Finland Receives 75 Gambling Licence Applications Before Market Opening
Finland has received 75 gambling licence applications as the country prepares to open its regulated market on July 1, 2027.
The National Police Board reported the total as of September 22, 2026. This is up from around 50 applications recorded in June.
Operators have been able to submit applications since March 1, 2026. Each applicant must pay a €29,000 processing fee for licences valid in 2026 before the authority begins its full assessment.
No licences have been granted yet. The National Police Board said applicants are being reviewed based on submitted documents, including checks on their reliability and suitability.
Earlier estimates suggested Finland could receive between 40 and 60 applications.
Janne Nikkinen, researcher at the University of Helsinki, commented:
Finland is attracting interest. After all, this is a billion-dollar pot that is being distributed here now.
The new system will replace Veikkaus’ current gambling monopoly. The first licences under the framework will become effective on July 1, 2027.
After the market opens, regulatory oversight will move from the National Police Board to the new Finnish Supervisory Agency.
