Finland Sets Gambling Licence Fees Ahead Of Market Liberalisation

Finland moves ahead with licence fees tied to a gambling market reform, while the Ministry of the Interior changes its service charge decree for 2026 to reflect the Gambling Act, and people can feel the shift.

A revised decree defines fees covering exclusive licences, gambling licences, and international cooperation authorisations. This decision continues Finland’s shift away from a monopoly structure toward a regulated licensing model. According to the decree, licence applications may reach the National Police Board starting in March 2026. Applicants must pay €29,000 per licence, while licence amendments require a separate €1,120 payment. The €1,120 charge also applies to international cooperation authorisation requests from existing licence holders.

Authorities confirmed the decree takes effect on 1 March and expires on 31 December. These dates match the early licensing phase before market liberalisation begins. During the interim, the National Police Board will manage licensing responsibilities. The board plans to release additional application procedures later in the process. Approved operators cannot launch or promote gambling services immediately after licensing. Service launch may occur only after the new Gambling Act starts on 1 July 2027. This structure creates distance between licence approval and active market participation.

The End of an ERA

Finland finalised its gambling reform legislation in mid-January through presidential approval by Alexander Stubb. That reform removes the monopoly long held by state-owned Veikkaus Oy in the online gambling sector. Under the new system, betting and online casino games, including slots and real-money bingo, are open to competition. Lawmakers designed the regime to place Finland alongside other regulated European gambling markets. 

Veikkaus Oy will still control lottery products, scratch cards, and land-based slots and casinos. Until June 2027, the company remains the only authorised gambling operator under police oversight. That body will oversee licensing and supervision duties for the market. The handover finalises reform as competitive gambling operations begin nationwide.