Bank transfers are one of the most traditional ways to move money online, and many online casinos accept them for deposits. But unlike instant methods like cards or e-wallets, bank transfers can take significantly longer—anywhere from a few hours to several business days. If you're used to instant deposits, waiting days to see your funds arrive can be frustrating. But bank transfers also offer advantages, especially for larger amounts or players who prefer direct account-to-account transactions. This guide explains exactly how long bank transfer deposits take, why they're slower, and when they make sense to use. GameGuard helps you understand your payment options clearly, without pressure or hype.
What Are Bank Transfer Deposits?
A bank transfer deposit (also called a wire transfer or bank wire) moves money directly from your bank account to the casino's bank account. Unlike cards or e-wallets that act as intermediaries, the money moves between banks through established banking networks. There are two main types:
Standard Bank Transfer (Wire Transfer)
You initiate the transfer through your bank's online banking portal or in-branch. You provide the casino's bank details (account number, sort code or routing number, IBAN, SWIFT/BIC code), and your bank processes the transaction through the banking network.
Processing time: 1-5 business days, depending on the banks involved and whether it's domestic or international.
Instant Bank Transfer (Covered in a separate guide)
Services like Trustly, Pay N Play, and iDEAL connect your bank account to the casino instantly using open banking technology. These process in seconds to minutes, not days. This guide focuses on standard bank transfers. For instant methods, see our guide on instant banking methods.
How Long Do Bank Transfers Take?
Typical Timelines
| Transfer Type | Processing Time | |---------------|-----------------| |
Domestic bank transfer (same country) | 1-3 business days | |
International bank transfer | 3-5 business days | |
Same-bank transfer | 1-2 business days | |
Instant bank transfer (Trustly, etc.) | Instant to 5 minutes | These are typical ranges. Actual times depend on: - The banks involved - Whether it's domestic or international - Banking hours and business days (weekends and holidays add delays) - Anti-fraud verification checks - Currency conversion requirements
Why Are Bank Transfers So Slow?
Bank transfers move through traditional banking networks (SWIFT, SEPA, BACS, etc.), which involve multiple steps: 1. You initiate the transfer from your bank 2. Your bank verifies the transaction and checks for fraud 3. The transfer is queued for processing (often in batches) 4. The funds move through the banking network 5. The casino's bank receives the funds 6. The casino's bank notifies the casino 7. The casino credits your account Each step adds time. Banks also process transfers during business hours only, so transfers initiated on Friday evening may not start processing until Monday morning.
Factors That Affect Processing Time
Time of day: Transfers initiated early in the business day process faster than those initiated late or after hours.
Day of the week: Transfers started on Friday or before a holiday take longer due to non-business days.
Domestic vs international: International transfers require more verification and currency conversion, adding 1-3 days.
Bank fraud checks: Large or unusual transfers may trigger additional security reviews, delaying processing.
Casino verification: If your casino account isn't fully verified, the casino may hold the deposit until you complete KYC checks. Learn more about KYC verification requirements.
Pros of Bank Transfer Deposits
High Security
Bank transfers are among the most secure payment methods. Money moves directly between verified bank accounts with strong fraud protection and regulatory oversight.
No Transaction Limits (Usually)
While cards and e-wallets often have deposit limits, bank transfers typically allow much larger amounts—useful for high-stakes players.
No Intermediaries
Unlike e-wallets, you're not creating a separate account or sharing details with third parties. It's a direct bank-to-bank transaction.
Widely Available
Nearly every bank supports transfers, and most licensed casinos accept them. You don't need a credit card, e-wallet, or specialized payment service.
No Extra Fees (Often)
Many banks don't charge for domestic transfers, especially within the same country. This can make bank transfers cheaper than prepaid vouchers or some e-wallets.
Accepted for Withdrawals
Unlike prepaid vouchers, bank transfers work both ways. You can deposit and withdraw using the same method.
Cons of Bank Transfer Deposits
Slow Processing
The biggest drawback. Waiting 1-5 business days for a deposit to clear means you can't play immediately. If you want instant access, bank transfers aren't suitable.
Complex Setup
You need to manually enter the casino's bank details, including account numbers, sort codes, IBAN, and SWIFT codes. Mistakes can delay or misdirect your funds.
Fees for International Transfers
While domestic transfers are often free, international transfers can incur: - Your bank's outgoing transfer fee (£10-£30) - The receiving bank's incoming fee - Currency conversion fees (1-3%) - Intermediary bank fees (if multiple banks are involved) Always check fees before initiating an international transfer.
Banking Hours Constraints
Transfers only process during business days. Deposits initiated on weekends or holidays are delayed until the next business day.
