With the establishment of clear laws and a regulated market, launching an online casino in the Netherlands is now a viable opportunity. Since 2021, casino operators have been legally permitted to offer online gambling services.

You’ll need the right gambling license, a secure platform, and full legal compliance. Casino software development is also a key piece, as your provider determines performance, security, and user experience. This guide will walk you through every essential step to help you launch and run a legal, successful casino.

The Remote Gambling Act, implemented in 2021, legalizes online gambling in the Netherlands, creating a competitive market for both local and EU-based operators.
Obtaining a gambling license requires compliance with strict regulations, including a fee of approximately EUR 45,000 and adherence to anti-money laundering policies.
Successful online casinos in the Netherlands must focus on market analysis, secure payment methods, and responsible gaming practices, including customer support and regulatory compliance.

Understanding the Dutch Online Gambling Market

The Dutch online gambling market has grown rapidly since the Remote Gambling Act took effect in 2021. In 2023, it generated €1.39 billion in gross gaming revenue, with online casinos making up over 75% of this total. By the end of the year, around 1.1 million accounts were active. This indicates a steady increase in legal participation.

For those wondering how to start an online casino business, understanding these market dynamics is crucial to establishing a successful venture.

Is Online Gambling Legal in the Netherlands?

Online gambling became legal in the Netherlands with the introduction of the Remote Gambling Act on April 1, 2021. This law allows licensed operators to offer legal online casinos, sports betting, and other games of chance. The Dutch Gaming Authority regulates all activities and ensures operators meet strict standards for safety and player protection.

Overview of the Dutch Gambling Market

The Dutch gambling market includes both online and offline operators, with online gambling gaining ground fast. As of 2023, total gambling revenue in the Netherlands reached approximately €4 billion. The online sector accounts for nearly 29% of that figure. This growth has been fueled by a digitally savvy population, widespread smartphone use, and secure payment options tailored to local preferences.

Popular casino games like slot machines, blackjack, roulette, and live dealer formats are central to Dutch online gambling platforms. Players show a strong interest in games that strike a balance between ease of use and immersive experiences. Holland Casino, the state-owned operator, remains influential in land-based gaming, but many private companies are reshaping the online casino landscape. Dutch players also engage with legal international online casino platforms.

Additionally, the market’s expansion has been supported by a robust regulatory framework and public confidence in licensed platforms. According to the Netherlands Gaming Authority, the average monthly loss per active online gambling customer in 2023 was approximately €160, translating to €1,920 per year. This figure only applies to active users, but it offers insight into player behavior in the Dutch online gambling market.

In the second half of 2023, around 5% of Dutch adults gambled online legally. The market is expected to continue growing steadily at an average rate of 8% annually. These trends reflect a developing and competitive market that continues to attract both players and licensed operators.

Brief History of Online Gambling in the Netherlands

The journey of online gambling in the Netherlands has been transformative. The iGaming sphere in the country remained largely unregulated for years, with most activity occurring on offshore platforms. The state-run Holland Casino held a monopoly on land-based gaming, while online options were technically illegal but widely accessed.

This changed with the passage of the Remote Gambling Act in 2019. The new law came into force in 2021, opening the market to licensed operators. This marked the official start of regulated online gambling in the Netherlands.

Online Gambling Regulations in the Netherlands

The Netherlands Gambling Authority (Kansspelautoriteit or KSA) regulates online gambling activities, overseeing licensing, compliance, and consumer protection.

To operate legally in the Netherlands, online gambling businesses must meet several requirements. These include strict anti-money laundering (AML) protocols, know-your-customer (KYC) procedures, and responsible gambling tools such as deposit limits and self-exclusion options. Operators must also register with the Central Exclusion Register (CRUKS) to ensure that self-excluded players are automatically blocked from accessing gambling services.

The Remote Gambling Decree supplements the act by outlining more specific licensing conditions. For example, operators must prove financial stability, ensure the fairness of their games, and appoint compliance officers. Advertising is also tightly regulated. Marketing must not be misleading or target vulnerable groups, such as minors. Untargeted ads have also been banned on TV and radio since 2023.

As of 2025, the gambling tax rate in the Netherlands is set at 34.2% of gross gaming revenue (GGR), with a planned increase to 37.8% in 2026. These changes were outlined in the Dutch government’s Tax Plan 2025.

Additionally, license holders are required to submit regular audit reports and demonstrate ongoing compliance with all laws. These strict regulations aim to create a safe, transparent, and competitive gambling environment in the Netherlands.

Legal Requirements and Licensing for Online Gambling Businesses in the Netherlands

Starting an online casino in the Netherlands requires a Dutch online gambling license. This section outlines the key legal steps required to obtain one of the world’s best gambling licenses. It covers how to apply, register your company, and stay compliant.

Obtaining a License

To operate in the Dutch online casino market, operators must first obtain a gaming license from the Netherlands Gambling Authority (Kansspelautoriteit, or KSA). The application process is strict and requires submitting detailed documentation in Dutch. This includes information on your corporate structure, business plan, AML procedures, responsible gambling policies, IT security, and financial guarantees.

