Netherlands Poker Regulations – Complete Guide 2026
⚠️ Disclaimer: Online gambling regulations change frequently. This page reflects information current as of early 2026. Always verify with the official regulatory body before playing.
🇳🇱 Poker Regulations in the Netherlands
The Netherlands legalized online gambling including poker in October 2021 under the Remote Gambling Act (KOA). The KSA (Dutch Gaming Authority) oversees licensing and enforcement. After years of operating in a gray market, Dutch players now have access to fully licensed platforms. The market initially saw a slow rollout of licenses, with operators like PokerStars, 888poker, and local brands gradually receiving KSA approval.
📋 Regulatory Overview
| Status | ✅ Regulated & Licensed |
| Regulatory Authority | KSA (Kansspelautoriteit) |
| Year Regulated | 2021 |
| Key Legislation | Remote Gambling Act (KOA – Wet kansspelen op afstand) |
🔑 Key Regulations for Online Poker
KSA license required. Operators pay 30.5% tax on gross gaming revenue. Strict advertising regulations introduced — including a near-total ban on untargeted gambling advertising from July 2023. CRUKS (Centraal Register Uitsluiting Kansspelen) is the national self-exclusion register covering all licensed operators. Deposit limits and mandatory responsible gambling tools required. Player identity verification mandatory before play. Cool-down periods and loss limits enforced.
🏢 Live Poker in the Netherlands
Holland Casino operates 14 venues across the Netherlands and is the primary live poker destination. Amsterdam’s Holland Casino is the flagship venue, hosting the Master Classics of Poker — one of Europe’s most prestigious live tournament series. Rotterdam, Eindhoven, and Groningen also have active poker rooms. The Netherlands is known for producing world-class poker talent.
💡 What Players Should Know
Dutch players must register with CRUKS before playing on any licensed platform. Gambling winnings are tax-free in the Netherlands for recreational players (they fall under the gambling tax paid by operators). Only KSA-licensed platforms are legal. The advertising ban means less promotional noise, but welcome bonuses are still available. Dutch players are known as some of the most skilled in Europe.