Key Moments:
- On June 12, 2026, the Dutch government unveiled a major gambling reform plan. It bans advertising, restricts bonuses, and introduces strict deposit limits.
- The government also planned to raise the gambling age from 18 to 21. However, it has postponed this change due to concerns about illegal migration.
- Legal operators and Nederlandse Loterij raised concerns. They warn that stricter rules may push users toward illegal gambling sites.
Government Moves to Tighten Rules
The Dutch government has introduced a broad package of gambling reforms. State Secretary for Justice and Security Claudia van Bruggen announced the plan on June 12, 2026.
This marks a major shift since online gambling was legalized in October 2021. The proposals target advertising, bonuses, deposits, and enforcement.
In addition, regulators will get stronger tools to fight illegal gambling sites.
Details of the Proposed Restrictions
Licensed operators will no longer be allowed to run online gambling ads. They also cannot offer bonuses such as free bets for new users.
At the same time, the government will introduce a unified deposit limit. Users who want higher limits must pass an affordability check.
This check will review finances, missed payments, and any legal restrictions.
In addition, the Cruks self-exclusion system will change. Users will be able to opt out of gambling for unlimited periods.
Family members and financial guardians will also find it easier to register someone.
Focus on Consumer Protection
Van Bruggen stressed the need for action. She said online gambling use is rising, especially among young people.
As a result, more users face financial and addiction problems.
She added that stronger rules are needed to protect vulnerable groups.
Scope and Exceptions
The plan is strict, but it is not a full advertising ban. Operators can still advertise on their own websites.
Some search engine visibility will also remain allowed.
However, the rules will still sharply reduce public advertising exposure.
Minimum Age Increase Shelved
The government dropped its plan to raise the gambling age to 21. The idea still has support, but concerns changed the decision.
Officials fear younger users may shift to illegal platforms instead.
For now, the government will keep the age limit at 18. It will review the issue later.
Industry and Market Risks
Industry groups warn about unintended effects. They say stricter rules could strengthen illegal operators.
VNLOK says unlicensed gambling sites already target Dutch users at scale.
It also argues that removing ads and bonuses may push users away from legal platforms.
Nederlandse Loterij also opposes a full ad ban. The company says illegal operators will benefit most.
It estimates that illegal gambling already dominates advertising space. However, these figures are not official.
| Cruks Self-Exclusion Register | 2024 | Jan 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Registered Users | 61,000 | 111,534 |
Young adults remain a key concern. People aged 18 to 23 make up 22% of gambling accounts.
However, they represent only 9.3% of the adult population.
Next Legislative Steps
The government will now draft the proposals into law. It plans to include them in a broader strategy through 2030.
Parliament will debate the bill on June 24, 2026.
Lawmakers now face a key question. Will stricter rules protect users, or will they push more activity to illegal sites?
- Author
Daniel Williams
