Dutch Regulator KSA Introduces a New Licensing Model for Land-Based Casinos

How the New Certification Model Will Work

The initiative's primary objective is to enhance transparency and facilitate key processes for approving and overseeing offline entertainment activities. The new permit will be incorporated into the existing certification system and have equal force, guaranteeing a seamless shift to the revised accreditation format.

The main distinction of the new model is its limited validity period. Unlike current indefinite documents, this fresh alternative enables the KSA to regularly evaluate operators' adherence to established requirements and decide whether to renew or revoke casino certificates on a case-by-case basis.

Key Benefits of the Revised Licensing Approach

The regulatory body's representatives state that switching to the fixed-term format will lead to:

• more effective supervision of the land-based gaming vertical;
• unified legal standards for both established and emerging brands;
• a more competitive, transparent business environment.

This approach has already been implemented in the municipality of Amsterdam, where slot machine certificates have been replaced with temporary permits.

Separate Permit Category for Skill-Based Gaming

A central part of the reform will be the introduction of a new document type. A limited operating licence is intended specifically for games where punters’ reactions and strategies are important. Unlike traditional gambling, which relies exclusively on chance and awards cash prizes, skill-based solutions offer extra rounds, bonus functions, or modifiers.

Currently, the state issues a single unified document for both RNG slots and content that assesses punters’ dexterity. Brands focusing on the latter genre have repeatedly requested that KSA create a separate permit category. The authority’s initiative intends to enable these companies to secure certification via a streamlined process, improve internal operations, and enhance management structures.

Move Toward Tighter Market Oversight

The body’s reform signifies a transition to a stricter regulatory framework and increased business liability.

KSA will soon implement revised standards, such as:

• expanded requirements for permit resumptions;
• additional obligations for new applicants;
• regular compliance evaluations.

Additionally, the organisation plans to update licensing standards for offline games.

The disclosed modifications include:

• obligatory detailed market entry strategies;
• confirmation of sustainability and long-term commitments;
• guarantees of responsible, transparent business management.

These new rules will take effect on January 1st, 2026, providing operating companies sufficient time to adapt to established norms.

Future Implications of the Reform for the Dutch Market

Industry experts suggest that while the new licensing framework mainly targets the land-based segment, its influence is likely to reach much further. The rollout of temporary certificates, better-organised procedures, and routine compliance audits will, over time, impact the hybrid and online verticals as well.

The reform initiated by KSA marks a substantial move towards improving the integrity and transparency of the Dutch gambling sector. The body’s members aim to find the right balance between innovative market growth and responsible regulation, thereby creating a trustworthy and equitable business environment for all industry stakeholders.