Qiwi

Qiwi is a financial technology company that provides an ecosystem of payment and financial services. While it once had a strong presence in Russia, its operations there were halted in February 2024 when the Central Bank of Russia revoked the banking license of JSC QIWI Bank, citing violations of anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing laws. The company originated from a network of payment kiosks in 2007, which allowed users to make quick cash-based payments for a variety of services. This “omnichannel” model allowed Qiwi to serve both unbanked consumers through its physical terminal network and digitally native users through its online platforms. As of late 2023, prior to the license revocation, the company's payment services division handled a total payment volume of RUB 210.5 billion. Following the cessation of its Russian business, Qiwi's focus has shifted entirely to its international operations.

Qiwi

Number of Games

Type

E-wallet

Fees

1-2%

Processing time

Instant

Casinologia/Qiwi

Alex Matt

Digital Marketing Strategist

18.09.2025

Updated

Key Facts

Company

QIWI plc

Headquaters

Nicosia, Cyprus

Established

2007

Number of users

16,000,000+

Qiwi Markets:

Kazakhstan

United Arab Emirates

What Is Qiwi and How It Dominates Online Casino Payments?

Qiwi has established itself as a leading payment solution for online gaming, particularly in its primary markets. Functioning as a secure digital wallet, it facilitates seamless and efficient financial transactions. The core appeal of Qiwi lies in its ability to offer a direct and confidential link between a player's funds and an online casino. This method allows users to deposit and withdraw money without the need to share private banking details, offering a significant layer of security and anonymity. The service's widespread presence across physical terminals and its integration with a virtual Visa card further enhance its accessibility for a broad user base.

A defining feature of the Qiwi system is its focus on instant, secure transactions. For players, this means that deposits are processed almost instantly, enabling them to start playing without delay. The withdrawal process is also streamlined, though the timeline can vary depending on the casino's own processing policies. This efficiency, combined with the a low-to-no fee structure and a user-friendly interface, has made Qiwi a preferred option for players who prioritize speed and convenience. For online casinos, accepting Qiwi as a payment method simplifies payment processing and helps to reduce the risk of fraud, as transactions are managed through a secure, third-party system.

While Qiwi has a strong foothold in its core markets, its adoption in the global online gambling landscape is tied to its regional availability. Its unique model, which combines a virtual wallet with a physical network of terminals, provides a distinct advantage in the regions it serves. This hybrid approach to digital payments, catering to both online and offline habits, has cemented its position as a go-to payment method for a significant segment of the iGaming community.

Is Gambling with Qiwi Legal?

Despite its historical advantages, a major development in February 2024 significantly altered Qiwi's standing. The Central Bank of Russia revoked the banking license of Qiwi Bank, citing systematic violations of laws related to anti-money laundering and the financing of terrorism. This action immediately halted all transactions from Qiwi wallets and rendered its physical payment terminals inoperable. As a result, the Qiwi payment system effectively ceased functioning, which had a profound impact on its services, particularly for online casinos and players who relied on it. This event has led to a re-evaluation of Qiwi's role as a viable payment solution in the markets it once dominated.

Following the license revocation, the financial consequences were immediate and severe. QIWI plc, the parent company, recognized an impairment loss of approximately 14.4 billion rubles on its divested Russian assets, with an additional estimated loss of 22.7 billion rubles to be recognized later. This was in connection with a previously negotiated sale of its Russian assets to a new entity owned by its former CEO. The Central Bank's action on Qiwi Bank, the core of the Russian business, complicated the terms of this transaction. QIWI plc has since been renamed NanduQ PLC and is now focusing on its international business operations, particularly in markets like Kazakhstan and the UAE, while also exploring new opportunities for growth through mergers and acquisitions in the fintech sector. This strategic pivot aims to secure the company's future outside of its former primary market.

🌍 Kiwi Gambling Legality by Region

Payment Method	Region	Legality / Use for Gambling	Notes
Qiwi (NanduQ)	UAE & Kazakhstan	Partially legal in Kazakhstan; restricted in UAE	Primary markets after the sale of Russian assets. Legal gambling is regulated in Kazakhstan; gambling is illegal in the UAE.

