New Casino Sites UK 2026: Top Fresh Brands Ranked

New Casino Sites UK 2026 — The Fresh Brands Worth Your Time

New casino sites keep landing in the UK market every single month. The Gambling Commission currently holds over 2,300 operating licences, yet only a fraction of newly launched brands actually deserve your attention. This guide cuts through the noise to show you which fresh operators are worth registering with in 2026 and why verification matters more than a flashy welcome bonus.

Since the 2005 Gambling Act gave way to the 2023 White Paper reforms, the compliance bar has risen sharply. Operators launching today face stricter affordability checks, mandatory deposit limits and enhanced KYC protocols. That is good news for you. A new casino that survives its first 12 months under these rules has already proven it can handle real regulatory pressure.

What Defines a New Casino Site in 2026?

A new casino site is typically any brand that has been live for less than 24 months. However, the label gets thrown around loosely across comparison portals, many of which list operators that have simply reskinned an existing platform. The real test is whether the site holds its own Gambling Commission licence rather than operating under a white-label partner’s permit.

Fresh brands often bring better game portfolios, modern mobile experiences and more competitive promotions. But they also carry inherent risks. Around 40% of new online casinos fail to maintain their market position within three years, according to industry exit data. Knowing how to separate serious operators from fly-by-night operations is the difference between a solid experience and a frustrating one.

Which Regulator Actually Licenses New UK Casino Sites?

The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) is the only regulator that matters for British players. Since 2020, the Commission has required all remote gambling operators serving UK customers to hold a valid licence, regardless of where the company is based. Offshore operators without UKGC approval are breaking the law when they accept British players.

Every casino featured in this guide holds a current UKGC licence. You can verify any operator’s status directly on the Commission’s public register, which lists licence numbers, expiry dates and any regulatory actions taken. Checking this register takes less than two minutes and is the single most reliable way to confirm a site’s legitimacy.

How Long Does a UK Casino Licence Actually Take to Obtain?

The application process for a remote gambling licence takes between 12 and 16 weeks, assuming no complications arise. Applicants must demonstrate financial stability, submit detailed business plans and pass personal fitness tests for all key personnel. The application fee alone ranges from £2,500 to £75,000 depending on the licence type and expected gross gambling yield.

Once granted, licences are subject to annual fees and ongoing compliance reviews. The UKGC conducts regular audits, and operators must report any significant changes to their business structure within 10 working days. This regulatory framework is why newly licensed sites tend to be better run than their offshore counterparts.

What Is the Difference Between New and Reskinned Casino Brands?

Reskinned casinos happen when an established operator rebrands an existing platform under a fresh name. The games, payment systems and backend software remain identical — only the logo changes. Some reskins are legitimate marketing moves, while others aim to escape a poor reputation by starting over with a clean slate.

Check the licence number on any new site’s footer. If it matches a well-known operator like Bet365 or William Hill, you are looking at a reskin rather than a genuinely new brand. That is not automatically negative — some reskins offer excellent value. But you should know exactly what you are signing up for before depositing.

KYC Verification: Why New Casinos Demand Your Documents

Know Your Customer procedures, commonly called KYC, are the identity checks that online casinos run before allowing withdrawals. The UKGC requires all licensed operators to verify customer identity, age and address. New casino sites tend to enforce these checks more strictly than established brands because they are under closer regulatory scrutiny during their first years of operation.

The verification process typically involves submitting a photo ID, proof of address and sometimes a selfie for facial recognition. Modern systems from providers like Sumsub and Onfido can complete these checks in under 60 seconds. However, some operators still rely on manual review, which can take 24 to 72 hours depending on the volume of pending applications.

Why Do New Casino Sites Ask for Identification Before Payouts?

Identity checks protect you from fraud, money laundering and underage gambling. If someone steals your personal details and opens an account in your name, KYC procedures prevent them from withdrawing winnings. The checks also ensure that winnings are paid to the correct person, reducing disputes and chargeback risks.

For operators, KYC is a legal obligation under the Money Laundering Regulations 2017. Failing to conduct adequate checks can result in fines of up to £2 million or licence suspension. The UKGC has issued over £60 million in fines since 2020 for compliance failures, so new casinos take verification seriously from day one.

What Documents Do You Need to Pass Casino Verification?

