into force from 19 January 2026, while additional measures such as limits on wagering requirements will apply from 19 December 2025.
One of the biggest changes for slot players is the ban on so-called “bonus mixing”. Under the new rules, gambling operators will no longer be allowed to require players to take part in one type of gambling activity in order to receive a reward for another. This means promotions that ask players to bet on sports in exchange for free spins, or to play slots to unlock a sports bet, will no longer be permitted.
Cap on wager requirements
Another major update that will affect new slot sites is the introduction of a cap on wagering requirements. From December 2025, wagering requirements on online bonuses will be limited to a maximum of 10 times the bonus amount. This means a £10 bonus cannot require more than £100 in wagering before any winnings can be withdrawn. According to the regulator, this change reduces complexity, improves transparency, and lowers the risk of gambling-related harm, while still allowing operators to protect against fraud and bonus abuse.
Easier to compare bonuses 2026
For players exploring new slot sites in 2026, these reforms should lead to more straightforward bonus offers, lower wagering requirements, and fewer confusing promotions that push play across multiple products. While welcome bonuses and promotions may look slightly different going forward, they are expected to be clearer, fairer, and easier to compare.