Finland’s transition to a liberalized gambling market has reached its final legislative milestone, with the President formally signing off on the country’s new multi-licensing regulations today.
This definitive action follows the initial approval of the legislation on December 16, solidifying the framework that will govern the industry for years to come.
The core of these regulations is the dissolution of Veikkaus’ long-standing monopoly status. The legislation mandates a shift toward a commercial model designed to improve channelization rates, combat the illegal black market, and boost state revenues through regulated taxation.
Critical Dates for Stakeholders
The signed legislation establishes a rigid timeline for industry stakeholders preparing to enter the Finnish market. The application window for B2C licenses is scheduled to open on March 1, 2027. This pre-application period allows operators to prepare for the official market opening on July 1, 2027.
Simultaneously, the application window for B2B licenses will also open on July 1, 2027. However, the requirement for holding a B2B license will not come into effect until July 1, 2028, giving suppliers a one-year grace period to ensure compliance.
Regulatory Oversight
From July 1, 2026, one year prior to the gambling market launch, the Supervisory Agency of Finland will officially assume responsibility for the licensing and supervision of the market. This body will be tasked with issuing licenses and ensuring that all operators adhere to the strict new standards of the commercial framework. This transition represents one of the most significant regulatory shifts in the European gambling sector in recent history.