Most UK casino sites require three standard documents to complete verification. A valid passport, driving licence or national ID card confirms your identity and age. A recent utility bill, bank statement or council tax letter dated within the last three months proves your address. Some operators also request a photo of you holding your ID for facial matching.

Digital verification has made this process faster. Around 65% of UK players can now complete KYC without uploading documents manually, thanks to open banking checks and government databases. However, be prepared to provide physical copies of documents if automated checks fail to match your records.

How Long Does Casino KYC Take in the UK?

Automated verification through services like Experian or Equifax typically completes within 5 to 15 minutes. Manual document review takes longer, usually between 24 and 48 hours on weekdays. Weekends and bank holidays can extend this period, so submitting your documents early in the week is always the smarter move.

New casino sites often adopt a phased verification approach. They may run basic checks at registration, request address confirmation before the first withdrawal and conduct enhanced due diligence for high-value transactions above £2,000. Understanding this process helps you avoid unnecessary delays when you win.

Can You Gamble at UK Casinos Without Completing KYC?

No licensed UK casino can legally allow you to gamble without completing at least basic identity verification. The Gambling Commission mandates that operators verify age and identity before customers can deposit or play. Attempting to bypass these checks is a breach of both the operator’s licence conditions and your account terms.

Some new sites offer a KYC-light registration where you provide minimal details upfront and complete full verification later. This convenience comes with a catch: your withdrawal requests will be blocked until you finish the process. Completing verification immediately after registration saves significant frustration when you cash out.

Top New Casino Sites Launching in the UK for 2026

The UK market continues to attract fresh operators despite stricter regulations. Based on licensing data, game portfolios and player feedback, several new brands stand out for 2026. These operators combine solid game libraries with fair terms and responsive customer support.

Each casino below has been assessed on its game selection, payment speed, bonus fairness and overall user experience. We have excluded any operator with a history of delayed payouts or unresolved player complaints. The list reflects genuine new brands rather than reskins of existing platforms.

Casino Licensed Since Game Count Withdrawal Time Welcome Offer
MrQ Casino 2021 1,300+ Instant to 2 hours 100% match up to £50
Rainbow Riches Casino 2022 800+ Up to 24 hours 50 free spins
Midnite Casino 2023 1,100+ Up to 4 hours 100% match up to £100
Pub Casino 2023 900+ Up to 12 hours 100% match up to £75
Duelz Casino 2024 2,000+ Up to 6 hours 100% match up to £100

What Makes MrQ Casino Stand Out Among New UK Sites?

MrQ Casino launched in 2021 and has built a reputation for no-wagering bonuses. The operator offers free spins with zero playthrough requirements, meaning whatever you win is yours to withdraw immediately. This transparency is rare in the UK market, where most casinos impose 30x to 40x wagering on promotional funds.

The game library features over 1,300 titles from providers including NetEnt, Pragmatic Play and Play’n GO. MrQ holds a UKGC licence and processes withdrawals within two hours through PayPal and bank transfer. The site’s clean design and fast loading times make it particularly appealing for mobile players.

Why Is Rainbow Riches Casino Popular with Slot Players?

Rainbow Riches Casino translates the beloved slot franchise into a full casino experience. The brand, operated by the same team behind the original slot series, offers over 800 games with a focus on Irish-themed entertainment. Players who enjoy the classic Rainbow Riches slot will find familiar gameplay paired with modern casino features.

New players receive 50 free spins upon registration with no deposit required. The casino supports instant withdrawals through PayPal, with most requests processed within 24 hours. Rainbow Riches Casino also runs regular tournaments where players compete for prize pools reaching £5,000 weekly.

How Does Midnite Casino Appeal to Younger Players?

Midnite Casino launched in 2023 with a sports-focused approach that extends into casino gaming. The platform integrates live betting with casino offerings, creating a seamless experience for users who enjoy both formats. Over 1,100 games are available, including exclusive titles from in-house developers.

The operator targets a younger demographic with its purple branding and esports coverage. Deposits via debit card reflect instantly, and withdrawals through Trustly arrive within four hours. Midnite holds a UKGC licence and offers responsible gambling tools including deposit limits and self-exclusion options.

What Does Pub Casino Bring to the UK Market?

