Finland is a country with a unique system of gambling regulation, combining strict control with accessibility for players. For a long time, the Finnish market was under state monopoly, but recent discussions suggest potential changes that could open it up to international operators. Despite this, Finnish users can already play on foreign platforms using popular payment systems.
On this page, we will explore the key features of gambling regulation in Finland, important milestones in its history, as well as convenient methods for depositing and withdrawing winnings.
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Regulation of Gambling in Finland
Finland adheres to a strict gambling regulation system, where a state monopoly controls all major aspects of the industry. The primary goal of this approach is to minimize the negative consequences of gambling and channel its revenues toward public needs.
Until 2017, the gambling market was divided among three state organizations: one managed lotteries and sports betting, another oversaw slot machines and casinos, and the third was responsible for totalizators. However, they were later merged into a single company, which was granted exclusive rights to organize all types of gambling.
In Finland, land-based casinos offer a wide range of slot machines and table games. Additionally, the country has a network of gaming halls with slot machines installed in various public places. Online casinos also operate under the management of the state operator, providing users with access to slots, table games, poker, and other gambling activities.
Despite the monopoly, Finnish players can freely use the services of foreign online casinos, as the law does not prohibit access to such platforms. At the same time, authorities enforce strict control measures, requiring mandatory player identification for certain types of entertainment. This helps prevent underage participation and combat gambling addiction.
Currently, Finland is considering reforming its gambling market by introducing a licensing system. It is expected that this will allow private operators to offer their services, while the state operator will retain its monopoly on lotteries and slot machines. This approach aims to strike a balance between gambling control and the development of a competitive market.
Features of Gambling
Finland implements strict gambling regulations to ensure player safety and prevent the negative consequences of gambling. Special attention is given to online casinos, where various restrictions and control mechanisms are in place.
In online casinos managed by the state operator, there are limits on bets and deposits. Players can set daily, weekly, or monthly deposit limits, as well as control the size of their bets to avoid significant financial losses. Additionally, time limits are imposed on gaming sessions to prevent excessive play.
One of the key control mechanisms is regular notifications informing players of the time spent gaming and the amounts lost. The system may also suggest taking breaks after a certain period of play to prevent prolonged sessions. For those who feel that gambling is becoming a problem, self-exclusion options are available, allowing temporary or permanent restrictions on access to games.
In land-based casinos, such as the Grand Casino Helsinki, control measures are also enforced. Entry requires identification, which prevents underage participation. Inside the venue, informational materials about the risks of gambling are available, and staff are trained to identify signs of gambling addiction and offer assistance when needed.
Thus, the Finnish gambling system aims to create a safe gaming environment where players can enjoy entertainment without facing high risks.
Key Dates
- 2001 – The “Lottery Act” was passed, forming the basis for regulating the entire gambling industry, including online casinos. This law established the state monopoly and defined the basic rules for operators.
- 2010 – Finland officially recognized internet access as a civil right, which contributed to the development of online services, including gambling platforms.
- 2017 – The three state gambling operators were merged into a single company, Veikkaus Oy. This strengthened control over the industry and centralized the management of online casinos and other forms of entertainment.
- 2022 – Additional measures were introduced to control the activities of foreign online casinos. The National Police Board gained the authority to create a blacklist of operators violating advertising rules and restrictions set by law.
Best Payment Methods for Casinos in Finland
Finnish players prefer reliable and convenient methods for depositing and withdrawing funds, favoring both international and local payment systems. Traditional bank transfers, e-wallets, mobile payments, and cryptocurrencies are widely used in the country, ensuring security and high transaction speeds. The table below lists some platforms accepting players from Finland.
| Casino | First Deposit Bonus | Minimum Deposit |
| Winz | Wheel Spin up to 10,000 EUR | From 25 EUR |
| Joy Casino | 50% up to 2000 EUR | From 500 EUR |
| Drip | 100% up to 300 EUR | From 20 EUR |
Local Payment Systems
One of the most convenient and popular payment methods is Euteller, a Finnish instant bank transfer system that works directly with the country’s largest banks. It allows players to transfer funds quickly and securely without the need for registration in third-party services.
Another common solution is Siirto, a mobile app for instant payments that enables money transfers using only a phone number. This method is widely used in Finnish online casinos due to its convenience.
MobilePay offers similar functionality, allowing instant transfers by linking a bank card to a phone number. It enables quick payments both online and in offline stores.
International payment solutions adapted to the local market are also in demand. Trustly and Zimpler allow players to make fast and secure transactions without creating additional accounts, using their bank accounts directly.
Other Payment Methods
In addition to local services, Finnish players actively use e-wallets like Skrill and Neteller, which offer high transaction speeds and support for multiple currencies. Bank transfers are also popular, especially through the instant payment system that allows quick transfers via online banking. Mobile payments are increasingly favored, as they enable deposits in online casinos using a smartphone without the need for a bank card.
Moreover, interest in cryptocurrency payments is growing among Finnish users. They attract players with low fees, anonymity, and high transaction speeds, particularly when playing on international platforms.
Thus, the range of payment methods in Finland is extensive. Players can choose the most convenient and secure options based on their preferences and needs.
Online Casinos in Finland FAQ
Yes, Finland has a state monopoly on gambling, and online casinos are officially managed by Veikkaus Oy. However, Finnish players can freely use international online casinos, as the law does not prohibit access to foreign platforms.
In online casinos managed by Veikkaus Oy, there are limits on bets and deposits, as well as time restrictions on gaming sessions. Players also receive regular notifications about their bets and losses and can use self-exclusion options if needed.
Finnish players prefer bank transfers, e-wallets, and mobile payments. Among local payment systems, Euteller, Siirto, MobilePay, Trustly, and Zimpler are particularly popular, offering fast and secure transactions. International solutions like Skrill, Neteller, and cryptocurrency payments are also in demand.
Yes, gambling in Finland is only allowed for those aged 18 and above. Identity verification is mandatory when registering for online casinos and entering land-based casinos like the Grand Casino Helsinki.
Yes, Finland is considering transitioning to a licensing model by 2026. This would allow private operators to offer their services, although the state monopoly on lotteries and retail slot machines will remain.