Risk of Errors
Entering incorrect bank details can result in lost or misdirected funds. Always double-check account numbers, sort codes, and other details before confirming.
When Should You Use Bank Transfers?
Bank transfers make sense if: -
You're depositing large amounts that exceed card or e-wallet limits -
You don't have a credit card or e-wallet and prefer direct bank payments -
You're not in a hurry and can wait 1-5 days for the deposit to process -
You want a secure, direct transaction without intermediaries -
Your bank offers free or low-cost transfersBank transfers are less suitable if: - You want to start playing immediately - You're making small deposits (fees may not be worth it) - You prefer simple, fast payment methods - You're depositing frequently (multiple transfers = multiple delays) For faster options, consider instant bank transfers, e-wallets, or cards.
How to Make a Bank Transfer Deposit
Step 1: Check the Casino's Bank Details
Go to the casino's banking or cashier section. Select "Bank Transfer" as your deposit method. The casino will display their bank account details: - Account name - Account number - Sort code (UK) or routing number (US) - IBAN (for international transfers) - SWIFT/BIC code (for international transfers) - Reference number (important—links the transfer to your casino account)
Critical: Write down or screenshot these details. Entering them incorrectly can delay or lose your funds.
Step 2: Log Into Your Bank Account
Use your bank's online banking portal or mobile app. Navigate to the "Transfer" or "Send Money" section.
Step 3: Enter the Casino's Bank Details
Fill in: - Recipient name (the casino or their payment processor) - Account number - Sort code / routing number - IBAN and SWIFT code (if international) - Transfer amount -
Reference number (provided by the casino—essential for matching your deposit to your account) Double-check every detail before proceeding.
Step 4: Confirm and Authorize
Review the transfer details, check fees, and confirm. Your bank may require 2FA (password, code sent to phone, etc.) for security.
Step 5: Wait for Processing
Standard bank transfers take 1-5 business days. Check your casino account periodically. Some casinos send an email when the deposit is credited.
Step 6: Contact Support if Delayed
If your deposit hasn't arrived after 5 business days, contact both your bank and the casino's support team. Provide your transfer reference number and proof of payment.
Common Bank Transfer Issues
Deposit Delayed or Not Arriving
Causes: Incorrect bank details, missing reference number, bank fraud checks, international transfer delays, weekends/holidays.
Solution: Verify the transfer was sent from your bank. Confirm you used the correct reference number. Contact the casino's support with your transaction details and proof of payment.
Transfer Rejected by Bank
Cause: Some banks block or restrict gambling-related transfers as a policy stance or fraud prevention measure.
Solution: Contact your bank to authorize gambling transactions, or use an alternative payment method.
High Fees
Cause: International transfers, currency conversion, or intermediary bank fees.
Solution: Check fees before initiating the transfer. For international deposits, consider using an e-wallet or instant bank transfer instead.
Funds Sent to Wrong Account
Cause: Incorrect bank details entered.
Solution: Contact your bank immediately to attempt a recall. Contact the casino's support team. Recovery can be difficult and may take weeks.
Bank Transfers vs Other Deposit Methods
| Feature | Bank Transfer | Cards | E-Wallets | Instant Banking | |---------|---------------|-------|-----------|-----------------| |
Speed | 1-5 days | Instant | Instant | Instant | |
Fees | Low-Moderate | Low | Low | Low | |
Limits | High | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate | |
Security | Very High | High | High | Very High | |
Ease of Use | Complex | Easy | Easy | Easy | |
Withdrawal Support | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | For a full comparison of all deposit methods, see our beginner's guide to casino deposits.
How to Speed Up Bank Transfer Deposits
While you can't bypass banking networks, you can reduce delays: -
Initiate transfers early in the week (Monday-Wednesday) to avoid weekend delays -
Start transfers early in the business day for same-day processing -
Use domestic transfers when possible to avoid international delays -
Ensure your casino account is fully verified (KYC completed) to prevent holds -
Double-check all bank details to avoid errors that cause delays -
Consider instant bank transfers (Trustly, Pay N Play) for near-instant processing
Are Bank Transfers Safe?
Yes, when used at licensed casinos. Bank transfers are one of the safest payment methods: -
Regulated by banking authorities with strict security and fraud protection standards -
Encrypted transactions through secure banking networks -
Direct account-to-account transfers with no intermediaries -
Strong fraud detection by banks monitoring for suspicious activity
What Makes Bank Transfers Risky
Bank transfers become risky when: - You send money to unlicensed or unverified casinos - You enter incorrect bank details and funds go to the wrong account - You don't keep records of your transfer (reference numbers, receipts) Always verify the casino is licensed and legitimate before initiating a bank transfer. See our guide on how to verify casino safety.