Fees, Delays, and Hidden Costs

Like most e-wallets, the Qiwi (now NanduQ) model involves a user-facing account that can be funded and used for online transactions, including gambling where it is legally permitted. While some online gambling operators may absorb the transaction costs, users should be aware of the potential for fees associated with funding and withdrawing from their Qiwi wallet itself. These fees can vary depending on the funding method (e.g., bank transfer, card deposit, cash terminals) and the region of use.

No Direct Gambling Operator Fees: Many online casinos do not charge a direct fee for using Qiwi for deposits or withdrawals, as the cost is often covered by the operator due to the payment method's efficiency. However, it's crucial for players to check the specific casino's terms and conditions.
Processing Times and Delays: Deposits to an online casino using a Qiwi wallet are typically instant, allowing players to access their funds and begin playing immediately. Withdrawals, while also generally fast, can take longer. Any delays are usually due to the casino's own internal security and verification checks before the withdrawal is released. Once released by the casino, the funds typically appear in the Qiwi wallet within minutes.
Funding and Withdrawal Nuances: The primary costs for a user come from the process of getting money into and out of the Qiwi wallet. This can include small fees for converting foreign currency if the wallet's currency differs from the source funds. Additionally, some bank transfers or cash deposits to the wallet may incur a small charge. While these fees are generally minimal, they can add up over time. It is important for users to understand that these are fees from Qiwi (or a third-party service) and not from the gambling operator.

How to Use Qiwi for Online Gambling

Using Qiwi for online gambling is a popular choice, and it's a bit different from using a regular credit card. The key is that you're using a digital wallet as an intermediary, which can make things faster and more secure.

Step 1

Get Your Qiwi Wallet Ready

Before anything else, you need to create and fund your Qiwi wallet. This is the central hub for all your transactions. You can add money to your Kiwi wallet from various sources like bank cards, online transfers, or even cash terminals, depending on your location.

Step 2

Choose a Casino That Supports Qiwi

Not every online casino accepts Qiwi directly. Look for a reputable, licensed casino that explicitly lists Qiwi as a deposit and withdrawal method. Some platforms might accept it through a third-party payment aggregator, so check the “Cashier” or “Banking” section for all available options.

Step 3

Register and Verify Your Account

Just like with any other payment method, you'll need to sign up for an account at the online casino. Be sure to provide accurate and truthful information during registration. You might be asked to complete a KYC (Know Your Customer) verification, which usually involves providing a form of identification. This is a standard security measure to prevent fraud and ensure you can withdraw your winnings later.

Step 4

Go to the Deposit Section

Once your casino account is set up, navigate to the deposit page. Select Qiwi from the list of payment methods. The casino will then ask you to enter the amount you want to deposit.

Step 5

Log into Your Qiwi Account to Confirm

After entering the deposit amount on the casino's site, you'll be redirected to your Qiwi wallet's login page or prompted to log in through a pop-up window. Use your registered mobile number and the temporary password sent via SMS to log in. This confirms that the transaction is authorized by you and adds an extra layer of security. The funds should be instantly transferred from your Qiwi wallet to your casino account.

Step 6

Request a Withdrawal to Your Qiwi Wallet

When you're ready to cash out your winnings, go to the casino's withdrawal section and select Qiwi as your withdrawal method. You will need to enter your Qiwi wallet details, usually your mobile number. The casino will then process the request, which can take anywhere from a few hours to a couple of days, depending on their internal processing times.

Step 7

Withdraw Funds from Your Qiwi Wallet

After the funds land in your Qiwi wallet, you have a few options. You can use the money to make other online purchases, or you can transfer the funds from your Qiwi wallet to your bank account or a linked debit card. Be aware that Qiwi and your bank may have their own processing fees or limits for these transfers.

