The Danish government has ended the latest application window for new land-based casino licences, with the concession round officially closing on 3 November. The process, overseen by Spillemyndigheden, Denmark’s Gambling Authority, began on 3 August and offered the possibility of securing a 10-year permit to operate a physical casino in the country.
Review Process and Criteria
Spillemyndigheden will now assess the applications, although it has not disclosed how many licences may be issued. The review will consider each applicant’s professional experience, financial resources, proposed location and customer base, as well as operational plans. Applications that meet the regulator’s criteria will be forwarded to the relevant municipality, where the local police chief will conduct a further review before passing recommendations to the Ministry of Taxation and other relevant authorities.
Current Casino Landscape
Denmark currently has seven licensed land-based casinos, including venues in Copenhagen, Helsingør, Odense, Vejle, Aarhus, and Aalborg. Operating a casino in Denmark requires a specific permit under the Gambling Act, with licences valid for up to ten years. Licensed venues are authorised to offer a range of games, including roulette, poker, baccarat, punto banco, blackjack, and gaming machines. Strict entry checks are enforced to ensure only adults aged 18 and over are admitted, and operators must prevent access by individuals registered with the national ROFUS self-exclusion scheme.
Implications for Industry Stakeholders
This concession round is significant for operators and affiliates seeking to enter or expand in Denmark’s regulated land-based casino market. The application and review process is rigorous, with a strong emphasis on professional and financial suitability. Successful applicants will face further challenges as Denmark moves towards stricter gambling regulation. A new bill, introduced in October, proposes tighter advertising controls and stronger enforcement powers, with provisions expected to come into force from January 2027. These changes could impact marketing strategies and compliance requirements for both new and existing licence holders.
Key takeaways
- Denmark has closed applications for new land-based casino licences as of 3 November.
- Spillemyndigheden will now assess applicants based on professional, financial, and operational criteria.
- The regulatory landscape is set to tighten, with proposed advertising restrictions and enforcement measures on the horizon.
- Operators and affiliates must prepare for evolving compliance requirements in Denmark’s casino sector.