The Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) — the Netherlands Gambling Authority — has announced plans to introduce a separate licence for operators of skill-based gaming machines. The move is part of the regulator’s broader strategy to simplify and modernise the country’s gambling oversight system.
The new licence will allow companies that offer skill-based games only to obtain a limited operating licence, distinguishing them from operators of traditional chance-based slot machines found in gaming halls and hospitality venues.
By creating a separate licensing category, KSA aims to reduce administrative barriers and speed up the approval process, particularly for smaller businesses not engaged in games of chance. According to the regulator, the new limited licence will undergo a shorter and simplified review, making it easier and faster to obtain.
Skill-based machines — such as pinball and arcade-style games — do not offer cash prizes and rely entirely on player ability rather than luck. Previously, they were subject to the same regulations as slot machines, despite clear differences in mechanics and risk levels.
The new licensing framework is a direct response to industry calls for a fairer, more proportionate system that reflects the lower risk profile of skill-based machines. It also highlights the regulator’s commitment to greater efficiency and modernised supervision.
With the introduction of this new category, KSA promises faster application processing, less bureaucracy, and a clearer distinction between games of skill and games of chance under Dutch gambling law.
The regulator stated it will publish detailed guidance on the application process in the coming weeks. In the meantime, operators interested in applying for the new limited licence can contact the authority directly at [email protected].
Election Day
Ahead of the general election on October 29, the Netherlands once again finds itself at a political crossroads — this will be the third national vote in five years. Industry stakeholders are closely monitoring the formation of a new coalition government, which will inherit the complex task of reviewing the Remote Gambling Act (KOA) — a reform approved by the Tweede Kamer (House of Representatives) in April.
For current licence-holders, the outlook remains challenging, regardless of who wins power. Conservative and left-wing parties have shown rare unity in supporting stricter compliance measures on gambling transactions and enhanced player protection oversight.
Meanwhile, no major political party has backed operators’ calls to reverse the planned increase in the gross gaming revenue (GGR) tax to 37.8% by 2026. The measure, expected to raise €200 million ($215 million) annually between 2025 and 2028, is likely to remain in place under the next government — despite concerns that higher taxes could reduce operator profitability and diminish the share of players choosing licensed platforms.
Don’t forget to subscribe to our Telegram channel!
