Finland Opens iGaming Licenses 2027

Finland’s gambling authorities have confirmed that online casino and betting license applications will begin processing from March 1, 2027, marking the end of Veikkaus’ monopoly on these verticals and opening the high-value Nordic market to licensed private operators. The full market launch is scheduled for July 1, 2027, following parliamentary approval of the licensing reform in late 2025.

This partial liberalization targets online slots, table games, bingo, and sports betting while retaining lotteries and land-based gaming machines under state control. The reform prioritizes stronger player protection, reduced offshore leakage, and new tax revenue through a regulated competitive framework.

Key Takeaways

• License applications open March 1, 2027; first operators expected to go live from July 2027.
• Strict compliance, responsible gambling tools, and Finnish-specific taxation are required for all entrants.
• Creates a significant entry opportunity for EU-licensed operators in one of Europe’s highest per-capita online gambling markets.

The Finnish market reform is among the most important upcoming changes in European iGaming. After years of discussion, the government finalized the transition to a licensing model in December 2025. From March 2027, the regulator will accept B2C applications for online casino and betting products, with B2B supplier licenses to follow. Operators must meet rigorous standards, including AML, age verification, integration with self-exclusion, deposit limits, and transparent RNG certification.

The competitive landscape will shift dramatically. Currently, Finnish players frequently use offshore sites licensed by MGA or Curaçao despite restrictions. Regulated entry should channel a substantial portion of that activity back to licensed platforms, boosting innovation, game variety, and player safety features.

International operators already active in Sweden, Denmark, or other Nordic-regulated markets are best positioned to apply quickly, potentially launching localized brands with Finnish-language support, local payment methods, and tailored responsible gambling measures. The reform mirrors successful transitions in Sweden (2019) and the Netherlands (2021), where regulated competition increased market transparency and tax yield.

Industry stakeholders should prepare now for detailed application guidelines, licensing fees, technical requirements, and the forthcoming gambling tax rate on gross gaming revenue.

Sources: Ministry of the Interior Finland, Nordia Law, Hannes Snellman