How to Start an Online Casino in Finland? Gambling Regulations in Finland

Thinking about launching an online casino in Finland? With the country preparing to shift from a state-run monopoly to a licensing model that will accept applications from 2026 and launch in 2027, now is the ideal time to get ahead. This regulatory overhaul will unlock new possibilities for private operators ready to enter a tech-savvy market.

However, success in this space goes beyond licensing. It requires deep expertise in casino software development, regulatory compliance, and user-focused innovation. In this guide, you will learn all you need to take advantage of this window of opportunity.

• Finland’s current gambling regulations, governed by Veikkaus Oy, will transition to a licensing system with the market for private operators opening at the start of 2027.
• Understanding the legal framework, including compliance with the Finnish Lotteries Act and obtaining necessary licenses, is crucial for establishing an online casino in Finland.
• Key factors for building a successful online casino include strategic planning, selecting reliable software providers, offering diverse game options, and ensuring secure payment methods.

Understanding the Finnish Online Gambling Market

The Finnish gambling market is about to undergo a major shift. For decades, the state-owned Veikkaus Oy has held exclusive rights to operate gambling services. However, growing pressure from the EU and concerns about player safety have prompted Finland to move toward an open, competitive licensing system that is set to accept applications in 2026 and go live at the beginning of 2027.

If you’re exploring how to start an online casino business, now is the time to understand the nuances of the Finnish market. It has strong demand, high digital penetration, and players eager for more diverse options than what the monopoly offered. That makes early preparation essential.

Is Online Gambling Legal in Finland?

Online gambling is legal in Finland, but only under a monopoly model. Veikkaus Oy, a state-owned company, holds exclusive rights to provide gambling services, including online casinos, sports betting, and lotteries. All others, including foreign companies, are technically prohibited from marketing or operating within the country.

However, enforcement has been limited, and many Finnish players still access offshore platforms. This grey area will be addressed with Finland’s new licensing model, which is expected to go live in 2027. At that point, private operators will be able to enter the market legally.

Overview of the Finnish Gambling Market

The Finnish gambling monopoly has offered limited local innovation, and as a result, players have increasingly turned to offshore casinos for more variety and higher returns. A DLA Piper report noted that between €520 and €590 million of Finnish gambling spend happened outside the state system. In other words, hundreds of millions were flowing to unregulated sites overseas. This leakage is a key reason why Finland is reforming its laws to capture that revenue in regulated channels.

Despite the monopoly’s effect, the Finnish gambling industry is sizeable. Estimates put the total gambling turnover at well over €2 billion. About 60% of Veikkaus’s revenue (€1.03 billion in 2023) comes from online casino games, and forecasts expect digital gambling to keep growing. For example, market analysts predict that by 2029, the online segment alone could reach roughly €1.52 billion in revenue. This points to a 5% annual growth rate.

The Finnish market’s growth is driven by its tech-savvy, affluent population. Finland had about 5.6 million people in 2024, and almost everyone has internet access. 80% of the population was active on social media in early 2024. Platforms like Facebook (3.86 million Finnish) and Instagram (2.6 million) are widely used. So, it is no surprise that Finnish gamblers tend to prefer online casino games. About 44% of adults placed bets or gambled online in 2023, compared to 24% who only gambled offline.

Overall, the Finnish gambling industry is poised for change. This transition is expected to increase competition and choice for players, while the state maintains oversight and harm prevention measures. Foreign gambling operators are monitoring Finland’s reforms closely, as it will become one of the last major Western European markets to open up.

Brief History of Online Gambling in Finland

Finland’s state-run gambling began with lotteries. In 1938, RAY was established to manage slot machines and table games. In 2017, Finland merged its three main gambling organizations (RAY, Fintoto, and Veikkaus betting agency) into Veikkaus Ltd. However, pressure from the European Union and rising offshore competition led to regulatory reforms. By 2026, Finland will align with other EU states by transitioning to a licensing model.

Online Gambling Regulations in Finland

Finland’s online gambling laws are currently defined by the Lottery Act. Under this framework, only Veikkaus Oy is authorized to provide and market gambling services legally within the country. Sections of Finland’s Criminal Code impose penalties for persons facilitating illegal gambling. For instance, organizing an illegal lottery or performing any act considered gambling marketing without permission is punishable by fines or up to two years’ imprisonment. Similar rules apply to illegal sports betting or online casino offerings.

According to the Lotteries Act, any gambling advertisement must be moderate in scope and cannot target minors or other vulnerable groups. All promotions are also required to discourage underage gambling and provide information about gambling control tools and help services for problem gambling. Essentially, advertising must only steer demand to legally sanctioned games and promote responsible gaming.

Enforcement is managed by the National Police Board. The board oversees compliance and imposes penalties for unlawful gambling operations. It has the authority to:

• Block access to unlicensed gambling websites
• Restrict payment processing to offshore operators
• Monitor advertising and marketing for violations.