Pub Casino launched in 2023, bringing a distinctly British theme to online gambling. The brand features pub-inspired graphics and sound effects, creating a familiar atmosphere for land-based casino visitors. Over 900 games are available, with strong representation from Evolution Gaming’s live dealer portfolio.

The welcome package includes a 100% match bonus up to £75 plus 25 free spins on selected slots. Withdrawals via bank transfer complete within 12 hours, while PayPal transactions process faster. Pub Casino’s customer support team responds to queries within 15 minutes on live chat during peak hours.

Is Duelz Casino Worth Considering in 2026?

Duelz Casino entered the market in 2024 with a gamified approach that rewards regular play. The platform features a level-based progression system where players earn experience points for every wager placed. Reaching higher levels unlocks cashback offers, free spins and exclusive tournaments with prize pools up to £10,000.

The game library exceeds 2,000 titles, making it one of the largest among new UK casinos. Withdrawals process within six hours through most payment methods. Duelz operates under a UKGC licence and participates in the Multi-Operator Self-Exclusion Scheme, allowing players to block themselves across multiple sites simultaneously.

How We Ranked the Best New Casino Sites

Our ranking methodology examines seven critical factors that determine whether a new casino delivers a positive experience. Game variety accounts for 20% of the score, followed by payment speed at 20% and bonus fairness at 15%. Customer support quality, mobile performance and site security each contribute 15%, with the final 10% based on player reviews and reputation.

We test each casino by creating real accounts, depositing funds and requesting withdrawals. This hands-on approach reveals issues that static reviews miss, such as hidden fees, slow verification or unresponsive support. Only operators that pass all seven criteria receive a recommendation.

Which Game Providers Should New Casinos Feature?

Top-tier game providers act as a quality signal for new casinos. Reputable developers like NetEnt, Microgaming and Pragmatic Play only license their games to operators that meet strict compliance standards. If a new site offers titles from these providers, it has passed rigorous due diligence checks.

Live casino games from Evolution Gaming are another positive indicator, as this provider maintains the highest standards for table game streaming. Hacksaw Gaming and Nolimit City slots signal a focus on modern, high-volatility entertainment. A balanced portfolio should include at least 10 providers to offer adequate variety.

How Fast Should New Casinos Process Withdrawals?

UKGC guidelines require operators to process withdrawal requests without undue delay, though no specific timeframe is mandated. Industry standards have improved significantly, with leading new casinos processing withdrawals within 24 hours. E-wallet withdrawals through PayPal or Skrill typically complete fastest, often within 2 to 4 hours.

Bank transfers remain the slowest method, taking 2 to 5 business days depending on your bank. Debit card withdrawals sit in the middle, processing within 1 to 3 business days. Any new casino that takes longer than 7 days to process a withdrawal without valid reason deserves scrutiny.

What Wagering Requirements Are Fair for New Casino Bonuses?

Wagering requirements determine how many times you must bet your bonus before withdrawing winnings. The UK average stands at 35x the bonus amount, though some operators impose 50x or higher. New casinos competing for market share often offer more generous terms, with 20x to 30x becoming increasingly common.

Pay attention to game contribution rates, as slots typically count 100% toward wagering while table games contribute only 10% to 20%. Time limits also matter — most bonuses expire within 30 days. A fair bonus should have wagering below 40x, a 30-day validity period and no restrictions on high-value slots.

How Should New Players Verify Casino Licences?

Check the casino footer for a Gambling Commission logo and licence number. This number typically starts with the prefix 000- and is followed by a unique identifier. Cross-reference this number against the UKGC public register, which provides details about the licence holder, status and any regulatory actions.

Be aware that some operators display a UKGC licence number belonging to their parent company rather than their own. This practice is legal but means the brand operates under another entity’s licence. Verify that the licence holder matches the brand you are playing with to ensure full regulatory protection.

Bonuses and Promotions at New Casino Sites

New casino sites use generous promotions to attract players away from established brands. Welcome offers at new UK casinos typically range from 100% to 200% match bonuses, capped between £50 and £500. Free spins packages of 20 to 100 spins are standard additions to these offers.

However, promotional generosity often comes with strings attached. New operators may impose higher wagering requirements or restrict bonus eligibility to specific games. Reading the full terms and conditions before claiming any offer remains essential for avoiding unpleasant surprises at withdrawal time.

Which New Casino Sites Offer No Deposit Bonuses?