New Online Casinos That Accept Qiwi

Qiwi's e-wallet has emerged as a preferred solution for many online casinos, particularly in Eastern Europe and Russia. Operators launching new platforms are keen to integrate this solution as it provides a trusted, regionally-specific payment gateway that can significantly broaden their player base. For players, this translates to a seamless and secure experience: fast deposits and withdrawals, coupled with the security of an e-wallet that acts as a buffer between their bank and the casino.

The new casinos that have embraced Qiwi are often those targeting markets in Eastern Europe and the CIS, where Qiwi has become a standard and well-understood payment method. While the speed and familiarity are major draws, it's essential for players to ensure the platform they choose holds a valid license from a reputable gaming authority.

Qiwi's security is anchored by its robust e-wallet platform and mobile phone verification for transactions, which has helped these casinos establish a reputation for reliability right from the start. However, it's important to be aware that while transactions are often instant, the casino's internal processing for large withdrawals can still be subject to a review. The widespread integration of Qiwi by new online platforms highlights its role as a key driver of growth and a benchmark for a new era of online gambling focused on speed, security, and a frictionless player experience in its primary markets.

Sportsbooks That Accept Qiwi

Qiwi has rapidly become a preferred payment method for online sportsbooks, particularly in Eastern European and CIS markets, due to its ability to facilitate fast e-wallet transactions. This method is perfectly suited for sports bettors who need to make quick deposits to place time-sensitive bets on live events or in-play markets. Many leading sportsbooks have integrated Qiwi, leveraging its secure and seamless process for both deposits and withdrawals. A key advantage is its status as a widely used e-wallet, which acts as a convenient buffer between the user's bank and the betting platform, reducing the friction of sharing sensitive card details.

For sports bettors, Qiwi offers unparalleled speed for deposits, which are credited instantly. While withdrawals are also processed quickly, they may not be instant and can still be subject to the sportsbook’s internal review processes. This fast access to funds is a major draw. The security is also a high point, as the transaction is confirmed via mobile phone verification, adding an extra layer of protection. This has helped new sportsbooks build a reputation for reliability right from the start. The widespread integration of Qiwi highlights its role as a key driver of growth and a benchmark for a new era of online betting focused on speed, security, and a familiar user experience in its primary markets. As with all payment methods, it's essential for players to verify that the sportsbook accepts Qiwi for both deposits and withdrawals in their specific jurisdiction and that they are using a licensed and reputable platform.

Live Casinos That Support Qiwi Payments

Across Eastern European and CIS markets, Qiwi has emerged as a go-to payment solution for online sportsbooks and live casinos, due to its ability to facilitate fast e-wallet transactions. This method is perfectly suited for players who need to make quick deposits to join a live dealer table or place time-sensitive bets on live events. Many leading gaming platforms have integrated Qiwi, leveraging its secure and seamless process for both deposits and withdrawals. A key advantage is its status as a widely used e-wallet, which acts as a convenient buffer between the user's bank and the gaming platform, reducing the friction of sharing sensitive card details.

For players, Qiwi offers unparalleled speed for deposits, which are credited instantly. While withdrawals are also processed quickly, they may not be instant and can still be subject to the casino’s or sportsbook’s internal review processes. This fast access to funds is a major draw for players who want to jump into live action without delay. The security is also a high point, as the transaction is confirmed via mobile phone verification, adding an extra layer of protection. This has helped new gaming platforms build a reputation for reliability right from the start.

The widespread integration of Qiwi highlights its role as a key driver of growth and a benchmark for a new era of online gaming focused on speed, security, and a familiar user experience in its primary markets. As with all payment methods, it's essential for players to verify that the platform accepts Qiwi for both deposits and withdrawals in their specific jurisdiction and that they are using a licensed and reputable platform.

Qiwi Gambling Compared to Other Banking Methods

Qiwi was once a dominant payment solution in Russia and parts of the CIS, widely used for online gambling, digital goods, and everyday payments. Its strength came from convenience: players could fund Qiwi wallets through cash terminals, cards, or bank transfers, and then use those funds for deposits without exposing their primary banking details. However, after the Central Bank of Russia revoked Qiwi Bank’s license in February 2024 due to compliance violations, the service effectively disappeared from the Russian financial landscape.

