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Netherlands Gaming License: Compliance Guide

Author : Micheal Klein
Date: December 27, 2025

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Operating in the Dutch gambling market requires more than holding a license, with strict supervision and ongoing compliance obligations. This guide focuses on post-licensing requirements and how operators can remain compliant over time. It is designed to help businesses manage regulatory risk and ensure operational stability. SDLC Corp supports operators through regulatory guidance, compliance alignment, and technology readiness across regulated gambling markets Explore how the Alderney Gaming License compares in regulatory structure.

Netherlands Gambling Law and Regulatory Framework

Overview of gambling industry trends and structure in the Netherlands

Dutch gambling activities are governed by national legislation that defines which games are permitted, how they may be offered, and what safeguards must be in place. Netherlands gaming law applies to both land-based and online gambling, with enhanced requirements for remote gambling. Learn more about the licensing environment in Antigua and Barbuda.

Legal Basis of Dutch Gambling Regulation

The law distinguishes between games of chance and other promotional or skill-based activities. Products involving chance and monetary stakes generally fall under Netherlands gambling law and require strict compliance controls.

Risk-Based Regulatory Approach

Dutch online gambling regulations follow a risk-based model. Higher-risk products such as online casino games and sports betting are subject to stronger player protection measures, stricter AML controls, and enhanced reporting obligations. Operators comparing multiple jurisdictions often review European licensing frameworks to understand how compliance intensity differs across markets.

Role of the Dutch Gambling Regulator (KSA)

Oversight of the Dutch gambling market is carried out by the Kansspelautoriteit, an independent authority operating under the Ministry of Justice and Security.

Responsibilities of the Kansspelautoriteit

The regulator is responsible for:

Supervising licensed gambling operators Monitoring compliance with Dutch gambling laws
Monitoring compliance with Dutch gambling laws

How the KSA Evaluates Compliance

KSA gambling compliance is assessed through:

Risk-based audits and supervisory reviews
Analysis of operational and player data
Monitoring of advertising, AML, and duty-of-care practices

This means compliance is measured continuously, not just at fixed review points.

Also Read: How to Secure a Gambling License for Online Casino Apps?

What Activities Fall Under the Netherlands Gaming License

Correct classification of gambling activities is a core compliance requirement.

Definition of Games of Chance Under Dutch Law

A game is considered a game of chance when chance, rather than skill, determines the outcome. This classification determines whether Netherlands gaming license requirements apply.

Types of Regulated Online Gambling Activities

Activities typically subject to Netherlands online gambling compliance include:

Online casino games (slots and table games)
Betting on sporting events and outcomes
Certain peer-to-peer and bingo formats

Operators operating across multiple jurisdictions often compare jurisdiction-specific licensing models to ensure products are structured correctly.

Core Compliance Requirements for License Holders

Dutch gambling compliance requirements extend across governance, operations, and internal controls.

Governance and Internal Controls

Licensed operators must maintain:

Clear management accountability
Defined compliance roles and escalation processes
Documented internal policies and procedures

Operational and Integrity Standards

Operators are expected to ensure:

Fair and transparent gaming systems
Integrity of betting markets
Oversight of outsourced service providers

While licensing establishes market entry, ongoing regulatory responsibility remains with the operator, regardless of outsourcing arrangements.

AML and KYC Obligations in the Netherlands Gambling Market

Preventing financial crime is a cornerstone of Dutch gambling regulation.Licensed operators must implement strong AML and KYC controls to verify player identities, monitor transactions, and detect suspicious activity. These measures help ensure market integrity while preventing money laundering, fraud, and misuse of gambling platforms.

Anti-Money Laundering Requirements

AML requirements in Netherlands gambling include:

Risk-based customer due diligence
Continuous transaction monitoring
Detection of unusual betting or payment patterns

KYC and Player Verification Obligations

KYC requirements for the Netherlands gaming license require operators to:

Verify player identities before participation
Maintain accurate customer records
Apply enhanced checks for high-risk players

Operators entering regulated markets often assess application-stage requirements separately from compliance obligations.

