A Player’s Guide to Responsible Gambling in the Netherlands
Written By Scott Lawson
Since 2021 Dutch citizens can gamble online at licensed and regulated online casinos, sportsbooks, and poker rooms. On this page we will cover responsible gambling regulations, how to avoid bad sites and provide some resources for those at risk of gambling addiction.
Responsible Online Gambling Laws & Regulations
In the Netherlands the regulatory body responsible for issuing licenses to online casinos is the Dutch Gambling Authority (Kansspelautoriteit). After the passing of the Remote Gambling Act in October 2021 and the subsequent legalisation of online gambling, the Gambling Authority licensed a small number of gaming sites.
Part of the Dutch Gambling Authority’s regulatory duty includes various aspects of casino operations, such as player protection, responsible gambling measures, fairness of games, and anti-money laundering procedures.
Online Dutch casinos must ultimately comply with the Kansspelautoriteit if they want to be licensed and legit. The Kansspelautoriteit supervises licence holders to ensure they are committed to promoting responsible online gambling, which, among other things, involves ensuring that excluded people are not using their services.The Kansspelautoriteit also works to raise awareness of the risks associated with gambling, and one of their main aims is to promote addiction prevention.
Excluded Persons at NL Online Casinos
There are certain groups of people who will be excluded by law from gambling at NL online casinos. The main group is those who are underage. By law, players must be 18 years or over to gamble in the Netherlands and identity checks will be carried out to ensure this is the case.
Dutch players also have the option to voluntarily exclude themselves from online gambling if they think it is becoming a problem. People can also be admitted to this exclusion list involuntarily through a request from a partner, family member or a gambling operator.
Responsible Gambling Tips – Best Practices for Dutch Players
Responsible online gambling behaviour refers to the habits and actions that allow individuals to gamble in a way that is safe, sustainable, and enjoyable without causing harm to themselves or others. It includes things such as setting limits on the amount of time and money spent on gambling and seeking help when needed.
The following paragraphs will highlight the most important Dutch responsible gambling tips to follow. Sticking to these practices can help ensure that you view gambling as entertainment only, rather than a way to make money or solve personal problems.
Keep Your Bankroll under Control
The first point on our list of responsible gambling tips is setting limits to keep your bankroll under control. This means limits on both the amount of money and amount of time spent gambling, as well as the amount of losses that can be tolerated so that you know when to walk away.
It’s important that Dutch players stick to a predetermined budget before engaging in any gambling activity, as this helps prevent overspending, and enables you to enjoy your favorite games without risking more than you can afford to lose. If you experience a losing streak, resist the urge to keep playing in an attempt to win back your losses.
Use Responsible Gambling Tools to Self-Manage
Dutch players can make use of various responsible gambling tools to keep track of their online gambling. These tools are available on many online platforms, and they can be a useful way to limit the amount of time and money spent gambling. These include setting deposit limits, time out periods and reality checks plus some others:
- ? Deposit Limit
- ? Time Limit
- ? Loss Limit
- ? Time Out
- ? Bet Size Cap
- ? Reality Check
Time out periods allow you to take a break from gambling for a set period of time, ranging from 24 hours to several weeks. Reality checks are reminders that are designed to pop up at regular intervals during gameplay, reminding you of how long you have been playing and how much money you have spent.
By using responsible gambling tools, you can better manage your gambling behavior and ensure that it remains a fun and enjoyable activity without the risk of developing a problem. It’s important to remember that these tools are not a substitute for seeking professional help if you feel that your gambling is out of control.
Impose a Voluntary Ban on Yourself Using Cruks
The 2021 Remote Gambling Act requires licensed online and retail operators to check Cruks before allowing a player to gamble. This is the Netherland’s self-exclusion system, the Centraal Register Uitsluiting Kansspelen, and includes the details of people who are excluded from gambling. Here’s what to do if you are considering self-exclusion:
- Try to Control Your Gambling Urges – Try to apply the tips discussed above to set limits with yourself and know when to walk away. Recognise the triggers that make you want to gamble and find alternative activities to occupy your time.
- Seek Help from a Problem Gambling Organisation– If you feel that your gambling is spiralling out of control and having a negative impact on your life, make use of the free resources available from problem gambling organisations.
- Self-Exclude by Registering with Cruks – this is the Dutch national self-exclusion register for online gambling. You can impose a voluntary ban on yourself from all licensed online gambling providers in the Netherlands for a set period of time, typically ranging from 6 months to 5 years.