No deposit bonuses at new UK casinos remain relatively uncommon due to regulatory pressure. The UKGC has expressed concerns about bonuses encouraging excessive gambling, leading many operators to phase out no-deposit offers. Rainbow Riches Casino stands out by offering 50 free spins with no deposit required, though winnings are capped at £100.

Other operators occasionally run limited-time no-deposit promotions for new players. These offers typically provide £5 to £10 in bonus funds or 10 to 20 free spins. Always check the wagering requirements on no-deposit bonuses, as they often carry higher multipliers of 50x or more.

How Do New Casino Free Spins Offers Compare?

Free spins remain the most popular promotional tool among new UK casinos. Standard offers include 20 to 100 spins on popular slots like Starburst, Book of Dead or Big Bass Bonanza. Some operators tie free spins to specific game providers, while others allow you to choose from a selection of eligible titles.

Winnings from free spins typically carry wagering requirements between 20x and 40x. Many new casinos cap free spin winnings at £50 to £100, meaning any excess is forfeited. Pay attention to expiry dates, as free spins often expire within 7 days of being credited to your account.

Do New Casinos Offer Better Odds or RTP Than Established Brands?

Return to Player percentages are determined by game providers, not individual casinos. A slot with a 96.5% RTP at bet365 casino offers the same theoretical return at any new casino site. However, new operators sometimes secure exclusive deals with providers, offering slightly better RTP on selected games to attract players.

Live casino games from Evolution Gaming maintain consistent house edges across all operators. Blackjack typically offers a 99.5% RTP with optimal play, while roulette sits at 97.3% for European versions. These figures remain identical regardless of which casino you choose, so focus on bonuses and payment speed instead.

What Are the Most Common Bonus Terms at New UK Casinos?

New UK casinos typically impose a maximum bet limit of £5 per spin when playing with bonus funds. Game restrictions exclude certain high-RTP slots and all live dealer games from bonus play. Some operators also limit which payment methods qualify for bonus eligibility, with e-wallets often excluded from welcome offers.

Bonus expiry periods range from 7 to 30 days depending on the operator. If you fail to meet wagering requirements within this timeframe, the bonus and any associated winnings are forfeited. Several new casinos now offer no-wagering bonuses, where you receive real cash that can be withdrawn immediately after meeting minimal conditions.

Payment Methods Available at New Casino Sites

Modern new casinos support a broad range of payment methods to accommodate player preferences. Debit cards from Visa and Mastercard remain the most widely accepted option, with deposits processing instantly. PayPal has become a standard e-wallet choice, offering an additional layer of privacy between your bank and the casino.

Open banking payments through services like Trustly and TrueLayer have gained significant traction. These systems allow direct bank transfers without sharing your banking credentials with the casino. Around 40% of new UK casino deposits now occur through open banking, reflecting growing consumer trust in this payment method.

Which Payment Methods Offer the Fastest Casino Withdrawals?

E-wallets consistently provide the fastest withdrawal processing times at new casinos. PayPal, Skrill and Neteller withdrawals typically complete within 2 to 4 hours after approval. Trustly and other open banking solutions process within similar timeframes, making them excellent choices for players who prioritise speed.

Debit card withdrawals take longer, usually between 1 and 3 business days due to banking processing times. Bank transfers remain the slowest option at 2 to 5 business days. Some new casinos now offer instant withdrawals directly to debit cards through Visa Direct technology, though this feature remains limited to select operators.

Are There Fees for Casino Deposits and Withdrawals?

Most new UK casinos absorb payment processing fees for standard methods. Debit card deposits are typically free, as are PayPal transactions. However, some operators impose fees on withdrawals after a certain threshold or if you make excessive requests within a short period.

Bank transfers may incur charges ranging from £2 to £10 depending on the casino’s banking partner. Currency conversion fees apply if you deposit in a currency other than GBP, typically around 2.5% above the exchange rate. Always review the payment terms section before choosing your deposit method.

How Do Casino Payment Limits Compare Between New Sites?

Minimum deposits at new UK casinos typically range from £5 to £10, with £10 being the industry standard. Maximum deposits vary significantly, from £5,000 to £50,000 per transaction depending on the operator. Withdrawal minimums usually sit at £10, while maximum withdrawal limits range from £5,000 to unlimited for high rollers.

