Finland
FILast updated Oct 17, 2026
Mainland Finland remains under Veikkaus’s exclusive gambling right until the end of June 2027. The new Gambling Act lets businesses apply for licences from March 2026, but those licences cannot take effect before 1 July 2027. Application status is therefore not permission to operate now. This guide explains the transition, current legal offer, payments and safer gambling.
Population
5.7M
Market Status
Regulated Market
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Popular Payment Methods
Popular Sites
Online gambling in Finland
Under the current Lotteries Act, Veikkaus Oy retains the exclusive right to organise gambling in mainland Finland through 30 June 2027. The new licensing system accepts applications in 2026, but licensed activity may begin only when licences enter into force from 1 July 2027. Marketing or operating without current permission remains prohibited.
Verify the timing
- For play before July 2027, distinguish Veikkaus’s exclusive offer from licence applicants.
- Do not treat a pending future licence or foreign licence as current authority.
- Check the exact domain, legal company and product in official Police guidance.
- Avoid mirror sites, unofficial apps and personal-account transfers.
Payments and complaints
Use a payment method in your own name and keep statements and messages. Read identity, limits and withdrawal rules before play. Report suspected illegal marketing or operation to the competent authority and contact the bank immediately if fraud is suspected.
Responsible gambling
Set money and time limits, never borrow and do not chase losses. Use Veikkaus restrictions, self-exclusion and Peluuri support when control weakens.
Information checked in September 2026. Reconfirm the transition timetable and official licence status before play.