The Dutch regulator has announced changes to the licensing system for online casino operators

The Dutch Gambling Authority (Kansspelautoriteit, KSA) has announced significant amendments to the licensing rules for online casinos, set to take effect on January 1, 2026. These changes will directly impact operators who obtained their initial licenses in 2021, which will expire in October 2026.
The new regulations introduce additional requirements for all applicants, with the primary aim of enhancing oversight and ensuring transparency for those wishing to continue operating in the market.
Starting in 2026, license applicants will be required to submit an expanded set of documents. Notably, a so-called "exit plan" will be mandatory. This document outlines how a company intends to responsibly and properly wind down its operations in the event it chooses not to renew its license. Additionally, applicants will need to notify the regulator of any significant changes to their structure and policies, as well as provide a risk analysis.
For existing operators, the license renewal process will become more stringent and detailed. The KSA plans to reassess the performance of companies, focusing on areas such as responsible gambling policies, customer acquisition practices, and advertising strategies. A new integration test for the Control Database (CDB), which tracks operations, will also be implemented.
The introduction of these amendments is crucial for the entire iGaming market in the Netherlands. For companies operating since 2021, this will serve as a compliance check against KSA standards. A history of violations will now play a critical role, as operators will be required to present plans for rectifying past mistakes. The regulator has emphasized that failure to meet the new conditions will result in non-renewal of licenses, even if a company has previously operated successfully in the market.
Notably, provider Betsoft is entering the Dutch market following a partnership with operator Starcasino.