Everything You Need to Know About the Casino Laws
In Norway, online casino gambling is tightly regulated by the Norwegian Gaming Authority (Lotteritilsynet). The country’s gambling laws, including the Gaming Scheme Act and the Payment Act, enforce a state-controlled monopoly.
This allows only Norsk Tipping to offer legal online casino services. Offshore sites are prohibited, and banks are legally required to block transactions to and from these illegal platforms.
Lotteritilsynet
- Only Norsk Tipping and Norsk Rikstoto are allowed to offer gambling services.
- The Payment Act blocks banks from processing transactions to offshore gambling sites.
- The Lottery Act regulates lotteries and allows only non-profits to run them with a license.
- The Gaming Scheme Act controls sports betting, poker, and online casino games.
- The Totalisator Act manages horse race betting, limited to Norsk Rikstoto.
- Gambling ads are tightly controlled and made by state-approved operators.
- Lotteritilsynet fines and blocks illegal gambling websites.
The Gaming Scheme Act of 2023 boosted the state’s monopoly and gave Lotteritilsynet more authority to block illegal offshore sites. Yet, with ongoing discussions in Europe, I would not be surprised if Norway faces pressure to relax its strict gambling regulations.
Gambling in Norway
Norway allows several forms of gambling under strict state control. Lotteries, sports betting, and horse racing are legal and managed by state-run operators Norsk Tipping and Norsk Rikstoto.
Unfortunately, land-based casinos are entirely banned, but you can still visit bingo halls and lottery kiosks. Additionally, slot machines were banned in 2007, although some heavily regulated interactive video terminals (IVTs) are allowed in specific locations.
Quick Factsheet
- Land-based casino gambling is illegal in Norway.
- Norsk Tipping and Norsk Rikstoto have a monopoly on gambling services.
- Lotteries, sports betting, and horse racing are allowed under strict control.
- Offshore gambling is illegal, but players are not prosecuted for participating.
- Banks are required to block transactions to unlicensed gambling sites.
Offshore gambling is illegal in Norway, and the government actively works to block access to these sites. Yes, players are not prosecuted for participating, but you’re on your own in case of legal disputes. This and the data risks are the main reasons we strongly advise against it.
Gambling History and Future
Gambling in Norway has been regulated for over a century, starting with the 1902 Penal Code. In 1927, the Totalisator Act legalized betting on horse racing, leading to the establishment of Norsk Rikstoto.
Over time, the government tightened its control, with the 1986 Lottery Act granting Norsk Tipping a monopoly on lotteries and the 1992 Gaming Scheme Act expanding gambling regulations.
Norwegian Flag
- 1902: The first gambling law was introduced, allowing only licensed gambling.
- 1927: Totalisator Act legalized horse racing betting, and Norsk Rikstoto was founded.
- 1986: Lottery legalized under monopoly control of Norsk Tipping.
- 1992: Gaming Scheme Act expands legal gambling options under state control.
- 2007: Slot machines banned nationwide due to addiction concerns.
- 2010: Payment Act blocks transactions to offshore gambling sites.
- 2023: New Gaming Scheme Act strengthens controls and blocks foreign websites.
Traditionally, games like bingo and horse racing have been popular, and poker became legal for home play in 2015 under strict conditions. Despite these allowances, gambling has often been a controversial topic.
No immediate changes are expected moving forward. Yet, I expect the increasing popularity of offshore gambling to push the government to rethink its restrictive approach.
Conclusion
So, here’s what we’ve learned: Norway’s gambling scene is tightly regulated, with Norsk Tipping and Norsk Rikstoto being the only legal providers of casino games, lotteries, sports betting, and horse racing.
Land-based casinos are banned, and while offshore gambling is illegal, many still take unnecessary risks. The key takeaway? If you’re gambling in Norway, it’s best to stick to the legal options, no matter how limited they may be.
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve tried to answer the most common questions about online gambling in Norway. But if you have any other queries, feel free to reach out.
Is online gambling in Norway legal?
Online gambling is legal only through the state-controlled Norsk Tipping and Norsk Rikstoto. Offshore online gambling is technically illegal, although Norwegian players are not prosecuted for using foreign websites. Just keep in mind that in case of legal disputes, you're on your own.
Can you play online poker in Norway?
You can play online poker in Norway, mainly through Norsk Tipping. It offers popular formats like Texas Hold'em and Omaha. This skill-based game is popular among Norwegians and has a long history of casual and competitive play.
How much tax do you pay on gambling winnings in Norway?
Gambling winnings from Norsk Tipping are tax-free up to a certain amount. If you win more than NOK 10,000 from offshore or foreign gambling sites, you must declare and pay taxes on those winnings.
Written By Angelina Vodenicharova