As well as self-exclusion, a family member, partner or gambling operator can also request an exclusion for someone they think has a problem. To exclude yourself you need to visit the Cruks website and create an account. You will be asked to provide personal details such as your name, date of birth, and contact information.
You will then get to choose the length of time that you would like to ban yourself from online gambling. The minimum period is 6 months, and the maximum period is 5 years. Once you have chosen your ban period, confirm your decision. You will then be banned from all licensed online gambling providers in the Netherlands for the specified period.
Dutch Problem Gambling Organisations – Addiction Prevention, Counselling & Supervision
There are no specific responsible gambling trusts in the Netherlands, unlike in some other countries. However, there are several organisations that work towards promoting responsible gambling practices and preventing problem gambling.
In the next paragraphs, we will introduce the most NL notable organisations regulating the industry and its responsible practices. Each of them can help in case of gambling addiction issues. But even beginner Dutch gamblers can benefit from their guidelines for healthy gambling practices.
Whether you’re looking for a support group or an addiction prevention programme, it’s important to remember that there is help available and you don’t have to suffer in silence. We will go into detail about each organisation and which area they specialise in below:
Kansspelautoriteit – Promotes Responsible Gambling
| ?? Postal Address | PO Box 298, 2501 CG The Hague |
|---|---|
| ?? Phone Number | 070 302 13 00 |
| ?? Official Website | https://kansspelautoriteit.nl |
| ?? E-Mail Address | [email protected] |
| ?? Expertise | Licensing NL Gambling Sites |
The Kansspelautoriteit is the Dutch Gambling Authority. It was established on the 1 April 2012 and is funded through the gambling industry’s taxes.
Kansspelautoriteit is an independent administrative body responsible for regulating and overseeing all forms of gambling in the Netherlands.
Its main mission is to ensure that gambling is legal, reliable, and safe for all Dutch players. One of Kansspelautoriteit’s main tasks is to promote responsible gambling in the Netherlands.
They do this by setting regulations and guidelines for operators to follow, such as rules on advertising and marketing, player protection measures, and responsible gaming tools.
They also provide information and education to the public about the risks associated with gambling and tips on how to gamble responsibly.
AGOG – Problem Gambling Support Group
| ?? Postal Address | AGOG Netherlands Foundation Pieter Calandlaan 317 – 319 1068NH Amsterdam |
|---|---|
| ?? Phone Number | 0800 – 22 777 22 |
| ?? Official Website | AGOG |
| ?? E-Mail Address | [email protected] |
| ?? Expertise | Problem gambling support |
The AGOG (Anonieme Gokkers Omgeving Gokkers) is a support group for people who are affected by problem gambling.
Whether it is the gambler themselves, a family member or friend of a gambler the AGOG can provide the help and guidance needed. It is especially important to know that family and relatives can also initiate the healing process.
An AGOG is a non-profit organisation and its main goal is to help people who are struggling with gambling addiction and their loved ones.
They focus on providing a safe and supportive environment for people to share their experiences, feelings, and challenges related to problem gambling.
As a part of their initiatives, AGOG organise support meetings of the Anonymous Gamblers. Gambling addicts come together to discuss their issues and offer each other support and encouragement to overcome these difficulties. These meetings are organized on a weekly basis in many places in the Netherlands.
Cruks – Self-Exclusion Register
| ?? Postal Address | Gaming Authority PO Box 298 2501 CG The Hague |
|---|---|
| ?? Phone Number | 070 302 13 00 |
| ?? Official Website | Cruks |
| ?? E-Mail Address | [email protected] |
| ?? Expertise | Gambling exclusion register |
The Central Register Exclusion of Games of Chance (Centraal Register Uitsluiting Kansspelen, or Cruks) is the national register for exclusion from gambling sites in the Netherlands. It came into effect on 1 April 2021.
Cruks allows individuals to exclude themselves from participating in any form of legal gambling in the country. The register is managed by the Dutch Gambling Authority (Kansspelautoriteit) and is an important tool for promoting responsible gambling.
Individuals who feel they may have a gambling problem or want to take a break from gambling can voluntarily register with Cruks to exclude themselves from all legal gambling activities.
NL gamlers will be excluded both online and offline, for a specified period of time. Once registered, they will be denied access to casinos, arcades, lotteries, and other forms of gambling in the Netherlands. As established by law, all NL-licensed operators must participate in the Cruks register.