This strict control has limited player choice and pushed many Finns to offshore platforms licensed in jurisdictions like Malta or Curacao. As a result, the grey market has flourished. Finland plans to implement a licensing model to address these challenges by 2026. This will allow online gambling companies to legally enter the online gambling industry, subject to:

• Licensing fees
• Regulatory audits
• Responsible gambling measures
• Anti-money laundering (AML) protocols.

The goal is to increase oversight, reduce gambling harm, prevent money laundering, and align Finland with other EU member states that have adopted competitive licensing systems.

Legal Requirements and Licensing for Online Gambling Business in Finland

As of now, Finland does not issue local licenses for online casino and betting services. Hence, private operators often turn to regulatory bodies like the Malta Gaming Authority and the Curaçao Gaming Control Board. These bodies offer one of the best gaming licenses and are known for their favorable tax conditions and regulatory environments.

In practice, foreign online gambling sites can legally accept Finnish players as long as they do not actively advertise in Finland. However, foreign operators must still comply with Finnish law where applicable. Below are key steps and considerations for the licensing and legal setup.

Obtaining a License

Finland’s planned licensing model will allow private operators to apply for Finnish gambling licenses under new rules. According to draft legislation, operators can start applying for B2C gambling licenses in early 2026. The licensing application will likely require detailed documentation, including company background checks, proof of financial stability, AML policies, and technology audits.

Additionally, operators will have to pay licensing fees and possibly deposit guarantees. The proposed tax rate on licensed operators is 22% of gross gaming revenue, which should be factored into financial planning. In the interim, operators should focus on understanding how to secure a gambling license from a reputable international regulatory body.

Registering a Company

If you plan to operate formally in Finland, you need to register a Finnish limited company under the Limited Liability Companies Act. This involves preparing articles of association, appointing a local board, and filing with the Finnish Patent and Registration Office (PRH).

Many startups also choose to establish their gaming company in another European country and then register a local branch or representative office in Finland. The choice depends on your licensing strategy. A Finland-registered company for operators with a Finnish license. But if you use an EU license like Malta’s, you might operate from Malta but still need a VAT registration if marketing services in Finland.

Compliance

Compliance is an ongoing priority for a successful gambling company. Operators must implement AML and KYC protocols, ensure GDPR compliance, and connect to exclusion registers. Responsible gambling tools, like deposit limits and self-exclusion, are also mandatory in most jurisdictions and will be a part of Finnish rules. As the market transitions to licensing, adopting these standards early builds trust with regulators and customers alike.

Building a Successful Online Casino Business in Finland

Launching an online casino in Finland goes beyond legal prep. It requires careful planning and execution. Below are the key steps to build a successful operation.

1. Market Analysis

A comprehensive market analysis is the foundation of any successful online gaming venture. Start by focusing on your target players, who are mostly men aged 30 to 59. You should also check out the most popular games. Currently, online slots and table games bring in the most revenue. You should also study your competitors and look for gaps.

2. Budgeting and Financial Planning

Effective financial planning ensures the sustainability and profitability of your online casino. Anticipate expenses related to obtaining a Finnish gambling license, including application fees, annual supervision fees, and a 22% GGR tax. You should also allocate funds for software development, staffing, customer support, and other operational needs.

Additionally, budget for marketing campaigns, affiliate partnerships, and promotional activities to attract and retain players. For compliance and security, invest in anti-money laundering (AML) measures, responsible gambling tools, and cybersecurity protocols.

3. Choosing a Reliable Software Provider

Your casino software provider can make or break your business. Partner with a software development company that meets Finnish regulatory requirements and supports responsible gambling tools, secure payment systems, and seamless game integration.

It should also offer a broad selection of high-quality games, reliable uptime, and customization options. Strong post-launch support is equally essential. Your provider must be capable of adapting to evolving compliance needs, user feedback, and performance analytics.

4. Creating a Website or App: Design and Development

The user experience starts with your website or app. Finnish players expect fast, smooth, and intuitive interfaces that work seamlessly on mobile devices. A slow platform will make you lose players.

Your design must also prioritize clear navigation, attractive visuals, and strong branding. Security is just as essential. SSL encryption, multi-factor authentication, and regular vulnerability testing help build trust and ensure compliance with data protection laws. Whether you are thinking of how to start an online gambling website or how to start a casino app, these are things you can’t afford to overlook.

5. Selecting Games and Game Providers

You need a broad game library to attract and retain Finnish punters. The most popular casino games in Finland include slots, poker, blackjack, and live dealer games. Aside from launching with these games, you should regularly refresh and add new titles to keep the offering exciting.

Many online casinos use a game aggregator solution that connects to multiple content providers. Joining this trend will allow you to select the best gambling games from each supplier. Localized content, such as Finnish-language games or regionally inspired themes, can also boost your casino’s appeal.

