Entering the world of online casinos can often feel like visiting a foreign country where everyone speaks a dialect you do not quite understand. As an industry professional who has guided thousands of players through the regulatory shifts of the Greek market up to 2026, I have seen firsthand how confusion over terminology can lead to lost funds and frustrated experiences. Whether you are a complete novice or someone transitioning from land based gaming, understanding the specific vocabulary of the Hellenic Gaming Commission (EEEP) is your first line of defense. While you might encounter international terminology on platforms like neon 54 in other jurisdictions, the Greek regulated market has a unique set of definitions that carry legal weight. In this comprehensive glossary, I will decode the essential terms, separating the marketing fluff from the mathematical realities, ensuring you navigate the digital lobbies with the confidence of a veteran.
Regulatory and Legal Terms
These are the acronyms and words that define the legality of your gameplay. In 2026, ignoring these can lead to account closures or tax issues.
EEEP (HGC)
The Hellenic Gaming Commission (Epitropi Epoptias kai Elegchou Paignion). This is the supreme authority overseeing all gambling in Greece. They issue licenses, audit RNG engines, and handle player complaints. If a casino does not have the EEEP logo in the footer, it is illegal.
AFM (Tax Identification Number)
Your Arithmos Forologikou Mitroou. In Greece, you cannot register at a legal online casino without providing a valid AFM. It is used to verify your age (21+) and to attribute the automatic tax on your winnings to your fiscal profile.
KYC (Know Your Customer)
Also known as “Tautopoihsh” in Greek. This is the mandatory process of verifying your identity. It involves submitting your ID (Taftotita), Proof of Address, and Proof of Payment Method. In 2026, this is often automated via Gov.gr, but manual uploads are still common.
OASIS
The National Self Exclusion Register. A database maintained by the EEEP. If you feel you are losing control, you can add your name to OASIS. Once registered, you are legally blocked from entering any casino (online or physical) in Greece for a specific period.
Blacklist
A dynamic list maintained by the EEEP containing thousands of illegal, unlicensed gambling domains. Greek Internet Service Providers (ISPs) are required to block access to these sites to protect players.
Game Mechanics and Mathematics
Understanding how the games work is crucial for managing your bankroll. These terms explain why you win and why you lose.
RNG (Random Number Generator)
The algorithm that determines the outcome of every spin or card deal. In licensed Greek casinos, the RNG is audited by external labs (like eCOGRA or iTechLabs) to ensure it is truly random and not rigged by the operator.
RTP (Return to Player)
Often called “Epistrofi” in Greek. This is a percentage that indicates how much money a game pays back to players over millions of spins. For example, an RTP of 96% means that for every 100 euros wagered, the machine returns 96 euros on average. The remaining 4% is the casino’s profit.
Volatility (Variance)
This describes the risk level of a game.
- High Volatility: Pays out rarely, but the wins are huge (e.g., 5000x your bet).
- Low Volatility: Pays out frequently, but the wins are small (e.g., 2x or 5x your bet).
Beginners often prefer Low Volatility to make their budget last longer.
House Edge (Ganiota)
The mathematical advantage the casino holds over the player. In European Roulette, the house edge is 2.7%. This ensures that over the long run, the casino always makes a profit.
Bonus and Wagering Terminology
This is where most disputes arise. Bonuses are not free money; they are contracts with specific conditions.
Wagering Requirement (Tziros)
Also known as “Playthrough” or “Rollover.” This is the number of times you must bet the bonus money before you can withdraw it.
- Example: You get a 10 euro bonus with a 30x wagering requirement. You must place bets totaling 300 euros (10 x 30) before the 10 euros becomes real cash.
Sticky vs Non Sticky Bonus
- Non Sticky (Parachute): Your real money and bonus money are separate. You play with real money first. If you win, you can cancel the bonus and withdraw immediately.
- Sticky: Your real money and bonus are locked together. You cannot withdraw anything until the wagering requirement is met.
Free Spins (Dorean Peristrofes)
Rounds on a slot machine that do not cost you money. However, the winnings from these spins are usually treated as “Bonus Money” and are subject to wagering requirements unless stated as “Cash Spins” or “Wager Free.”
Max Bet Rule
When playing with an active bonus, there is a maximum amount you can bet per spin (often capped at 5 euros or 2 euros depending on the specific offer in 2026). Exceeding this limit can void your bonus and winnings.
Gameplay and Slot Features
When you open a slot (Froutaki), you will see these terms on the interface.
Scatter Symbol
A special symbol that does not need to be on a payline to trigger a win. Usually, landing 3 or more Scatters triggers the Bonus Round or Free Spins feature.
Wild Symbol
A symbol that acts as a substitute for other symbols to complete a winning line. Think of it like the Joker in a deck of cards.
- Sticky Wild: A Wild that stays in place for the next spin.
- Expanding Wild: A Wild that grows to cover the entire reel.