Today, Qiwi retains limited presence in markets like Kazakhstan, where it can still be used for regulated gambling, but elsewhere it has shifted more toward niche uses such as topping up Steam accounts or paying for online games. Compared to modern open-banking options like Trustly or global eWallets, Qiwi now lacks reach, stability, and regulatory backing. For players, this means Qiwi is no longer a reliable or sustainable method for gambling deposits, though it may remain a familiar name in localized gaming transactions.

Qiwi vs. Other Payment Methods

Criteria	Qiwi (Wallet/Terminals)	eWallets (Skrill/Neteller)	Cryptocurrencies
Deposit Speed	Instant (when functional, via wallet or terminal)	Instant	Instant
Withdrawal Speed	1–24 hours (historically fast, now restricted)	1–24 hours	Under 1 hour
Anonymity	Moderate (wallet separated from bank, but KYC needed)	Moderate (bank-linked, casino name masked)	High (wallet address only)
Fees	Low to moderate (transaction & conversion fees)	Varies by provider, FX fees possible	Network/gas fees
Bonus Eligibility	Usually eligible	Often excluded	Sometimes excluded
Global Acceptance	Very limited today (Kazakhstan, some gaming only)	Moderate	Low to moderate
KYC Requirement	Required by wallet provider & casino	Required by provider & casino	Varies by casino (some allow no-KYC crypto)
Chargebacks	Not supported (transactions final)	No	No

Qiwi Funding Methods – Wallets and Localized Payments

Qiwi operated differently from open banking methods like Trustly. Instead of linking directly to your bank, it allowed users to load funds into a wallet using cash terminals, debit/credit cards, or transfers. This flexibility made it popular among players who wanted to separate gambling spend from their main bank account. However, since the collapse of Qiwi Bank in 2024, functionality has been severely limited, with most Russian services shut down. Today, Qiwi still has a foothold in Kazakhstan for regulated gambling, but its broader use is confined to niche areas such as Steam and certain gaming top-ups.

Wallet Funding (Traditional Qiwi)

Historically, this was the most common Qiwi method. Players could deposit cash at terminals or transfer from bank accounts/cards into their Qiwi wallet. Withdrawals were routed back to the wallet and then out via bank or card. While fast and simple, it is no longer available in Russia and has limited use elsewhere.

Debit/Credit Card Linked to Qiwi: In supported regions, cards could be linked to Qiwi accounts, offering smoother deposits and easier wallet top-ups. Today, this feature is mostly redundant, as many regulated gambling markets no longer accept Qiwi as a valid method.
Gaming Top-Ups (Steam/Online Games): One of Qiwi’s few surviving uses is in localized gaming payments. Steam and some regional game publishers still allow Qiwi balances for in-game purchases, but this is increasingly regional and not tied to online gambling.

Qiwi Funding Methods

Feature	Wallet Funding (Terminals/Transfers)	Debit/Credit Card Linked to Qiwi	Gaming Top-Ups (Steam/Other)
Deposit Eligibility	High (when supported locally)	Moderate	Moderate (gaming only, not gambling)
Withdrawal Support	Moderate (wallet to bank/card)	Moderate	Not applicable
Fees	Low to moderate	Standard card/wallet fees	Usually none or small %
Spending Control	Moderate (wallet balance limited)	Moderate	High (limited to gaming spend)
Bank Visibility	Partial (separated from main bank)	Full (bank sees card usage)	None (wallet → gaming only)
Common Use Case	Gambling in CIS (historic, now rare)	Regional top-ups	Online gaming purchases

Security, Disputes, and Account Limitations: How Safe Is Qiwi for Online Gambling?