Jellinek – Addiction Prevention and Treatment
| ?? Postal Address | Jacob Obrechtstraat 92 1071 KR Amsterdam |
|---|---|
| ?? Phone Number | 088 – 505 1220 |
| ?? Official Website | Jellinek |
| ?? E-Mail Address | Contact Form |
| ?? Expertise | Addiction treatment |
Next up is Jellinek, an organisation that specialises in addiction prevention, treatment, and research in the Netherlands.
Jellinek is the oldest addiction treatment centre in the Netherlands, with over 100 years of experience in the field. As well as other addictions they are committed to prevention and education related to problem gambling.
They provide information and resources to help individuals understand the risks associated with gambling and how to make informed decisions about their participation in gambling activities.
There is both inpatient and outpatient treatment options for various types of addiction, including alcohol and drug addiction, gambling addiction, and internet addiction.
Although Jellinek was established and headquartered in the capital Amsterdam, it has now branched out to many other locations in the Netherlands to provide a better coverage.
Tactus – Addiction Care and Treatment
| ?? Postal Address | Keulenstraat 3 7418 ET Deventer |
|---|---|
| ?? Phone Number | 088 382 28 87 |
| ?? Official Website | Tactus |
| ?? E-Mail Address | [email protected] |
| ?? Expertise | Addiction care and mental health support |
The Tactus also specialises in addiction care. The organisation provides services for individuals and families affected by addiction and mental health issues.
Tactus focuses on prevention, treatment, and aftercare. A large focus of this organisation is helping addicts with an evidence-based treatment such as cognitive-behavioural therapy.
Tactus offers both inpatient and outpatient addiction treatment programmes for various types of addiction, including alcohol and drug addiction, gambling addiction, and internet addiction.
They also provide mental healthcare services, including counseling and therapy for individuals dealing with other addictions such as depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues.
Several times a year, Neighbourhood mettings are organised on various locations. They can be attended both by the gambler and their loved ones who will support the addict throughout their journey.
Loket Kansspel – A Helpdesk for Gambling Questions
| ?? Postal Address | Loket Kansspel Pieter calandlaan 317-319 1068 NH Amsterda |
|---|---|
| ?? Phone Number | 0800 24 000 22 |
| ?? Official Website | Loket Kansspel |
| ?? E-Mail Address | [email protected] |
| ?? Expertise | Contact point for info and inquiries related to gambling |
The Loket Kansspel is a Dutch organisation that serves as a central point of contact for information and inquiries related to gambling.
The organisation is operated by the Kansspelautoriteit, the Dutch gambling regulator, and they provide information to both consumers and businesses.
The Loket Kansspel is a valuable resource for those with questions or concerns related to gambling, including gambling operators, players, and members of the public.
They can provide guidance on gambling regulations and licensing requirements, as well as information about responsible gambling practices and support services for problem gambling.
Loket Kansspel provides help to those affected by a gambling addiction and their families. There’s also a forum where the fellow sufferers can talk to each other and share tips.
Compulsive Gambling & Addiction Prevention
There are several measures in place to prevent compulsive gambling and addiction in the Netherlands. Reputable NL online casinos will take steps to provide protection to their players, and to educate about the risks associated with gambling.
Unlicensed casinos will not do this, and this is why they are especially dangerous and should be avoided at all costs. Here are some of the main risks associated with irresponsible gambling behaviour and some tips for how to avoid them:
| Severity Index | Gambling Risk | How to avoid it? |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Spending too much time gambling | Set a time limit and stick to it, plus take regular breaks to give yourself time to rest and refocus. |
| 2. | Spending more than you could afford | Decide on a realistic budget of how much you can afford to lose before you begin so you know when to walk away. |
| 3. | Chasing your losses | Set a loss limit, decide in advance how much you’re willing to lose and stick to it. Also keep track of your spending and review it regularly. |
| 4. | Borrowing money to gamble | Use only your own money to gamble, avoid credit cards or any other forms of borrowed money to fund gambling. |
| 5. | Getting in debt | In addition to setting budgets and not using borrowed money to gamble, you can also seek support or self-exclude if you think you may be getting into debt. |
| 6. | Developing a health problem | Be aware of the warning signs of problem gambling, and if you notice any reach out for help from a support group or problem gambling organisation. |
| 7. | Feeling guilt and remorse | Be mindful of your emotions when gambling and if you start feeling guilt or remorse it may be time to take a step back and take a break. |
| 8. | Becoming a compulsive gambler | Look out for the warnings signs and ask for help and support if you need it. This could be through self-exclusion or by joining a support group. |
In summary, the Dutch government and various organisations have implemented measures to help prevent compulsive gambling and addiction. These measures include self-exclusion, player protection measures, education and awareness programs, treatment and support programs, and regulation and enforcement.
