Finland’s incoming competitive gambling market has drawn stronger operator interest than previously expected, with the number of licence applications reaching 75 as the country prepares to end Veikkaus’ online monopoly in 2027.
The National Police Board had received 75 gambling licence applications by 22 September, according to Finnish broadcaster Yle. That represents a sharp increase from around 50 applications reported in June and more than triple the 24 recorded by the end of March.
Applications opened on 1 March 2026 under Finland’s new Gambling Act. The National Police Board said no applications had yet been approved, with processing generally expected to take six to eight months. There is no deadline for applying and Finnish legislation does not place a numerical cap on the number of licensed operators.
Each gambling licence application currently carries a €29,000 processing fee. Authorities assess applicants’ fitness and propriety, including corporate documentation, ownership structures and financial information before making a decision. The fee applies under Finland’s 2026 police-fee decree.
The level of demand has surpassed earlier expectations. University of Helsinki gambling researcher Janne Nikkinen told Yle that forecasts of roughly 40 to 60 applicants had previously been considered optimistic, highlighting the scale of commercial interest in the Finnish market.
Under the new system, private companies will be allowed to offer licensed sports betting, online casino games, online slots and online bingo from 1 July 2027. State-owned Veikkaus will retain exclusive rights over activities including lotteries, scratch cards and physical slot-machine and casino gaming. The reform is intended to bring more gambling activity under Finnish regulation while strengthening measures to prevent gambling-related harm.
Veikkaus has already reorganised its operations ahead of the transition, including establishing separate businesses for monopoly activities and services that will compete in the licensed market. The company has also submitted applications to participate in the competitive sector.
The restructuring has also renewed debate over the Finnish state’s future ownership of Veikkaus. Political parties have taken differing positions, ranging from support for a potential sale or privatisation to opposition to divestment.
The National Police Board will remain responsible for licensing and supervision until 30 June 2027. From 1 July, those duties will transfer to the new Finnish Supervisory Agency as licensed operators become eligible to launch and market gambling services.