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With thousands of active cash game players and over 100 tables across various formats, including low-stakes buy-ins from $0.01, the offshore poker sites offer a solid online poker experience across all states in the US.
Featuring a mix of tournaments, daily freerolls, and bonuses, they cater to all players – from those grinding micro-stakes to high rollers aiming for high-stakes games.
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Popular
- Freerolls
- Satellites
- Rakeback
- Mobile app
- Anonymous tables
- High traffic
List of the Best Offshore Poker Sites
The offshore poker sites we’ve ranked below offer exceptional bonuses, a wide range of tournament formats, and cash games tailored to all skill levels, including high-stakes action and micro-stakes tables, which give them an edge over their competitors.
- CoinPoker – #1 crypto-only US poker site with a 33% weekly rakeback deal
- ACR Poker – Millions paid weekly in the Beast and Sit & Crush
- Stake – Offers a massive $1M Bad Bead Jackpot prize pool
- Black Chip Poker – Fast-paced action featuring Blitz, AoF, and rapid tournaments
- BetOnline – Over $150,000 in monthly rewards across all poker formats
- Bovada – Playing poker generates reward points that can be exchanged for cash
- Ignition – Poker for all budgets, from $0.50 MTTs to $1,000 high-roller Sit & Go’s
- SportsBetting – Play Boost Poker, climb the leaderboard, and win $100 daily
- Ya Poker – Buy shares of top players and share big tournament wins
- Everygame – Hosts events with bubble protection that can refund your buy-in
Top 3 Offshore Poker Sites Reviewed
Players can take advantage of a variety of games and perks at each of the poker sites on our list. We’ve provided more details about each of them below so that you can get an idea of how they reached the top of our rankings.
CoinPoker stands out as one of the few sites where poker games are fully provably fair. In other words, every shuffle is generated by a transparent RNG that players can personally verify after each hand – an anti-rigging feature no mainstream poker room offers.
With fairness locked in, the next highlight is value, as new US players get a 150% welcome bonus up to $2,000, paid out in 10% increments, while 33% rakeback drops every Monday to keep regular players rewarded.
The platform offers a deep player pool across all formats. Cash game fans get nonstop Hold’em, PLO, and 5-Card PLO action at stakes ranging from $0.01/$0.02 to $1,000/$2,000. Meanwhile, tournament players can jump into daily MTTs, freerolls, Centrolls, and more, from $1 Sunday Flash ($60 GTD) to high-rollers like the $5,000 Nemesis ($100k GTD).
Our Verdict
CoinPoker takes the top spot because it offers unmatched transparency, industry-leading 33% rakeback, and a tournament lineup that ranges from $1 MTTs to VIP Sunday NL10k games with 5BB bounties. However, players should be aware that real-money poker requires downloading the CoinPoker software.
What we like:
- Rake-free NL10k Championship with $100k prizes
- 33% rakeback paid automatically each Monday
- Crypto deposits and withdrawals process extremely fast
- Provably fair shuffles are verified after every hand
What we dislike:
- Some tournaments feature very large buy-ins
ACR Poker has been around since 2001 and is one of the biggest sites open to US players. You’ll find a busy tournament schedule here, with major events like the $60 Million GTD WSOP Paradise Super Main Event, where 100 packages worth $30,000 each are up for grabs through satellites starting at just $2.5
Fast options like Lightning PKOs and Jackpot Poker keep things moving, the Beast gives points from cash games each week, and Sit & Crush pays leaderboard prizes just for joining Sit & Gos and On-Demand tournaments.
ACR Poker also helps players improve with guides on Hold’em, Omaha, Stud, and key skills like bankroll management and tournament strategy, offering guides for every game, format, and skill level.
Our Verdict
If you’re seeking big tournaments, fast-paced formats, and steady rewards for consistent play, ACR Poker could be a perfect choice. That said, it may be less ideal for those who prefer a more casual experience or who don’t care about chasing major online events.
