The Danish Gambling Authority (Spillemyndigheden) announced on Monday the reopening of its licensing window for land-based casinos, inviting applications from both new operators and those wishing to renew their existing 10-year licenses. This marks the first opportunity this year for potential new entrants into the market.
According to the Consolidated Act No. 1182 of September 22, 2025, Spillemyndigheden is authorized to issue permits for land-based casinos, with licenses valid for up to a decade.
Companies interested in applying must submit complete applications, including all necessary supporting documents, by November 3, 2026, as stated in a notice from the authority.
Upon receipt, each application will undergo a consultation process that involves the concerned local municipality, the police chief, and both the Ministry of Taxation and the Ministry of Business and Industry. The Danish Maritime Authority may also be consulted, if applicable.
Applications will be evaluated based on financial stability, relevant experience in the industry, liquidity to cover operating costs, and information regarding company ownership and senior management. Other considerations will include geographical factors and the proposed target demographic.
Currently, Denmark has seven active land-based casino licenses, with establishments located in Copenhagen S, Copenhagen V, Helsingør, Odense, Vejle, Aarhus, and Aalborg. The reopening of the licensing procedure introduces possibilities for market growth or changes in ownership based on the number of licenses granted.
As of the end of 2025, Spillemyndigheden had issued a total of 1,970 licenses across various gambling sectors. According to the regulator’s 2025 annual report, Spilmarkedet i tal 2025, land-based casinos experienced a 5.6% decline in gross gaming revenue (GGR), reporting DKK 378 million ($58.26 million), which represented 3% of the overall gambling market. New land-based bingo, which was recently liberalized, achieved a modest GGR of DKK 30 million (less than 1%).
The report also noted a significant shift toward digital platforms, with online casinos reaching the highest GGR of DKK 4.31 billion, or 38% of the market, reflecting a 12.1% increase (DKK 465 million) year-on-year and more than doubling since 2012.
