This guide delves into the legal landscape of betting sites in the Netherlands and what you should consider when placing online sports bets in the country.
- 1 Betting in the Netherlands – An Overview of Current Practices
- 2 Dutch Gambling Rules and Regulations for Players
- 3 Rules Governing Betting Sites in the Netherlands
- 4 Selecting the Ideal Betting Platform in the Netherlands
- 5 Essentials for a Bookmaker Operating in the Netherlands
- 6 Popular Sports for Betting in the Netherlands
- 7 Favored Payment Options for Dutch Bettors
- 8 How To Deposit at Dutch Betting Sites
- 9 Explore Other Country-Specific Betting Guides – Click on a Flag for More Information
- 10 ThePuntersPage Final Say
- 11 Sources
- 12 Frequently Asked Questions about Top Dutch Betting Platforms
Betting in the Netherlands – An Overview of Current Practices
Attention!
Gambling in the Netherlands is restricted to those 18 and older, with bonuses accessible only to those over 24.
The Remote Gambling Act The Gambling Act (KOA) implemented on April 1, 2021 , introduced substantial improvements for gamers.
A major development from the document is that as of October 1, 2021, new licenses became available for both local and international betting sites, with 24 operators now legally operating under Dutch licenses.
Is Online Sports Betting Permitted in the Netherlands?
Yes, betting is perfectly legal as long as you're using an online bookmaker licensed by the Netherlands Gaming Control Board .
Once you've confirmed that your bookmaker meets all necessary requirements, you can proceed with complete confidence.
How Sports Betting Became Legalized in the Netherlands
Before 2021, the sports betting scene in the Netherlands was monopolized by De Lotto and Scientific Games Racing B.V., and all forms of online gambling from foreign entities were unlawful due to the absence of licensing.
However, the Dutch government was unable to control the illegal market, with many foreign operators still servicing Dutch players.
Fast forward to today, the Netherlands Gambling Authority now regulates bookmakers strictly adhering to tight rules for licensed operators.
INFO
It’s crucial to use a licensed platform when betting in the Netherlands to enjoy bonuses and promotions safely.
The Future of Regulated Betting in the Netherlands
With the introduction of the Remote Gambling Act in 2021, online gambling became officially legalized, enabling major brands like bet365 to operate legally, provided they have a KSA license.
Despite this, stringent rules led to the departure of all betting exchanges that were previously available. Currently, no licensed sites offer this service, yet this may evolve.
Additionally, due to the Kansspelautoriteit's 2020 - 2024 Strategy, operators are prohibited from using most ads as of July 1, 2023. They can only target ads to those over 24 and must confirm this age requirement for all promotions.
Dutch Gambling Rules and Regulations for Players
The Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) aims to protect Dutch gamblers in its role as the independent gambling regulator.
KSA License
It's vital to gamble only on KSA-licensed sites to avoid illegal gambling risks. To ensure license validation, look for approval seals at the top or bottom of their homepage.
Age Limits
Legal gambling age in the Netherlands is 18 , beyond dispute. Proof of age and identity with valid documents is necessary to register for an account, and claiming bonuses requires being over 24.
Responsible Gambling
To support responsible gambling, the KSA has launched a new self-exclusion platform.cruksregister.nl Every betting site must cross-check the self-exclusion list on Cruks before approving new customers. If you need a break, you can opt to pause gambling from 6 months to 99 years.
Rules Governing Betting Sites in the Netherlands
KSA Licensing
Operators must secure a license from The Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) to legally function in the Netherlands.
Responsible Gambling
Bookmakers must prioritize responsible gambling, ensuring players have the tools to oversee their betting habits. Notably, the Dutch government's efforts focus on maintaining control over young gamblers aged 18 to 24, pursuant to KSA's 2020 – 2024 strategy , with changes updated as of July 1, 2023:
Operators can't conduct non-targeted advertising campaigns.
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Advertisements are limited to individuals aged 24 and older and must not target vulnerable audiences.
Selecting the Ideal Betting Platform in the Netherlands
With so many choices, picking the right online betting site can be daunting. Here are some expert tips to consider:
1. Safety
Safety is paramount! Ensure you opt for a reputable operator, especially within the Netherlands, where the Remote Gambling Act ensures strict oversight, so finding a licensed bookmaker isn't too challenging.
2. Payments
Premier Dutch betting platforms support diverse payment methods like credit/debit cards, e-wallets, and bank transfers. Most sites offer iDEAL for seamless bank integration.
Choosing a site that supports euros for betting helps you avoid high exchange rates.
3. Odds
Getting value for your money hinges on the odds your bookmaker offers. Use our odds overround calculator to calculate your bet's profit margin and ensure you're making the most of your bets.
4. Promotions
Top betting sites usually entice new users with welcome bonuses or sign-up promotions, typically offering free bet credits, risk-free wagers, or similar incentives.
We advise against claiming bonuses if you're under 24.
5. Sports
For any top bookmaker, a wide sports selection is crucial. A larger portfolio generally signifies reliability and opens up more betting avenues.
While numerous Dutch sites boast robust sports offerings, some specialize in select sports.
At present, unless using a VPN, certain products remain inaccessible in the Netherlands. For example, betting exchanges are legal but remain unavailable via licensed operators.
6. Apps
Many Dutch betting platforms offer mobile solutions, yet the Circus.nl app stands out on both Apple and Android for its outstanding features.
