Finland Gears Up to Open a Competitive Online Gambling Vertical

Finland is about to launch a competitive iGaming sector. The authorities have revealed 2 draft laws under the Gambling Act. This step remains consistent with the original timeline: licences are expected to be available in early 2026, with the market opening scheduled for January 2027.

New Legal System: Key Details

The drafts delineate clear, straightforward regulations characteristic of well-established international jurisdictions. The comprehensive set of standards encompasses random number generator verification, data protection, and obligatory independent auditing, among other relevant areas.

One of the documents stipulates explicit guidelines for RNG solutions. It specifies the following criteria:

• assurance levels;
• authorised testing methodologies;
• parameters for verification and monitoring of operations;
• rules for implementing, documenting, and tracking mechanisms.

The 2nd draft outlines how Finland's casino security system will function. It presents a 2-stage control model, including obligatory data protection audits every 2 years and annual external vulnerability assessment. These procedures must be carried out by accredited independent organisations in accordance with strict standards.

The 1st check aims to verify the accuracy of session outcomes, the security of personal and financial data, and the integrity of logs. The latter examination will allow for early detection and mitigation of risks related to fraud.

Transitional Regulations and Operator Training

Auditing entities are required to adhere to ISO or IEC norms. During the adaptation period, Finland may accept accreditation under Danish or Swedish frameworks. Ultimately, the regulatory body will make the final decision.

The state-owned operator Veikkaus is reorganising activity models as its long-standing monopoly in the digital segment concludes. The brand will be divided: one part will maintain exclusive rights to lotteries and offline wagering, while the new division will compete on equal terms with other companies to attract customers.

International firms are also gearing up to enter the market. For example:

• ATG, a Swedish brand, has already established a joint venture with Suomen Hippos.
• Paf, a company operated by the Åland Islands, also aims to secure a gambling certificate in Finland and has inked a deal with a Formula 1 driver, Kimi Räikkönen.

Finland is confidently progressing along its strategic plan, successfully developing a system with clear and predictable conditions for future market players.

Feel free to contact us to order a turnkey casino platform or buy revenue-generating entertainment software from reputable content providers for your existing project.