Qiwi once provided a practical and semi-secure way to fund online gambling accounts, especially across Russia and the CIS, but its security model worked very differently from bank-integrated solutions like Trustly. Qiwi operated as a wallet system: players could load money through cash terminals, linked cards, or bank transfers, and then use that balance for deposits. This setup offered some privacy, since players didn’t have to expose their main bank details to gambling sites.

However, Qiwi’s downfall came from the very weaknesses in its oversight and compliance. In February 2024, the Central Bank of Russia revoked Qiwi Bank’s license, citing repeated violations of anti–money laundering and counter-terrorist financing laws, with regulators highlighting links to high-risk gambling transactions. This led to Qiwi wallets and payment terminals shutting down in Russia, leaving users unable to access funds or continue making transactions.

For those in regions where Qiwi is still partially supported (such as Kazakhstan), the key security and limitation points are:

Regulatory Restrictions: Qiwi is no longer recognized as a stable or fully compliant financial provider in Russia. Its use in gambling is now confined to limited, regulated markets.
Account Freezes and Suspensions: Because Qiwi was under heavy regulatory scrutiny, accounts tied to unusual gambling activity were more likely to face sudden freezes, with little recourse.
Disputes: As with most wallet providers, disputes over gambling outcomes are between the player and the casino, not Qiwi. Once a transfer is complete, Qiwi has no involvement.
Visibility and Privacy: Qiwi wallets separated gambling spend from a user’s main bank, which appealed to some players. Still, KYC requirements meant transactions were not anonymous, and regulators could track activity if needed.

Ultimately, Qiwi’s security issues stemmed less from its technology and more from governance. While the system was convenient and easy to use, it lacked the regulatory stability of bank-backed methods and eventually collapsed under compliance pressures. For players today, Qiwi is no longer a reliable or recommended option for gambling, though it may persist in niche gaming uses outside of the banking mainstream.

Payment Transparency – Are Qiwi Casinos Clear on Terms?

Casinos that supported Qiwi once highlighted it as a quick and flexible option, especially popular in Russia and parts of the CIS where cash terminals and wallets gave players convenient ways to move money. On the surface, the process looked simple: top up your Qiwi wallet at a terminal or with a linked card, then transfer funds into the casino account. However, the reality was often less transparent. With Qiwi now shut down in Russia and only partially supported in markets like Kazakhstan, the terms governing its use are even harder to pin down. For players in regions where Qiwi remains active, understanding fees, limits, and conditions is critical, as casinos and regulators rarely present this information clearly.

“Fast & Convenient” Wasn’t the Full Picture

Qiwi was often promoted as instant and low-cost, but players could still encounter hidden or unclear charges, such as:

Conversion Costs: If deposits or withdrawals were made in a currency not native to Qiwi, exchange rate markups applied.
Wallet Fees: While topping up through cash terminals was cheap, card-linked transactions sometimes carried additional fees.
Casino Admin Charges: Certain operators quietly added withdrawal fees for Qiwi even when advertising “free transactions.”

Withdrawal Terms Were Not Always Transparent

Qiwi withdrawals were generally smooth, but delays and limitations were common:

Internal Casino Delays: Some sites imposed pending periods (e.g., 12–48 hours) before releasing funds to Qiwi.
Unclear Limits: Minimum and maximum withdrawal thresholds varied and were not always shown up front.
Regulatory Holds: In regions under stricter monitoring, transactions could be delayed or rejected entirely.

Bonus Eligibility Could Be Confusing

Qiwi deposits usually qualified for casino bonuses, but not universally:

Often Eligible, With Exceptions: Some casinos excluded Qiwi-funded deposits from promotions, especially in highly regulated markets.
Different Contribution Rules: In certain cases, Qiwi deposits counted differently toward wagering requirements, though this was less common than with eWallets.

Terms Were Scattered Across Sites

Like many wallet-based payment methods, Qiwi rarely had its conditions spelled out in one place. Players often had to check:

Bonus Terms & Conditions for eligibility
Payments/Banking FAQ for deposit and withdrawal specifics
General Casino Terms for overarching limits and restrictions

Philosophical Note – Should Rational Gamblers Use Qiwi?

