Opening an account at a foreign betting site is straightforward, but there are a few Ireland-specific considerations — particularly around identity verification and payment methods — that can trip up first-time users. This guide walks you through the complete process, from choosing a bookmaker to placing your first bet, with practical tips for Irish players in 2026.
Step 1 — Choose the Right Bookmaker
Before registering, confirm that the bookmaker you have chosen accepts Irish players, supports a payment method you can use, and holds a valid licence. For a full comparison, see our guide to choosing a foreign bookmaker.
Step 2 — Create Your Account
The registration process is similar across most bookmakers. You will typically need to provide:
Information required to register
- Full legal name (matching your ID exactly)
- Date of birth (you must be 18+)
- Email address (use a dedicated email for betting accounts)
- Residential address in Ireland
- Phone number
- Username and strong password
- Currency selection — choose EUR where available
Always choose EUR as your account currency if the option is available. This avoids conversion fees and ensures that displayed odds and limits apply without currency adjustments.
Step 3 — Verify Your Identity (KYC)
Know Your Customer (KYC) verification is a legal requirement under anti-money laundering regulations. All licensed bookmakers must verify your identity before processing withdrawals. Completing this step immediately after registration prevents delays when you want to cash out.
Documents typically accepted
Most foreign bookmakers accept the following documents from Irish residents:
| Document Type | Purpose | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Photo ID | Identity verification | Irish passport, driving licence, national ID card |
| Proof of address | Address verification | Utility bill, bank statement (within 3 months) |
| Payment method proof | Source of funds | Card photo (last 4 digits), e-wallet screenshot |
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Visit Betlabel 18+ | Gambling involves risk | Play responsiblyStep 4 — Make Your First Deposit
Navigate to the cashier or banking section and select your deposit method. For Irish players, the most reliable options in 2026 are:
Recommended deposit methods for Irish players
- Revolut — available as Visa/Mastercard; most bookmakers accept it without issues
- Skrill / Neteller — dedicated gambling e-wallets; widely accepted; fast
- Bitcoin / USDT — instant, no bank involvement; requires a crypto wallet
- Bank transfer — slower (1–3 days) but universally available
Enter the amount you wish to deposit. Most foreign bookmakers have minimum deposits of €10–€20. If you intend to claim a welcome bonus, check the minimum qualifying deposit for the offer before proceeding.
Step 5 — Place Your First Bet
Once your deposit is credited, you can browse the sportsbook. Click on an odds price to add a selection to your bet slip, enter your stake, and confirm. Most sites offer single bets, accumulators, and system bets.
Withdrawing Your Winnings
To withdraw, go to the cashier, select "Withdraw", choose your method, and enter the amount. Most sites require that you withdraw via the same method you used to deposit (payment method matching). If your deposit method does not support withdrawals (e.g. a prepaid card), you will need to contact support to arrange a bank transfer.
For detailed guidance on getting money back to an Irish bank, see our guide on how to transfer winnings from a foreign betting site.
Related Guides
- How to verify your identity at an international bookmaker — KYC in detail
- How to transfer winnings to an Irish bank account — withdrawal guide
- How to get better odds using foreign bookmakers — odds shopping strategy
- How to compare odds across multiple bookmakers — tools and method
- Payment methods for Irish players — full guide
- How to choose a foreign bookmaker — selection criteria
- Best foreign betting sites for Irish players — full overview
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does registration take at a foreign betting site?
Registration typically takes 3–5 minutes. You provide your name, date of birth, email, and address. Identity verification (KYC) can take minutes if you submit documents immediately, or up to 24 hours on some sites.
What documents do I need to verify my account?
Most foreign bookmakers require a government-issued photo ID (passport or driving licence) and a proof of address (utility bill or bank statement dated within 3 months). Some sites also request a selfie with your ID.
Can I bet before completing KYC verification?
Many bookmakers allow you to place bets before full verification, but most require KYC before processing a withdrawal. It is best practice to complete verification immediately after registration to avoid delays when withdrawing.
What is the minimum deposit at foreign betting sites?
Minimum deposits vary by method. Card and e-wallet minimums are typically €10–€20. Crypto deposits often have lower thresholds. Check the cashier section of each site for current limits.
How do I withdraw winnings to an Irish bank account?
Bank transfer is the most reliable withdrawal method for Irish players. Some sites also support Revolut withdrawals. Withdrawals to e-wallets (Skrill, Neteller) are typically processed within a few hours. See our guide on transferring winnings to an Irish bank for full details.