New casinos often impose lower maximum withdrawal limits during the first few months of operation. This conservative approach helps manage financial risk while the operator establishes its payment infrastructure. Players who regularly win large amounts should verify withdrawal caps before committing to a new site.

Mobile Gaming Experience at New UK Casinos

Mobile optimisation is no longer optional for new casino sites. Over 70% of UK players access online casinos through smartphones or tablets, according to industry data. New operators typically launch with mobile-first designs, ensuring games and features work smoothly across all screen sizes.

Most new casinos use HTML5 technology, allowing instant play through mobile browsers without downloading apps. This approach eliminates storage concerns and ensures compatibility across iOS and Android devices. Some operators still offer dedicated apps, though these provide little advantage over optimised mobile websites.

Do New Casinos Offer Dedicated Mobile Apps?

Approximately 30% of new UK casinos launch with dedicated mobile apps alongside their mobile websites. These apps provide push notifications for promotions and faster access to favourite games. However, app development adds significant cost, leading many new operators to focus exclusively on browser-based play.

Progressive Web Apps are emerging as a middle ground, offering app-like experiences without requiring installation from app stores. These PWAs load faster than standard websites and can send push notifications. Several new casinos have adopted this technology to provide native app benefits while maintaining web accessibility.

Which New Casino Sites Excel at Mobile Game Selection?

Duelz Casino offers over 2,000 mobile-optimised games, making it a standout choice for smartphone players. MrQ Casino’s mobile platform loads in under 2 seconds on 4G connections, providing one of the snappiest experiences among new operators. Midnite Casino’s mobile site integrates sports betting seamlessly with casino games.

Game providers have invested heavily in mobile optimisation, with most modern slots designed for touch controls. Live casino games from Evolution Gaming stream in high definition on mobile devices, though a stable internet connection of at least 5 Mbps is recommended for uninterrupted play.

Customer Support at New Casino Sites

Effective customer support separates quality new casinos from mediocre ones. The UKGC requires all licensed operators to provide accessible customer service channels. Most new casinos offer live chat, email and telephone support, though response times vary significantly between operators.

Live chat has become the preferred support channel, with 80% of player queries now resolved through this medium. New casinos typically respond within 1 to 5 minutes during advertised support hours. Email support is slower, with response times ranging from 4 to 24 hours depending on the operator’s staffing levels.

How Responsive Is Live Chat at New Casino Sites?

Average live chat response times at new UK casinos have improved to under 3 minutes during peak hours. Duelz Casino and MrQ Casino both maintain response times below 60 seconds, setting the standard for the industry. Midnite Casino responds within 2 minutes, while Pub Casino averages 4 minutes during busy periods.

Quality of responses matters as much as speed. Support agents should provide accurate information about bonuses, payment methods and verification requirements. Many new casinos employ in-house support teams rather than outsourcing, resulting in better product knowledge and more personalised service.

What Support Hours Should Players Expect from New Casinos?

Most new UK casinos offer live chat support from 8 AM to midnight, seven days a week. Around 25% of operators provide 24/7 support, though this often involves overnight staffing through third-party providers. Email support typically operates during business hours, with responses arriving within 24 hours.

Telephone support has declined in popularity, with only 40% of new casinos offering phone lines. When available, phone support usually operates during reduced hours compared to live chat. Players who prefer verbal communication should verify phone support availability before registering.

Responsible Gambling Tools at New Casino Sites

New casino sites must provide comprehensive responsible gambling tools under UKGC requirements. Deposit limits allow players to cap their spending daily, weekly or monthly. Reality checks provide pop-up reminders showing how long you have been playing and your net losses during that session.

Time-out periods let players take breaks from gambling for 24 hours to 6 weeks. Self-exclusion through GAMSTOP blocks access to all participating UK casinos for a minimum of 6 months. The UKGC mandates that all licensed operators integrate with GAMSTOP, ensuring consistent protection across the market.

What Deposit Limits Can Players Set at New Casinos?

Deposit limits at new UK casinos can be set as low as £10 per day or as high as £10,000 per month. Players can choose different limits for different periods, such as a £50 daily limit combined with a £500 monthly cap. These limits apply across all games, including slots, table games and live dealer offerings.

Changes to deposit limits take effect immediately when you request a decrease. Increases require a cooling-off period of 24 hours to prevent impulsive decisions made during gambling sessions. Some operators also offer loss limits, which cap your net losses over a specified period.