What we like:
- More game variety for players bored with Hold’em
- Over $9.2 guaranteed weekly tournament prizes
- Weekly races pay thousands in leaderboard rewards
- Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android apps
What we dislike:
- High-stakes games attract tough regulars
Stake Poker is designed for casual players who want quick, easy access to Texas Hold ’em and Omaha without downloading extra software. Everything runs directly in the browser, and the interface keeps things simple so newer players can focus on the action instead of managing a complex poker client.
Hand-ranking guides and clear rules are built in, making it a smooth learning environment for anyone still getting comfortable with five-card poker decisions. Another advantage is how flexible it is for funding, as you can play using local currency or with a wide range of cryptocurrencies like BTC, ETH, USDT, and DOGE.
The poker room is still expanding, but the promotions already stand out. Stake hosts a $1M Bad Beat Jackpot and a $500,000 All-in or Fold Jackpot, both rewarding players even when the cards don’t go their way.
Our Verdict
Though Stake games aren’t as high-traffic as major poker networks, that often leads to softer tables and a more relaxed atmosphere. Crypto-friendly players who value a relaxed environment and big jackpot prizes will find it a perfect fit.
What we like:
- 1$1M Bad Beat Jackpot available on eligible games
- 10+ cryptocurrencies supported for deposits and play
- Stake VIP Club offers rakeback and reload perks
- Browser-based tables reduce setup and learning effort
What we dislike:
- No 7-Card Stud or 5-Card PLO for mixed-game players
Comparing the Best Offshore Poker Sites
Sites operate with different standards, as factors like licensing, game variety, software quality, withdrawal speed, and player traffic can vary significantly. By comparing options, you can identify platforms that offer lower rake, better bonuses, and more tournament formats, and the table below can help you with that:
| Online Poker Brand | Rake % | Poker Network | Rakeback | Multi Table | Sit and Go | Freerolls |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CoinPoker | 5%-8% | Independent | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| ACR Poker | 5% | Winning Poker Network | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Stake | 5%-10% | Independent | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Black Chip Poker | 1%-5% | Winning Poker Network | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| BetOnline | 10% | Chico Poker | ❌ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Bovada | 5-10% | PaiWangLuo Poker | ❌ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Ignition | 1%-5% | PaiWangLuo Poker | ❌ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| SportsBetting | 5% | Chico Poker Network | ❌ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Ya Poker | 1%-5% | Winning Poker Network | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Everygame | 5-10% | Horizon | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Advantages and Disadvantages of Offshore Poker Rooms
Offshore poker rooms continue to attract US players who want more freedom in where and how they play. As these platforms operate outside traditional state regulations, their features, policies, and overall player experience can differ noticeably from domestic poker sites.
Because of that, it’s important to understand both their strengths and limitations to decide whether they’re the right choice for you.
Advantages
- Global player pools mean tables are busier and action is steadier
- Promotions run higher, with stronger rakeback, reloads, and VIP rewards
- Crypto-friendly banking provides faster deposits and near-instant withdrawals
- Tournament variety is broader, with more formats and buy-in levels
- Many operators accept US players without state-by-state limitations
Disadvantages
- Regulatory protection may be weaker than at US-based poker sites
- Some networks attract tougher international grinders at mid and high stakes
- Fiat withdrawal options are sometimes limited or unavailable entirely
Are Offshore Poker Sites Legal in the US?
Our listed offshore poker rooms are regulated by international gambling authorities, such as Curacao and Anjouan. Since they’re not licensed by the US state or federal laws, they don’t fall under the US regulatory oversight. That allows players in states where local operators are not permitted to offer online poker to play these games.
However, in those states, local banks and payment providers may not process gambling-related transactions due to the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act. For this reason, all the best offshore poker sites support alternative options, like crypto.
You may also be concerned about legal issues, but no player has ever been prosecuted for gambling at offshore sites. Instead, regulators have a history of targeting operators and financial providers.
Is it Safe to Play at Overseas Poker Sites?
Playing at offshore online poker sites can be safe if you choose a reputable provider, but it’s essential to take precautions. Look for sites with secure payment methods, SSL encryption, fair play ensured by RNG, and positive player reviews. Taking these steps helps protect your information and ensures your safety online.
