The Dutch government is preparing stricter gambling regulations after concerns over rising participation and gambling-related harm. Young adults remain a key focus due to their higher vulnerability to addiction and financial difficulties. Dutch online gambling reforms are expected to introduce new consumer protection measures across the market.

• The government plans to ban all online gambling advertising and prohibit operator bonuses, including free bets and account sign-up incentives. Officials said previous advertising restrictions have not sufficiently reduced exposure to gambling promotions. The measures are intended to limit the normalisation of gambling, particularly among younger audiences.
• New deposit controls will require players to pass an affordability check before increasing their gambling limits. The assessment will consider factors such as financial circumstances, payment arrears and legal guardianship status. The government said the goal is to prevent losses that players cannot afford.
• The Cruks (‘Centraal Register Uitsluiting Kansspelen‘) central register for gambling exclusion will be upgraded as part of the reforms. Players will be able to register voluntarily for an indefinite period, while family members and administrators may find it easier to request exclusion on behalf of others. Authorities also want stronger links between support services and the register to improve access to help.
• Dutch online gambling enforcement will be strengthened through additional measures targeting illegal operators. The government and the Dutch gambling regulator ‘Kansspelautoriteit‘ (KSA) are exploring tools including website blocking and new obligations for payment providers and hosting companies. The proposals will now be developed into legislation as part of a broader strategy to reduce gambling-related harm.

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