These are offered to players after they complete the registration process and make their first deposit to the casino. It is applicable only on the first deposit. It is specified as a percent of the deposit subject to a maximum limit. This implies that no matter what amount the player deposits the welcome bonus cannot exceed the specified limit. Most casinos specify a minimum deposit of $20 in order to avail of the welcome bonus. There are certain important factors that players must keep in mind.

• The bonus must be wagered a specified number of times.
  Neither the bonus nor the deposit can be withdrawn until the bonus has been wagered the specified number of times. Some casinos require both the deposit and the bonus to be wagered.
• The wagers have to be placed on specified games.The wagers have to be placed on specified games.
  Casinos restrict the games on which the wagers can be placed for availing the bonus. Usually games with high house edges such as slots are allowed. Casinos want players to popularize these games and hence these restrictions. Many casinos offer a graded wagering system. Games like slots and parlor games count 100% towards wagering requirements. Table games, such as poker, casino war and sic bo count only 50% towards wagering requirements. Video poker, craps and baccarat count only 10% towards wagering requirements. Blackjack and roulettes count only 2% towards wagering requirements.
• The bonus is not available to players of certain countries
  Casinos have a ‘blacklist’ of countries and players from these countries are not entitled to the welcome bonus. The reason given is there has been significant abuse of the terms of the bonus by players from these countries. Many casinos have a second blacklist of countries. Players from these countries can avail of the welcome bonus, but have to meet doubled wagering requirements.

This is a comparatively newer form of welcome bonus. Players are allowed say a hundred spins on a specified slots game and get to keep the winnings. Some casinos give a range of slots games. Others give an amount but specify that it must cover a minimum number of wagers. In case they end up with no winnings they are entitled to avail the general bonus. The following factors must be borne in mind.

• A time limit is specified
  There is a time limit specified, usually one hour. The number of spins or wagers must be completed in one hour. If the player gets logged off the clock still runs so the player must ensure a good Internet connection.
• A minimum winning limit is specified
  Usually casinos specify a nominal minimum limit to the winnings. If the player has won less than this limit he does not get any bonus