Gavin BeechiGaming Expert
How to Sign Up and Play Poker at an Offshore Site
Opening a new account with a poker site is a pretty easy process. We're going to walk you through the registration process using BetOnline as an example in order to assist you.
Step 1: Go to the BetOnline Website
On the homepage, click the “Join” (Sign Up) button to begin the registration process. You will need to fill in the requested information on the form that will be provided.Step 2: Make Your Initial Deposit & Claim Your Welcoming Bonus
Making your initial deposit requires going to the cashier. There are numerous payment options available. You can enter the promo code to be eligible for a welcome deal after choosing the payment method and amount.Step 3: Play Your Preferred Poker Games
Head over to the BetOnline poker room and start playing your favorite poker games.
Regulated vs. Offshore Poker Sites
Players seeking real-money poker will quickly find that the market offers two very different paths, and the divide already starts with the licensing. Rather than assuming one category is automatically better, it helps to compare how each type of poker room handles key features.
| Regulated Poker Sites | Offshore Poker Sites |
|---|---|
| State regulators enforce strict rules and oversight | Curacao, Anjouan, or similar regulators, each with its own compliance standards |
| Bonus offerings are restricted by local regulations | Higher bonuses are available with fewer limitations |
| Banking relies on traditional US payment methods | Crypto-friendly banking offers faster transactions |
| Player pools are limited to regional traffic only | A global player base creates larger active pools |
| Disputes are resolved through state gaming regulators | Complaints are handled by offshore licensing bodies |
| Winnings are automatically reported to the IRS when withdrawn | It’s the player’s responsibility to report all taxable winnings |
While US-regulated poker platforms are regarded as safer for players, offshore sites often offer larger player pools and more competitive bonuses. In the end, it all comes down to what you value the most.
Types of Poker Games at Offshore Poker Rooms
By offering several poker variations, top operators cater to both beginners and experienced players, as well as low- and high-stakes gamblers. Below, we look at the most popular options, their differences and similarities, and who they are best suited for.
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Texas Hold ‘Em
In the most popular poker game, each player receives two hole cards, while five community cards are placed face up one by one during four rounds of betting. Players try to make the strongest five-card hand by combining any of the cards. Based on their hand and strategy, players can bet (place chips in the pot), raise (increase the bet), or fold (give up).
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Limit Hold’em
Limit Hold’em is a version of Texas Hold’em that will appeal to poker newbies and players seeking steady action. This format features fixed betting amounts with capped raises, so rather than playing aggressively, you’d have to be patient and really focus on your strategy.
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Omaha
Like Texas Hold’em, the game of Omaha is widely popular, but it’s more complex in comparison. Each player starts with four private hole cards and should combine two of them with three community cards to get the best five-card hand. This rule paves the way for more possible combinations, which results in stronger hands and bigger pots.
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Pot-Limit Omaha
The most popular version of Omaha, Pot-Limit Omaha, is ideal for seasoned players who want to experience fast-paced action and take advantage of bigger pots. The pot-limit format allows players to make bets and raise them up to the size of the pot, making PLO suitable for high rollers.
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Seven Card Stud
Unlike other games discussed so far, Seven Card Stud doesn’t include community cards. Instead, each player receives seven cards, some face up, some face down, and tries to make the best possible hand using those cards. There are five betting rounds, throughout which players should try their best to memorize other players’ cards and adjust their strategy.
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5 Card Draw
5 Card Draw is a great choice for beginners who want to experience a simple, fun poker action. In this game, each player receives five hole cards, and no community cards are involved. Instead, participants can trade in some of their cards for cards of other players to hopefully improve their hand. After the draw, players get a chance to bet, raise, or fold one last time before they show their hands.
Poker Tournaments and Cash Games
As a poker enthusiast, you’ll often have to choose between cash games and tournaments: the two most popular poker formats. Understanding the difference between the two can help you pick the format that best suits your bankroll, playing style, and skill level.
Tournaments
Poker tournaments are structured events where players pay a fixed buy-in and compete for their share of the prize pool. They are popular among poker fans because they give them a chance to win a significant payout for a small entry, but you have to be prepared to spend more time playing and handle the pressure.