6. Payment Methods and Transaction Security

Frictionless payments are an essential attribute of a reputable casino. You can achieve this by offering a wide range of reliable deposit and withdrawal options, including credit & debit cards, e-wallets, and direct bank transfers. Modern casinos support cryptocurrency transactions to make their platform more appealing.

Whichever methods you choose, take security seriously. Employ AML and KYC protocols to ensure regulatory compliance and fraud protection. You should also encrypt and monitor all financial data. To build trust, be transparent on fees, withdrawal times, and limits.

Launching and Operating an Online Casino in Finland

Launching and operating an online casino in Finland is serious business. To ensure your platform runs smoothly, you must ensure all legal and operational foundations are in place.

Ensuring Security and Responsible Gaming

Under the upcoming licensing system, operators will be required to implement tools such as mandatory identity verification, deposit limits, and self-exclusion options. These aren’t optional features, but legal obligations aimed at reducing the harm done by platforms that bear a particular gambling risk.

Security protocols must also be rigorous. End-to-end encryption, secure login systems, and regular penetration testing are essential for protecting user data and maintaining regulatory compliance. Routine security audits will help identify vulnerabilities before they escalate.

Customer Support and Retention

Reliable customer support maintains player satisfaction and encourages loyalty. Online casinos offer support via live chat, email, phone, and social media platforms. To be effective, customer support must be fast, helpful, and available around the clock.

Though we recommend multilingual support, Finnish and Swedish are the most essential. You should also have a comprehensive FAQ in Finnish on rules, bonuses, and account management.

Financial Management and Performance Monitoring

A successful casino business needs financial transparency and continuous performance tracking. Operators must monitor key metrics like gross gaming revenue (GGR), player churn, average deposit size, and return on marketing spend. These insights inform decision-making and reveal trends that can guide operational or promotional adjustments.

Regular financial reporting and compliance audits are also part of Finnish licensing obligations. So, systems must be in place for detailed tracking and recordkeeping. Long-term profitability depends on efficient cash flow, smart reinvestment, and early detection of any risk exposure.

Marketing and Promotion Strategies for Online Casino Business in Finland

An effective marketing strategy is critical for scaling an online casino in Finland. With a competitive market and strict regulations on advertising, operators must be both creative and compliant in their approach.

Understanding your audience is key. Finland has one of the highest internet penetration rates in Europe and a population that’s highly receptive to digital experiences. This makes data-driven, culturally tailored marketing essential. Campaigns should consider not only player demographics but also psychographics, i.e., what motivates users to engage, deposit, and return.

Social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube offer valuable reach due to their high usage among Finnish consumers. Live streams, tutorials, and behind-the-scenes content can engage potential players and humanize the brand. However, operators must avoid targeting minors or high-risk audiences and must include clear messages promoting responsible gambling.

Furthermore, email marketing is a powerful retention tool when used correctly. Personalized offers, game announcements, and account updates can keep users active and informed. Just ensure consent is obtained and GDPR compliance is maintained. Ultimately, successful marketing in Finland will rely on cultural sensitivity and regulatory alignment.

The Future of Online Gambling in Finland

The outlook for online gambling operations in Finland is optimistic. Finland’s transition to a licensing model is expected to broaden the market and spur growth. One estimate projected that total market revenues could grow significantly in the years following the 2027 market opening, as private operators enter. The online casino industry, in particular, is expected to have a 5.1% annual growth through 2029.

Opening the market will bring more competition and innovation. Finnish players should benefit from new game offerings, promotions, and technology. Finnish regulators aim to balance this by ensuring operators play safely. The expected outcome is a larger tax base for Finland and better consumer protection.

It’s anticipated that liberalization will convert many casual gray-market gamblers into customers of licensed casinos. For example, a significant portion of the current black-market spend of €500 million may flow into legal operators. The government projects that hundreds of thousands of Finns will gain legal, protected access to a wider range of gambling and casino games after 2026.

Open an Online Casino in Finland with CrustLab!

Your dream of setting up your own online casino in Finland is no longer a distant ambition. With the licensing model set to open for applications in 2026 and launch in 2027, private operators will finally have a legal pathway into a market bursting with potential. But while the door is opening, the threshold remains high.

To take advantage of this shift, operators must act strategically. Success will depend on your ability to build a compliant, secure, and engaging platform tailored to local online casino regulations and player preferences. That’s where CrustLab can help. As experts in iGaming development, we support casino businesses in launching and scaling platforms that succeed in the global online gambling market. We offer custom frontend solutions, secure backend architecture, and seamless game integrations tailored to your business goals.

Contact us today to get started!

Sources

1. https://www.statista.com/outlook/amo/gambling/finland
2. https://sbcnews.co.uk/europe/2025/04/09/finland-igaming-market
3. https://www.egba.eu/resource-post/online-gambling-shares-of-national-gambling-markets-in-europe