Also Read: Regulatory Compliance Challenges in the iGaming Industry

Responsible Gambling and Duty of Care Obligations

Responsible gambling is a key requirement under Dutch gambling regulations. Licensed operators must monitor player behaviour, identify signs of risky play, and take timely action to prevent harm. Duty of care obligations focus on protecting players through intervention measures, access restrictions, and support for exclusion mechanisms.

Player Monitoring and Intervention

Responsible gambling in the Netherlands requires operators to:

Monitor player behavior continuously
Identify indicators of excessive or harmful play
Intervene early when risks arise

Player Protection Measures

Duty of care Netherlands gambling obligations include:

Implementing player protection tools
Restricting access for at-risk individuals
Supporting national exclusion mechanisms

Advertising, Marketing, and Player Communication Rules

Advertising in the Netherlands is permitted, but it is subject to strict regulatory controls. Licensed operators must ensure that marketing communications are factual, proportionate, and do not mislead players or encourage excessive participation. These rules also require strong protection for minors and vulnerable groups, while promoting responsible gambling objectives at all times.

Advertising Restrictions in the Netherlands

Advertising rules Netherlands gambling prohibit:

Misleading claims about winning chances
Encouragement of excessive participation
Aggressive or intrusive promotions

Protection of Vulnerable Groups

Marketing communications must:

Avoid targeting minors or vulnerable players
Be factual and proportionate
Support responsible gambling objectives

Technical, Data Protection, and IT Compliance

Technical and IT compliance is essential to ensure the security and reliability of gambling operations in the Netherlands. Licensed operators must maintain robust IT systems, protect player data in line with data protection laws, and ensure secure handling of transactions and personal information. These requirements help safeguard system integrity, prevent data breaches, and support regulatory oversight.

Gaming System and IT Security Requirements

Operators must maintain:

Secure and auditable gaming systems
Protection against manipulation or data breaches
Ongoing system monitoring

GDPR and Data Protection Obligations

Data protection Netherlands gambling requirements include:

Lawful processing of personal data
Secure storage and access controls
Compliance with GDPR standards

Ongoing Compliance, Monitoring, and Reporting Obligations

Compliance does not end once operations begin under a Dutch gambling license. Operators are required to submit periodic regulatory reports, maintain accurate compliance documentation, and update internal controls as regulations evolve. Ongoing cooperation with audits and regulatory reviews is essential to demonstrate continued adherence to Dutch gambling requirements.

Common Compliance Mistakes in the Netherlands Gambling Market

Regulatory enforcement actions frequently reveal recurring issues:

Weak AML or transaction monitoring systems
Insufficient responsible gambling interventions
Non-compliant advertising practices
Failure to update policies following regulatory changes

Netherlands Gambling Compliance Checklist

A practical Netherlands gambling compliance checklist includes:

Correct classification of gambling activities
Fully implemented AML and KYC systems
Active duty-of-care and player protection tools
Advertising aligned with Dutch regulations
GDPR-compliant data protection controls
Ongoing monitoring and reporting processes

Summary Table: Netherlands Gaming License

Aspect	Details
Regulator	Kansspelautoriteit (KSA)
Legal Basis	Remote Gambling Act Netherlands
License Validity	5 Years
Application Fee	€48,000 (approx.)
Tax Rate	29.5% on Gross Gaming Revenue
Key Areas of Regulation	Compliance, Security, Advertising, Fairness
Renewal Requirement	Full audit, compliance confirmation

Conclusion

Applying for a Malaysia Gambling License demands significant preparation, local knowledge, and a strong understanding of regulatory requirements. By navigating the legal framework carefully and maintaining compliance throughout the process, operators can build a legitimate business. To support long-term success, having a reliable technology foundation is equally important. SDLC Corp provides end-to-end assistance, from licensing and regulatory compliance to advanced iGaming software development services, enabling operators to launch, manage, and scale their gaming platforms with confidence and full regulatory alignment.