Qiwi once represented a pragmatic choice for players in Russia and the CIS who wanted flexibility, cash-based top-ups, and a degree of separation from their main bank accounts. It was especially appealing to gamblers who didn’t want to tie gambling spend directly to their bank cards and preferred the convenience of cash terminals or a wallet balance. For a time, Qiwi filled an important gap between fully anonymous payment methods and tightly regulated bank transfers.

For convenience-focused players, Qiwi made sense when it was at its peak. It provided multiple funding channels — cash, cards, and bank transfers — while allowing withdrawals to flow back into the wallet. Players could manage gambling funds without exposing their primary accounts, which felt like an extra layer of control and privacy.
For bonus-seekers, Qiwi generally worked well, as casinos often accepted it for welcome offers and reload promotions. Unlike Skrill or Neteller, which are sometimes excluded from bonuses, Qiwi-funded deposits were typically eligible. This made it attractive for players looking to stretch their bankroll.
For privacy-driven or high-volume players, however, Qiwi was always a compromise. While it separated gambling from your bank statement, it was still subject to KYC checks, monitoring, and eventually regulatory intervention. It never provided the anonymity of cryptocurrency, nor the bank-level stability of open banking tools like Trustly.
For international players, Qiwi’s utility has now almost entirely disappeared. With the collapse of Qiwi Bank in 2024 and the suspension of its services in Russia, the method is now only partially usable in Kazakhstan and for non-gambling services such as Steam top-ups. This makes it a niche, regional option rather than a universal tool for gamblers.

In philosophical terms, Qiwi is no longer a rational choice for modern gamblers. Its instability, regulatory setbacks, and shrinking availability mean that players are better served by regulated methods like Trustly or the anonymity of cryptocurrencies. While Qiwi once bridged a gap in local markets, it is now more of a relic than a rational option for today’s gambling landscape.

Online Casinos Accepting Qiwi – FAQs

Historically, Qiwi deposits were instant, especially when funded through cash terminals or linked cards. Today, since Qiwi is no longer operational in Russia and only partially supported in Kazakhstan, speed depends on the local operator. In active regions, deposits are usually fast but availability is limited.

In markets where Qiwi is still supported, withdrawals can be processed back to the wallet. However, many casinos have removed Qiwi as a withdrawal option after its license was revoked in Russia. Players should confirm availability with their chosen operator.

Yes, fees can apply. Cash terminal top-ups were usually low-cost, but card or currency-conversion fees were common. Some casinos also applied their own administrative charges to Qiwi withdrawals.

In most cases, yes. Unlike Skrill or Neteller, Qiwi deposits were generally bonus-eligible. That said, with Qiwi’s shrinking footprint, bonus eligibility is now highly dependent on the specific casino and jurisdiction.

Qiwi required KYC verification, meaning casinos and regulators could link wallet transactions to your identity. While it offered some separation from your main bank account, activity was not anonymous.

No. Qiwi is now largely unavailable, with limited acceptance in Kazakhstan and select niche operators. It is no longer recognized in Russia and has little to no presence in European or international regulated markets.

Qiwi’s technical security was reasonable, but its regulatory oversight was weak. The revocation of Qiwi Bank’s license in 2024 highlighted major compliance issues. Today, it is less secure and less reliable than alternatives like Trustly or Visa.

The biggest issues are availability and account freezes. Since Qiwi’s suspension in Russia, players have struggled with failed transactions, blocked accounts, and disappearing support from casinos.

Not in the same way banks allow gambling-block features on cards. Players would need to avoid funding their Qiwi wallet or use regional self-exclusion tools if available.

Not directly. Bank statements would typically show a top-up to Qiwi, but not the gambling transaction itself. Still, regulators and operators could track activity through KYC-linked records.

Check whether the casino still supports Qiwi — many no longer do. If Qiwi is not accepted, you’ll need to use an alternative such as Visa, Trustly, or a regulated eWallet.