Applicants must pay a non-refundable fee of €48,000 to begin the process. Once submitted, the KSA aims to issue a decision within 6 months. However, this timeframe may be extended to 12 months, depending on the case complexity. Notably, only about one in three applications are approved. This emphasizes the importance of completeness and compliance at every step.

Operators must also demonstrate financial readiness, including sufficient reserves to cover player funds. A financial guarantee of €830,000 may be required, depending on the risk profile. Additionally, platforms must connect to CRUKS (the national exclusion register) and use certified software audited by KSA-recognized testing bodies.

To better understand international standards and how Dutch licensing compares, review this guide on how to secure a gambling license. This can help you benchmark the Dutch process against other respected jurisdictions.

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Registering a Company

Before registering a gambling company in the Netherlands, you need to set up a legal entity within the EU or EEA. This is usually a private limited company (BV) which must be registered with the Dutch Trade Register (Kamer van Koophandel) and obtain a VAT number.

Foreign investors are permitted, but all applicants must have a permanent office or authorized representative within the EU/EEA. Additional requirements include appointing key personnel such as a compliance officer and ensuring transparency in ownership and control. You can submit your documentation in Dutch or accompany it with certified translations.

Compliance

Compliance is a continuous requirement for licensed online casino operators in the Netherlands. You must adhere to strict guidelines regarding responsible gambling, anti-money laundering (AML) measures, and player verification procedures. This includes actively monitoring user behavior, setting mandatory deposit limits, and providing self-exclusion tools.

Additionally, all platforms must stay connected to the CRUKS (Central Exclusion Register). Online casinos operating in the Netherlands are also required to submit regular reports and undergo independent audits to demonstrate ongoing compliance with Dutch gambling laws. Any failure to meet these standards can result in fines, license suspension, or full revocation by the Dutch Gambling Authority.

In addition to the above, in 2024, the Dutch government introduced mandatory monthly deposit limits:

€700 per operator for players aged 25 and older
€300 for players aged 18 to 24

If a player wishes to exceed these limits, operators must conduct affordability checks, which often require proof of income.

Building a Successful Online Casino Business in the Netherlands

Building a successful online casino in the Netherlands requires more than just a license. Operators need a well-researched strategy, a solid technical foundation, and strong financial planning. This section outlines how to launch and grow a licensed remote gambling company in this competitive market.

1. Market Analysis

Operators should conduct a detailed analysis of the Dutch online gambling market. This includes understanding player preferences, competitor offerings, and seasonal behavior patterns. Most Dutch players prefer online casino games that are mobile-friendly, fast-paced, and easy to understand. Slot machine games and live dealer games are good examples.

It’s also important to evaluate which marketing channels resonate most with local audiences. Dutch consumers value privacy and transparency, so advertising strategies should reflect trust, safety, and compliance. By understanding the market’s size, trends, and demographics, operators can tailor their product offerings and stand out in a competitive space.

2. Budgeting and Financial Planning

Effective budgeting is essential for launching and surviving in the online casino industry. Online gaming operators must factor in upfront costs, including licensing fees (€48,000), platform development, hosting, game certification, marketing, and regulatory integration. Ongoing costs include staff salaries, software licensing, compliance audits, and marketing.

It is also important to plan for the gambling tax rate. Without proper financial planning, these obligations can quickly affect profitability. Operators should maintain reserve funds and establish scalable revenue models to support long-term growth in the tightly regulated Dutch market.

3. Choosing a Reliable Software Provider

Your software provider has a direct impact on the immediate and long-term success of your platform. Whether you’re building from scratch or using a white-label solution, your provider must offer a stable, scalable, and customizable system. Look for partners who offer a diverse range of casino games, live dealer integration, multilingual support, and responsible gaming tools.

Technical reliability is also crucial. Downtime, lag, or failed payments can damage player trust and regulatory standing. Before committing, review case studies, uptime guarantees, and integration support. To get started, consult a reputable software development company that specializes in iGaming solutions.

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4. Creating a Website or App: Design and Development

User experience is everything in a competitive market like the Netherlands. Since your platform’s design is the first impression players get, it must be intuitive, fast, and fully responsive across all devices. Prioritize a clean interface, fast-loading pages, and easy access to games, payment options, and support.

Security is just as important. Strong encryption, secure logins, and GDPR-compliant data handling are essential. For full market access, your platform should also integrate with Dutch tools, such as CRUKS, and offer localized payment systems.

Fortunately, you don’t need to worry about how to start an online gambling website or how to start a casino app alone. The right development team will help you build successfully.

5. Selecting Games and Game Providers

The games you offer can make or break your online casino. In the Netherlands, players prefer a mix of traditional casino games like blackjack and roulette, fast-paced slot machines, and interactive live dealer experiences. You should endeavor to combine variety and quality.

Partner only with licensed, trusted game providers whose titles meet Dutch regulatory requirements. All games must be tested and certified for fairness by approved labs. Also consider mobile compatibility, game load times, and the ability to offer bonuses or promotions linked to gameplay. Remember that the right game portfolio keeps players engaged and builds long-term loyalty.