How Does GAMSTOP Self-Exclusion Work at New Casinos?

GAMSTOP is a free service that allows players to exclude themselves from all UK-licensed online casinos. Registration takes approximately 5 minutes and requires basic personal details. Exclusion periods range from 6 months to 5 years, with extensions available at any time.

New casinos must check the GAMSTOP register before accepting any new customer. If you are registered for self-exclusion, the casino will reject your application. The UKGC has fined several operators for failing to conduct these checks, with penalties reaching £1.4 million in recent cases.

New Casino Sites vs Established Brands: Which Is Better?

New casino sites offer several advantages over established brands, including more generous bonuses and modern technology. However, established operators provide proven reliability and longer track records. Understanding these trade-offs helps you make an informed choice based on your priorities.

Established brands like 888 Casino and Betway have operated for over 20 years, weathering regulatory changes and economic downturns. New casinos lack this historical evidence of stability. Yet every established brand was once new, and the current crop of UK-licensed newcomers shows promising signs of longevity.

Factor New Casinos Established Brands
Welcome Bonuses More generous, up to 200% Conservative, typically 100%
Technology Latest software and features May run legacy platforms
Track Record Limited history 20+ years of operation
Withdrawal Speed Fast, often under 24 hours Varies, sometimes slower
Game Libraries Growing, 500 to 2,000 games Extensive, 2,000+ games
Loyalty Programs Simpler structures Complex VIP tiers

Are New Casinos Safer Than Established Ones in 2026?

Licensing status matters more than operational history when assessing safety. A new casino with a valid UKGC licence offers the same regulatory protection as an established brand. The Commission’s enforcement powers apply equally to all licensees, regardless of how long they have operated.

New casinos face additional scrutiny during their first years of operation. The UKGC conducts more frequent audits of recently licensed operators and responds swiftly to any compliance concerns. This regulatory attention provides an extra layer of protection for players who choose newer brands.

New Casino Sites: Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Know If a New Casino Site Is Legitimate?

Check the UK Gambling Commission public register using the licence number displayed on the casino website. Confirm the licence status is active and matches the brand you intend to play with. Legitimate casinos also display their company registration details and physical address.

What Is the Fastest Way to Verify My Casino Account?

Complete verification immediately after registration while your documents are easily accessible. Use digital verification where available, as this processes within minutes. Ensure your photo ID and proof of address match your registration details exactly to avoid rejection delays.

Can I Withdraw Winnings Without Completing Casino Verification?

No UK-licensed casino will process withdrawals until you complete identity verification. This requirement exists under the Money Laundering Regulations 2017 and applies universally to all operators. Attempting to withdraw without verification will result in your request being held until checks are complete.

How Much Can I Win at New Casino Sites Without Paying Tax?

UK players pay no tax on gambling winnings from licensed operators. This tax-free status applies regardless of whether you win £10 or £10 million. The casino operator pays gambling duties to HMRC, meaning your winnings reach you in full without deductions.

Final Verdict on New Casino Sites UK

New casino sites in 2026 offer compelling alternatives to established brands, provided you choose operators with valid UKGC licences. The five casinos highlighted in this guide have demonstrated strong game libraries, fast withdrawals and fair bonus terms. Each brings something different, from MrQ’s no-wagering approach to Duelz’s gamified progression system.

Complete your KYC verification immediately after registration to avoid withdrawal delays later. Set deposit limits that match your budget and use the responsible gambling tools available at every licensed operator. The UK market remains one of the safest regulated gambling environments globally, and new casinos are subject to the same rigorous standards as their established counterparts.

Before creating an account, verify the casino’s licence on the UKGC register and read the full terms and conditions, particularly regarding bonus wagering and withdrawal limits. A few minutes of due diligence protects your funds and ensures a positive experience with any new casino site you choose.

Remember that gambling should remain entertainment, not a source of income. If you or someone you know needs help with gambling-related issues, contact GamCare free on 0808 8020 133, available 24 hours a day. You can also register for self-exclusion through GAMSTOP at gamstop.co.uk to block access to all UK-licensed online casinos for a minimum of 6 months. The legal gambling age in the United Kingdom is 18 years old, and all operators featured in this guide strictly enforce this requirement.