The app mirrors the website's sports offerings, markets, and odds, perfect for bettors who value mobile accessibility or frequent travel.
Essentials for a Bookmaker Operating in the Netherlands
Now, online bettors must set maximum credit limits on their accounts, while operators must have a responsible gambling strategy in place.
Advertisements can only appeal to individuals 24 and older.
Ads cannot target vulnerable groups .
At least 95% of any promotional content should target those aged 24+.
Customer service agents should be fluent in Dutch to assist players.
Verification of Dutch players’ identities is mandatory before finalizing registrations.
Popular Sports for Betting in the Netherlands
Steeped in rich sporting tradition, many Dutch greats have left their mark—names like Johan Cruyff in football, Fanny Blankers-Koen in athletics, and Michael van Gerwen in darts top the list. But which sports reign supreme in Dutch betting circles?
Football
Football reigns as the Netherlands' favorite sport, which is hardly shocking given the iconic players who've sported the renowned orange kit.
The Eredivisie is the pinnacle of Dutch football, featuring clubs steeped in history like Ajax, Feyenoord, and PSV.
Globally, the English Premier League garners immense attention, offering a plethora of enticing betting opportunities.
One of the most renowned competitions around is the UEFA Champions League , featuring high-stakes matches throughout the year. From the 2024/25 season, the Eredivisie-winning team and the runners-up from the Netherlands will directly earn spots in the Champions League. For the team finishing third, they’ll face the hurdle of qualification rounds.
Hockey
Hockey holds a special place in the Dutch sports scene, with the country having proudly hosted the 2014 Hockey World Cup in The Hague – a tournament clinched thrice by the Dutch team.
The stellar performances of the Dutch men's and women's teams on international platforms have sparked a massive surge of interest in hockey across the Netherlands, especially for the women, who've bagged the last three successive Hockey World Cups, raising their total to an impressive nine.
Darts
Darts is a crowd-pleaser with its pub-like environment offering a thrilling spectator experience. The Netherlands hosts numerous events such as the Dutch Masters and parts of the international darts circuit. Darts Premier League .
The Netherlands boasts some phenomenal darts athletes, with the likes of Michael Van Gerwen and Raymond van Barneveld being the crème de la crème. They've claimed several Darts World Cups and numerous other prestigious titles in the sport. Darts World Championships The Dutch show a keen interest in sports like volleyball, cycling, horse racing, tennis, golf, MMA, UFC, and gymnastics.
In earlier attempts to regulate the market, the Dutch government tried to halt transactions with online betting platforms. Yet, online gambling sites, banks, and payment providers resisted. The government's measures fell flat, leading to diverse payment methods being available.
Favored Payment Options for Dutch Bettors
For many bettors, traditional payment routes include credit and debit cards like Visa and Mastercard , which are trusted globally. Though they offer significant payment limits, their speed is often outpaced by e-wallets.
Credit/Debit Cards
This secure Dutch payment service is immensely favored by bettors and is widely accepted across betting platforms in the Netherlands. It ensures instant deposits without fees, arguably the safest method available. Simply choose it at checkout, select your bank, and proceed as usual. Interestingly, it also doubles as encryption for your bank transactions.
iDEAL
Given the various restrictions, bank transfers stand out as the simplest option. Bookmakers can process withdrawals solely through these bank transfers.
Bank Transfer
Using Skrill, NETELLER, and Cryptocurrencies
If you're leaning toward e-wallets and cryptocurrencies, iDEAL will likely be your payment itinerary. You just need to select Skrill, NETELLER, or your chosen cryptocurrency bank.
The deposit process can vary across platforms, but typically follows a similar flow:
How To Deposit at Dutch Betting Sites
Initially, create a new account; the option is usually on the top-right corner.
Head to the ‘My Account’ section to explore your settings and available choices.
Options to deposit and withdraw will be visible – click on deposit.
Select your preferred method and specify how much you'd like to transfer.
After completing these steps, simply confirm your transaction , and the funds should promptly reflect in your account.
Thinking of taking a vacation or moving permanently to these countries? Our resources will keep you well-informed about betting practices specific to each location.
Explore Other Country-Specific Betting Guides – Click on a Flag for More Information
Craving insight on international betting regulations? Dive into our comprehensive
Whether you're gambling while vacationing or have settled in the Netherlands, knowing the legalities of online betting is crucial. international betting guide .
ThePuntersPage Final Say
With clear regulations now set up, the Dutch market is blossoming, allowing residents to indulge in an array of betting avenues. Dutch bettors can relish a spectrum of sports and events to wager on within an exciting online gambling environment. So, bet with discernment, and may fortune favor you!
Indeed, it is. The Netherlands Gambling Authority does not inhibit online gaming activities, meaning participants won't face prosecution. Dutch bettors can put their minds at ease regarding this.
Sources
{-{em}-}Coefficient success: Netherlands Secure Second Direct Champions League ticket{-{/em}-} (2023) {-{em}-}Football Oranje{-{/em}-}. Available at: http://www.football-oranje.com/coefficient-success-netherlands-secure-second-direct-champions-league-ticket/#::text=That%20means%20two%20sides%20from,huge%20boost%20for%20the%20Eredivisie.
Frequently Asked Questions about Top Dutch Betting Platforms
Can online betting firms legally operate within the Netherlands?
Which sports do the Dutch favor for betting?
Which betting sites would you recommend?
Check out all writings by Jeremy Sant Fournier