New Dutch Gambling Regulations Aim to Curb Gambling-Related Harm

Deposit Limits for Players

A key feature of the new regulations is the introduction of deposit thresholds. Starting from the first day of each calendar month, players will have a net deposit limit of €700.

If a player exceeds this limit, they will not be able to make further deposits for the remainder of that month. For young adults aged 18-25, the deposit limit is set at €300.

These limits are automatically enforced each month to ensure players maintain responsible gambling habits.

Personal Deposit Limits Based on Income

Players can request higher deposit limits, but only if they provide proof of income or assets to the operator.

The operator may then increase the limit, using 30% of the player’s net income as a guideline for how much they can deposit.

This step requires careful review to confirm the player’s financial capacity for gambling at a higher level.

Operators must also investigate any player who reaches the established thresholds, ensuring they have the financial means to support their gambling activity.

Mandatory Personal Limits and Responsible Gambling Messaging

When players sign up with an online operator, they must now set a personal deposit limit.

Additionally, operators are required to take proactive steps to raise awareness of gambling-related risks and promote available help for at-risk players.

This includes contacting customers with monthly deposit limits of €350 or €150 for young adults, providing information about responsible gambling and highlighting the national self-exclusion program, Crucks.

As part of these efforts, players will also receive pop-up messages during gameplay every 30 minutes to remind them of the time spent gambling.

These messages will appear when players reach half of their pre-set playing time limit, encouraging them to consider taking breaks.

Industry Support for the Measures

The Licensed Dutch Online Gambling Providers (VNLOK) has voiced its support for the new regulations, with VNLOK chair Helma Lodders stating that the measures will help create a safer online gambling environment in the Netherlands.

“VNLOK members have already taken extra-legal measures to provide additional protection for players,” said Lodders, referencing the stricter playing limits for young adults and the Online Gambling Advertising Code.

Concerns Over the Impact on Operators

While the new regulations have received industry backing, there are concerns about the potential financial impact on operators.

Alan Littler, a local gambling lawyer, has warned that these changes could increase operational costs and reduce consumer spending in the Dutch gambling market.

Additionally, the Dutch Ministry of Justice and Security is set to publish its evaluation of the remote gambling regime by the end of October, which may result in further regulatory changes.

Tax Increase and the Risk of a Black Market

In addition to the new regulations, the Dutch government has approved a gambling tax increase.

From January 1, 2025, the tax rate will rise from 30.5% to 34.2% of gross gaming revenue (GGR), with a further increase to 37.3% planned for January 2026.

Trade bodies, including VNLOK, have raised concerns that these regulatory and tax changes may push players towards illegal gambling sites, as the higher thresholds could reduce the appeal of legal options.

Lodders emphasized the need for a balanced approach, warning that “well-intentioned measures can thus have a counterproductive effect” if over-regulation leads to an increase in illegal gambling.