For online operators to offer gambling and betting services, they must obtain a licence from the authorities. However, there are no locally-issued licences in Finland because of the country’s monopoly system. Veikkaus is the state-owned company with exclusive rights to offer gambling services to players in mainland Finland. Due to this limitation, many gamblers prefer visiting offshore casinos with licences in the following jurisdictions.
Online Gambling in Finland
People who want to engage in online gambling in Finland need to understand the current legal framework. Several legislative changes have taken place since the establishment of the Finnish Lotteries Act. While Veikkaus Oy is the state monopoly that regulates gambling, the legal system is expected to undergo significant changes from the beginning of 2026. We will discuss Finland's gambling history, regulation, and gaming options in this guide.
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Built by market experts hosting events since 2023, with our first event in Riga, Latvia gathering over 300 top level iGaming industry executives, Ace Alliance is able to provide you with reliable information from direct interaction with experts and leaders in the sector.
Built by market experts hosting events since 2023, with our first event in Riga, Latvia gathering over 300 top level iGaming industry executives, Ace Alliance is able to provide you with reliable information from direct interaction with experts and leaders in the sector.
Best Sites for Online Gambling in Finland
Golden Panda
200% up to €5000
Payout:
Within 24 hours
Curaçao
18+ | Gamble responsibly GambleAware.org | T&C’s apply
Billybets
100% up to €500
Payout:
Within 24 hours
PAGCOR
18+ | Gamble responsibly GambleAware.org | T&C’s apply
Slotit
15% up to €2000 Cashback
Payout:
Instant
Curaçao
18+ | Gamble responsibly GambleAware.org | T&C’s apply
Hugo Casino
100% up to €150
Payout:
Within 5 days
Curaçao
18+ | Gamble responsibly GambleAware.org | T&C’s apply
MrPacho Casino
100% up to €500 + 200 Free Spins
Payout:
Up to 3 days
Curaçao
18+ | Gamble responsibly GambleAware.org | T&C’s apply
Overview of Finnish Online Gambling
The key facts about Finland’s gambling market include the following:
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According to data from Statista, revenue from the gaming market is expected to grow, and many players will start gambling online as the country introduces reforms to switch from a state monopoly and open the market to other operators by the year 2027.
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Gambling activities in Finland are regulated by the Ministry of the Interior and the Gambling Administration of the National Police Board (Arpajaishallinto in Finnish).
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Under the Finnish Lotteries Act (1047/2001), Veikkaus Oy is the only state-owned operator allowed to offer gambling services at land-based and online casinos.
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This monopoly is poised to end by 2027/28 after the issuance of business-to-customer (B2C) and business-to-business (B2B) licences.
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The autonomous region of Finland, the Åland Islands, has an independent government, and Penningautomatförening (“PAF”) is responsible for regulating gambling there, just like Veikkaus.
Important Facts About Online Gambling in Finland
Finland has a regulated gaming market with strict gambling laws and regulations in place to protect gamblers. Here are the important facts to keep in mind:
How We Find & Rate the Best Gambling Sites for Finnish Players
With unparalleled expertise in events and trends in the iGaming industry, Ace Alliance stands out as a good source of information. Besides organising events, we gather insights from industry leaders and study gaming sites before recommending them to our visitors. Our casino and sportsbook reviewers always consider the following crucial factors.
Licensing & Security Measures
- The gambling operator must be licensed and regulated by a trustworthy regulatory authority.
- The website must use cutting-edge encryption technology to protect player data.
- Regulatory compliance is crucial to ensure safe and legal online gambling in Finland.
Game Selection & Fairness
- We ensure that the operator has a wide range of casino games and sports betting options.
- The games must come from top-tier developers with fair games and the relevant licences.
- A diverse selection guarantees that Finnish players can enjoy both local and international games.
Bonus Rewards & Promotions
- Our experts rate casinos and bookmakers based on the quality of bonuses.
- We always check the bonus terms and conditions (T&C) for fair wagering requirements.
- Transparency in promotional rules is essential to avoid misleading bonus offers.
Reliable Payment Options
- Each gaming platform must provide several payment methods accepted in Finland.
- We look for online casinos that support popular e-wallets, bank cards, pay-by-mobile options, and virtual currencies in addition to traditional payment methods.
- Payment options should support transactions in euros and offer Finnish language interfaces.
History & Facts About Online Gambling in Finland
Many significant legislative changes shaping the Finnish gambling market have taken place over the years, aiming to provide a well-defined legal framework and reduce harm. Below, we will explore existing laws and their implications.