Payline (Grammi Pliromis)
The specific pattern on the reels where symbols must land to generate a win. Classic slots have 5 paylines; modern “Megaways” slots can have 117,649 ways to win.
Multiplier (Pollaplasiasthis)
A feature that multiplies your win by a specific number (e.g., x2, x10, x100). These are often found in Free Spin rounds and are the key to big wins.
Financial and Tax Terms
Since 2026 regulations are strict on money movement, you must know these banking terms.
Tax on Winnings (Foros Kerdon)
The amount the state takes from your profit.
- Session: The period from login to logout (or 24 hours).
- Tax Free: Net winnings up to 100 euros.
- 15% Tax: On net winnings between 100.01 and 500 euros.
- 20% Tax: On net winnings over 500 euros.
Withdrawal (Analipsi)
The process of moving money from your casino account to your bank. In Greece, this must be done to a verified IBAN or card in your name.
Deposit Limit
A responsible gaming tool. You set a cap on how much you can deposit per day, week, or month. In 2026, setting this is mandatory during registration.
Closed Loop Policy
A security rule that requires you to withdraw funds to the same method used to deposit. If you deposited via Visa, you must withdraw to that same Visa.
Quick Reference Table: Greek to English
| Greek Term | English Equivalent | Meaning |
| Froutakia | Slots | The slot machines. |
| Ganiota | House Edge | The casino’s profit margin. |
| Tziros | Turnover / Wagering | Total amount of bets placed. |
| Tautopoihsh | Verification / KYC | Sending ID documents. |
| Analipsi | Withdrawal | Cash out. |
| Katathesi | Deposit | Add funds. |
| Fragih | Block / Ban | Account suspension. |
| Dorean | Free | Usually refers to Free Spins. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What does KYC mean in a Greek casino?
KYC stands for Know Your Customer. In Greece, it is the legal process where you prove your identity to the operator. You must provide a valid ID (passport or police ID) and a recent utility bill to prove your address. Without completing KYC, you cannot withdraw any winnings.
What is the difference between RTP and Volatility?
RTP (Return to Player) is the theoretical percentage of money a game returns over time (e.g., 96%). Volatility is the risk factor that determines how that money is returned. High volatility means rare but big wins; low volatility means frequent but small wins.
What is a Wagering Requirement?
It is a condition attached to bonuses. It dictates how many times you must bet the bonus amount before it converts into real, withdrawable cash. For example, a 10 euro bonus with a 30x requirement needs 300 euros in total bets.
What does EEEP stand for?
EEEP is the Greek abbreviation for the Hellenic Gaming Commission. It is the government body that regulates, licenses, and audits all gambling activities in Greece to ensure fairness and player protection.
What is the “Max Bet” rule when using a bonus?
When you accept a bonus, the casino imposes a limit on the maximum bet you can place per spin (often 2 to 5 euros). If you bet more than this limit while the bonus is active, the casino has the right to confiscate your winnings.
What is a Scatter symbol?
A Scatter is a special symbol in slot games. Unlike regular symbols that must line up on a payline, Scatters can appear anywhere on the screen. Usually, landing three Scatters triggers the game’s bonus round or free spins.
What does “Tziros” mean?
Tziros is the Greek word for “Turnover.” It refers to the total amount of money you have bet in a session, regardless of whether you won or lost. It is often used to calculate loyalty points or wagering progress.
What is the OASIS register?
OASIS is the national self exclusion database in Greece. If you feel you have a gambling problem, you can register here to ban yourself from all legal gambling sites and physical casinos for a chosen period (e.g., 1 year or 5 years).
What is a Progressive Jackpot?
This is a jackpot that grows every time a player makes a bet on that specific game across the entire network. A small percentage of each bet fuels the pot, which can reach millions of euros before being won by a lucky player.
Why is my withdrawal “Pending”?
A pending withdrawal means the casino’s finance team is reviewing your request. They check if you have met all wagering requirements and if your account is fully verified. In 2026, this process is usually fast, but can take up to 24 hours.
Conclusion
Understanding the terminology of the Greek iGaming market is the most profitable skill you can acquire. It transforms the experience from a game of chance into a calculated activity where you understand the risks and the rules. By knowing the difference between a “Sticky” and “Non Sticky” bonus, you avoid locking your funds. By understanding “RTP” and “Volatility,” you choose games that fit your budget and playstyle. And most importantly, by respecting terms like “AFM” and “KYC,” you ensure your account remains compliant with EEEP regulations, guaranteeing that your winnings are paid out without issue.
As we move through 2026, the language of casinos continues to evolve with new technologies and regulations. However, the core terms outlined in this glossary remain the foundation of safe play. Keep this guide handy, refer to it when you encounter a confusing term in the terms and conditions, and remember that an educated player is always a more successful player. Play smart, play responsibly, and let your new vocabulary be your guide to a better gaming experience.
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