- Every player gets the same number of chips.
- The chips don’t have real monetary value until the share of the prize is won, when they’re converted into real cash.
- You increase blind and ante bets at regular intervals.
- Unless re-entry is supported, you cannot join again after being eliminated.
- The top players share the prize pool, the size of which is determined by the total value of entries.
- A small number of finishers get the biggest portion of the prize money.
- Tournaments are highly volatile, meaning that you may lose many times before receiving a big payout.
- Adapting to the conditions is critical for staying in the game longer.
- There’s a variety of tournament formats, from Sit & Go’s, which last up to an hour, to Multi-Table events, spread across several days.
Cash Games
Cash games, also known as ring games, are ideal for players looking for more control over their playing time and bankroll. Unlike tournaments, they are available at any time of day, allowing you to join the table or leave it as you please.
- Chips represent real money (for example, one chip is worth $1).
- Ring games have fixed blinds and antes.
- You are not eliminated when you lose your stack, as you can rebuy more chips.
- Stakes determine the minimum and maximum buy-in range.
- There is no prize structure; rather, players are paid out pot by pot.
- Because rebuys are available and blinds don’t increase, cash games are less volatile than tournaments.
- For the optimal strategy, you should base every action on expected value, not short-term outcomes.
- A session can last a couple of hands up to several hours.
- No-Limit Hold’em and Pot-Limit Omaha are the most common formats.
Bonuses and Promotions
International poker rooms offer a range of bonuses and promotions to attract new customers and keep the existing players entertained. In the table below, you can find types of bonus incentives that can boost your bankroll, giving you more chances to win.
| Bonus Type | Bonus Description |
|---|---|
| Welcome Bonus | Additional playing funds for the newly registered players |
| Freerolls | Free entry for poker tournaments with real prizes |
| No Deposit Bonuses | Free cash or chips for new members with no deposit required |
| Match Deposit Bonuses | Your first deposit is matched as bonus money |
| Rakeback | Percentage of your rake money paid out weekly |
| Bad Beat Jackpot | Guarantees a win when your strong hand loses unexpectedly |
| Loyalty Incentives | Bonuses and other perks for playing real money games |
Top Offshore Poker Bonuses for December
Which Payment Methods Do Offshore Poker Sites Accept?
Our recommended offshore online poker sites offer a wide variety of payment options, including some of the most convenient options for US players.
Tax on Offshore Poker Winnings
Even when you’re playing at offshore poker rooms, you have to pay taxes on your winnings. Whether you’re playing recreationally or professionally, the IRS considers all gambling winnings taxable. However, as operators outside the US usually don’t provide a tax form, it’s your responsibility to keep records of your winnings and report your income.
You should include them in your federal tax return, but you may also have to pay state tax, depending on your state of residence. It’s wise to consult a tax professional to learn how to maintain accurate records and avoid legal issues when playing on overseas platforms.
Offshore Poker Site Networks
Offshore poker networks are the go-to hubs for players who can’t access mainstream regulated poker sites. These networks are a melting pot of various sites, each bringing something unique to the table in terms of game options and player vibes.
Let’s kick things off with the PaiWangLuo Poker Network, formerly known as The Bodog Poker Network. It’s one of the big names out there, praised for being super user-friendly – a real plus if you’re just getting your feet wet or you’re a seasoned pro looking for straightforward play.
Anonymous tables are among its standout features, which level the playing field by hiding player identities, making them great for casual and recreational users. The network supports a wide range of formats, including No Limit Hold’em, Omaha, Omaha Hi/Lo, and Zone Poker (a fast-fold variant).
Moving on to the Chico Poker Network, formerly known as the Action Poker Network, that’s been in the industry for two decades. This one’s a hit for its solid software that rarely skips a beat and some really engaging promotions that keep things exciting.
One of its unique perks is the Bad Beat Jackpot, which can award huge payouts when strong hands get cracked. While the network doesn’t support HUDs, it maintains a competitive edge with regular leaderboard contests, bounty events, and satellite qualifiers for major tournaments.
