Banking and Norwegian iGaming business

Norway has some of the strictest gambling rules in Europe, and only the state-owned monopoly can offer online casinos or sports betting(some charity gambling is permitted, but a license is needed). It’s also illegal for Norwegians to play on foreign websites.

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Challenges for providing online gaming to Norwegians

Because private companies cannot launch an iGaming website in Norway, it’s not possible to legally accept players in the country. Norway also has made it illegal for citizens to gamble on offshore websites. It does not appear that the government actively prosecutes foreign websites that accept Norwegian players, but it is not recommended.

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Who regulates online gaming in Norway?

The Norwegian Gaming Authority is responsible for regulating the iGaming industry. Only state monopoly holders can offer online gaming, and unauthorised gambling companies in the country are liable for punishment.

It’s estimated that about10% of Norwegian gamblers play on foreign websites, and most likely make deposits and receive winnings using e-wallets such as Neteller and Skrill, as these are harder for the government to trace.

iGaming businesses who believe they have Norwegian players using their website should contact the Norwegian Gaming Authority for advice on what to do.