6. Payment Methods and Transaction Security

Reliable and secure payment systems are essential for maintaining player trust and ensuring operational stability. In the Dutch market, popular options include iDEAL, credit cards, e-wallets, and direct bank transfers. Offering a range of localized, fast, and low-fee methods can improve both player satisfaction and retention.

Online gambling operators must also ensure all transactions are encrypted, GDPR-compliant, and processed through certified gateways. Implement fraud detection tools, transaction monitoring, and KYC procedures to protect your business and meet regulatory standards. Transparent, secure payments not only build player confidence but also help prevent financial and legal issues.

Launching and Operating an Online Casino in the Netherlands

After building your online casino, you need to figure out how to launch and operate it successfully. Operators must ensure regulatory compliance, provide exceptional customer support, and effectively manage security, transactions, and promotions. This section outlines how to operate your platform sustainably in the Dutch market.

Ensuring Security and Responsible Gaming

Running a successful online casino in the Netherlands means protecting both your platform and your players. Operators must implement strong cybersecurity protocols, including data encryption, secure payment channels, and user authentication systems. These technical safeguards are critical for maintaining platform stability and user trust.

Responsible gaming is another thing you shouldn’t overlook. Platforms are expected to detect high-risk behavior and respond with timely interventions to prevent gambling addiction. This includes offering customizable play limits, displaying session timers, and providing access to support services. Players should be able to take breaks, self-exclude, or adjust limits directly within their account settings.

Beyond legal obligations, visible responsible gaming tools contribute to a safer, more sustainable gaming environment. Prioritizing these features not only helps with compliance but also enhances long-term player satisfaction and brand reputation.

Customer Support and Retention

Reliable customer support will help you build trust and retain players in the Dutch online gambling market. Endeavor to offer responsive, 24/7 assistance through live chat, email, and preferably a local phone line. Support should be available in Dutch, with multilingual options for broader accessibility.

However, retention strategies go beyond solving problems. Loyalty programs, personalized offers, and timely bonus incentives help keep players engaged and motivated. Most successful platforms also use CRM tools to segment users and automate tailored promotions based on player behavior.

For transparency, make refund policies, bonus terms, and dispute resolution options easily accessible and understandable. When users feel supported and respected, they’re more likely to stay loyal and recommend the platform to others.

Financial Management and Performance Monitoring

Effective financial management helps you maintain stability and ensures long-term growth. Dutch gambling regulations require operators to separate player funds from operational accounts and maintain sufficient reserves to cover liabilities. You must also keep detailed financial records and submit regular reports to the regulatory body.

Operators should actively monitor key performance indicators (KPIs), including GGR, net profit, player retention rates, and transaction success rates. Analytics tools will help you identify player trends, optimize game offerings, and improve your marketing ROI.

Schedule audits and internal reviews regularly to ensure full compliance and operational efficiency. With consistent monitoring and financial discipline, your platform will be better prepared to adapt to market changes and regulatory updates.

Marketing and Promotion Strategies for Online Casino Business in the Netherlands

Promoting an online casino in the Netherlands requires a careful balance between visibility and regulatory compliance. Untargeted ads have been banned on TV, radio, and outdoor media since 2023 due to strict advertising rules. Given this, online operators must avoid content that targets minors or suggests gambling as a financial solution.

However, effective marketing is still possible. You can still reach your target audiences organically through SEO, affiliate networks, email campaigns, and content marketing. Partnering with approved affiliates allows you to leverage their traffic while maintaining compliance with Dutch standards.

Additionally, retention-focused strategies like loyalty programs, cashback bonuses, and free spins remain popular, but they must be transparent. Ensure bonus terms are clearly communicated and avoid misleading claims. Building trust through ethical promotion satisfies regulators and boosts long-term player loyalty.

The Future of Online Gambling in the Netherlands

In the coming years, the Dutch online gambling market is poised for continued growth driven by increasing internet access, mobile usage, and evolving consumer preferences. According to Statista, the online gambling market in the Netherlands is projected to expand at an annual growth rate (CAGR 2025–2029) of 5.8%, fueled by technological advancements and a regulatory environment that promotes responsible gaming.

Additionally, technological innovations such as live dealer games, virtual reality experiences, and AI-powered personalization are likely to enhance user engagement and satisfaction. As competition intensifies, licensed operators who prioritize transparency, innovation, and compliance will have a distinct advantage.

The Dutch gambling regulator continues to monitor and update policies to ensure a safe and fair gaming environment. Future regulatory changes may include stricter advertising rules, enhanced affordability checks, and more comprehensive player protection measures. Staying agile and responsive to these shifts will be key to long-term success in the Dutch market.

Open an Online Casino in the Netherlands with CrustLab!

Launching an online casino in the Netherlands isn’t just about having the right idea; you need the right execution. That means technical excellence, deep industry insight, and a platform built to perform. CrustLab specializes in iGaming development, supporting online Dutch casinos and sportsbooks with custom software solutions.

Our services include frontend and backend development, mobile and web platforms, and full product design. We help you bring compliant, high-performing iGaming platforms to life. Contact us if you’re ready to enter one of Europe’s most promising iGaming markets! We’re ready to build with you.

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