The Horizon Poker Network is the platform on which Everygame Poker operates. While it’s smaller than giants like PWL or Chico, it still offers a respectable lineup of games like Texas Hold’em, Omaha, and Omaha Hi/Lo.
It is recognized for its beginner-friendly environment, making it a good pick for casual players who want to avoid tougher competition. And, with regular freeroll tournaments and low-stakes MTTs, players won’t regret it. Even though traffic isn’t as high, the network’s soft fields and frequent promotions make it worth considering.
Offshore Poker Apps and Mobile Poker
When it comes to mobile poker, the experience differs between US-licensed operators and offshore poker sites. Regulated poker rooms, such as PokerStars and 888poker, feature native mobile apps for both iOS and Android, accessible through the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
In contrast, offshore poker platforms, including our recommended brands, can’t offer their apps through official stores because they operate outside the US jurisdiction. Instead, these operators provide mobile-optimized web platforms. Running smoothly on smartphones and tablets, they deliver a full poker experience without the need for downloads.
If you prefer playing poker on the go, consider these simple tips to make your gameplay smoother and more secure:
- Bookmark the site for instant access
- Use a secure Wi-Fi or mobile connection to keep your account and funds safe
- Allow browser notifications to stay updated on tournaments and bonuses
- Clear your cache to maintain speed and avoid loading glitches
- Keep your browser up to date to enjoy newer poker site features
- Enable biometrics or password managers for smoother logins
Offshore Poker Rooms to Avoid
Offshore poker sites can be tempting due to bigger bonuses and softer games, but the wrong room can mean slow or frozen payouts, bot rings, or KYC that blocks withdrawals. Check the red flags below to quickly spot rooms to avoid and protect your bankroll.
- Lack of Regulatory Oversight – If an online poker room has no recognized license, player protections are minimal. Without clear oversight, payout disputes and fraud claims often go unresolved.
- Weak Site Security – Skip platforms without HTTPS, 2FA, or recent security audits because your login and bankroll are at risk.
- Limited Player Activity – Empty lobbies and uneven traffic mean fewer games and slower tables. Lower-traffic offshore poker websites can also be riskier, since sparse tables make collusion easier to pull off.
- Lack of Transparency – Hidden T&Cs, undisclosed rake, or vague withdrawal limits are deal-breakers. Trusted operators always publish clear policies and fees.
- Poor Customer Service – If support is slow, generic, or closes tickets without fixing issues, steer clear. Choose sites with 24/7 live chat, trackable tickets, and clear resolution timelines.
- Low Player Ratings – When forums and review sites show consistent complaints about confiscations and slow payouts, take it seriously. Prioritize poker rooms with strong, recent, and verifiable reviews.
- Unsolicited Poker Platforms – Cold DMs, Telegram invites, or ‘exclusive app’ links are big red flags. If you didn’t look for the site, don’t make deposits and share your KYC documents.
Responsible Gambling
With instant tables to join and a range of promotions, it’s easy to spend more than you wanted, so setting limits is crucial. Whether setting deposit caps or turning on session limits, using responsible gambling tools can help you stay safe at every step of your gambling journey.
If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, these support organizations can provide necessary assistance:
For help with gambling problems, call 1-800-GAMBLER for help.
Conclusion
With up to a $2,000 bonus for newcomers, a 33% rakeback deal, leaderboards, and other poker-specific promos, CoinPoker stands out as one of the best platforms for online poker enthusiasts. From low-stakes cash games to high-stakes tournaments, this platform caters to players of all budgets and skill levels. Another advantage is its decentralized nature, guaranteeing lightning-fast transactions and complete privacy.
Sign up To Claim 150% Deposit Bonus Up To $2,000
- The main CSOP tournament series guarantees $1,000,000 in prize money
- Low and high-stakes tables are always available, 33% Rakeback
- No KYC process, decentralized blockchain poker
How We Rate Poker Sites
FAQs
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Content suitable for 18+ readers only. Always gamble responsibly. The content found in this article is not to be taken as betting advice. Speculative gambling could lead to a loss of capital. It’s free to use this website, but we might receive a commission from companies featured within it. If you or someone you know have gambling problems, call 1-800-GAMBLER for help.