1926
1990s
2022
2023
2024
2026
2027
2028
Insights on Finnish Online Gambling Regulations
The gambling industry in Finland operates under strict regulations and is expected to experience tremendous growth. Below, we have provided key insights regarding regulation, popular gambling options, and the market.
Online Gambling Licences & Finnish Regulations
Comparing Reputable Online Gambling Licensing Regulators
Offshore operators can choose from several licensors, and it is important to evaluate the benefits of choosing a particular regulator. Here is our comparison of trusted gambling licence issuers based in different countries.
| Licence | Accepted in Finland | Safety and Responsibility | Reliability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) | Yes | Strict laws and player protection measures | Extremely popular and reliable |
| Curacao eGaming | Sometimes | More lenient gambling laws | Good |
| Estonian Tax and Customs Board | Yes | EEA-compliant safety measures and strict regulations | Very reliable |
Types of Online Gambling Available in Finland
The most common types of gambling in Finland are online casino games and sports betting. Popular game options include slots, bingo, poker, roulette, and blackjack.
Pay N Play casinos powered by Trustly are also available, allowing players to start playing and withdraw winnings without following lengthy registration and verification procedures
Learn More About Popular Digital Payment Providers in Finland
Banks and many major payment processors in Finland do not support gambling payments. This is because online gaming is a high-risk investment. For instance, the risks of chargebacks and fraudulent activities are high. Due to these factors, e-wallets are the most common payment methods accepted by gambling operators. The top options include the following:
Trustly
PaysafeCard
What Are Bonuses in Online Gambling & Other FI Player Perks
A good gambling platform usually offers incentives known as bonuses or promotions to attract new players and retain existing customers. Veikkaus is prohibited from offering free spins or free bets, but these and other bonuses are popular at offshore casinos and sportsbooks.
Most bonuses have wagering requirements and other T&Cs that players must read and understand before claiming.
Tips for Gambling Online Safely in Finland
Gamblers in Finland should always prioritise their safety and choose licensed and regulated sites for the best gaming experience.
Editor’s Tip
Under the current gambling laws in Finland, the National Police Board is required to supervise Veikkaus to ensure compliance with the AML Act.
Cagla Taskin
Editor on
Responsible Online Gambling Practices for Finnish Players
Gambling is supposed to be an entertaining activity for all people in Finland and other countries. Gamblers must embrace the following responsible gaming practices to play safely.
Set Deposit Limits
Limit the amount of money you deposit to the online casino and use to place real money bets.
Limit Time Spent
Set time limits to prevent addiction and avoid spending too much time on gambling activities.
Avoid Chasing Losses
Take breaks when on a losing streak to avoid losing more money to the casino or sportsbook.
Online Gambling Resources for Finnish Players
Players from Finland have access to helpful resources to prevent and deal with gambling-related harms. They should consider the following options.
Responsible Gambling
Self-Exclusion Support
Educational Initiatives
Make Use of Available Tools
Gamblers can use the responsible gaming tools provided by the operator. These include deposit limits, bet limits, breaks, and self-exclusion.
Limit Access to Gambling Activities
Veikkaus is responsible for introducing self-exclusion measures to protect players. This option allows gamblers who are unable to control harmful habits to be excluded from gambling sites.
Refer to Resources
Veikkaus is required to notify players of the adverse effects of gambling. Moreover, players can get more information from the Ministry of the Interior and the Gambling Administration of the National Police Board.
Future of Online Gambling in Finland
Finland’s initiative to reform the current monopoly by Veikkaus is expected to open the market to new operators who will be allowed to obtain B2C licences by 2027-28.
With the new changes to gambling laws and regulations, more gambling sites will emerge, making legal gaming services more accessible in Finland.
Discover More About Online Gambling in Europe
Many countries in Europe offer a gambling-friendly environment for casino game enthusiasts and sports bettors. Learn more about the European online gambling market and explore gaming laws, game options, and payment methods for real money players.
Conclusion
The gambling market in Finland is gradually growing, thanks to previous and recent efforts to reform legislation and allow more operators to enter the market. With the enactment of new laws, the monopoly system of regulation will end and pave the way for more companies to acquire licences and offer legal gambling services to locals.
FAQ About Online Gambling in Finland
Which Types of Gambling Are Available Online in Finland?
Gaming options for players in Finland include sports betting, bingo, and games like roulette, poker, online slots, and blackjack.
Are Online Gambling Sites in Finland Safe to Join?
Online casinos and sportsbooks are safe to join if they operate legally under a valid gaming licence issued by the authorities.
Who Regulates the Gambling Market in Finland?
The Ministry of the Interior and the Gambling Administration of the National Police Board (“Arpajaishallinto”) are responsible for regulating gambling in Finland.