By implementing these measures, the Netherlands aims to promote responsible gambling and prevent addiction among its population. NL players who want to avoid the consequences mentioned above should aim to follow the responsible gambling guidelines and be aware of the signs of compulsive gambling.
Dutch Players at Risk of Problem Gambling – Vulnerable Groups
Some Dutch players may be at higher risk of developing problem gambling issues than others, and so not everyone is a good fit for engaging in gambling. There are certain vulnerable groups who are more susceptible to the harms caused by gambling than others and they should not partake in it.
If you recognise yourself as one of the listed people below, we’d advise you to reconsider your decision to become a gambler:
- NL players with a history of addiction
- Dutch nationals of poor socioeconomic status
- Gamblers who partake in risky behaviour
- Dutch teenagers & young adults
- NL elders with impaired memory, cognitive decline, and dementia
- Dutch gamblers with previous problem behaviour
- Dutch people with any cognitive disabilities
Prevention of Underage Gambling
When a player registers with an online casino in the Netherlands, they will typically be required to provide some personal information and documentation, this is partly to verify age and prevent underage gambling. Here is a list of the information and documentation that a newly registered player may be asked to provide:
- ?? BSN (Citizen Service Number)
- ?? PKI certificate
- ?? Bank details
- ?? First and family name
- ?? Postal address
- ?? Chosen play limit
- ?? Date of birth
When creating a new casino account, you will be asked to upload a copy of your ID documents such as passport or driver’s licence, plus provide proof of address, such as a utility bill or bank statement. The online casino will then review the documents provided to ensure that they are valid and match the information provided during registration.
Unreliable Dutch Gambling Sites with Deceptive Practices
Dutch players should be mindful of the gambling sites they use and ensure they are only using legit and trustworthy operators. It’s not worth risking your money or data with a dodgy site. The following list outlines some signs to look out for that may suggest a website is an untrustworthy site, especially in terms of responsible gambling policy:
- No licence by Kansspelautoriteit
- No self-exclusion options for Dutch players
- No partnerships with NL responsible gambling organisations
- No external RNG & payout reports
- Weak technical security and encryption
- Advertising promoting excessive gambling
Another thing you can look out for is a lack of customer support. Reliable online casinos will have customer support options, such as live chat, email, or phone. If an online casino doesn’t offer any, it’s best to avoid it. By keeping these factors in mind, you can help protect yourself from unreliable Dutch online casinos with deceptive practices.
FAQ
We hope that you’ve found this page informative and can make use of the links and resources provided. If you still need further information or perhaps a summary here are some frequently asked questions about responsible gambling in the Netherlands:
What does responsible gambling in the Netherlands mean?
The Dutch government has established a legal framework for responsible gambling, which includes regulations for licensed online gambling operators. The aim of these regulations is to ensure that operators provide a safe and fair gambling environment, prevent underage gambling, and promote responsible gambling practices. You can find out more in our regulation section.
What responsible gambling practices are there in the Netherlands?
The Netherlands has several responsible gambling practices in place to promote safe and responsible gambling, including a strict licensing and regulatory system for all operators. This ensures that they meet certain standards of fairness, security, and responsible gambling. They also provide access to support services for players who are experiencing problems with gambling, such as counselling and treatment programmes.
What responsible gambling organisations are there in the Netherlands?
There are many Dutch organisations that help promote responsible gambling. For example, AGOG is a big one. They are a self-help organisation for people who are struggling with gambling addiction. They provide support and guidance to individuals who are affected by gambling problems, as well as to their families and friends.
What are the risks of problem gambling and addiction for Dutch players?
Problem gambling and addiction can have serious consequences for Dutch players. One of the most common risks of problem gambling is financial difficulties. Players who become addicted to gambling may spend more money than they can afford, which can lead to debt and financial instability. As with any addiction it can also cause relationship problems and mental health issues.
How to spot unreliable Dutch online casinos with deceptive practices?
It's best to avoid sites with bad practices in order to protect yourself and your money. One way to do this is to check for lack of licensing and regulation. Reliable online casinos in the Netherlands will be licensed and regulated by the Dutch Gambling Authority. If an online casino doesn't have a license, it's best to avoid it.