Denmark's Gambling Authority, Spillemyndigheden, has reopened the application process for land-based casino licenses, accepting both new operators and allowing existing licensees to apply for renewals of up to 10 years. Complete applications and supporting documents must be submitted by November 3, 2026.
Applications will undergo multi-departmental consultations
Upon receiving the materials, the regulatory body will consult with relevant local governments, police chiefs, the tax department, and the Ministry of Business and Industry. Consultations may also involve the Danish Maritime Authority when maritime scenarios are concerned. This process integrates local impact, public safety, taxation, and operational capabilities into a single approval framework.
Financial stability and management background are key
Applicants must demonstrate experience in the gambling industry and sufficient liquidity to cover operational costs, and disclose company ownership and senior management information. The assessment will also consider the proposed location's geographical position and target customer base, with licenses not solely determined by bid price or market size.
Denmark currently has seven active licenses
Existing land-based casinos are located in Copenhagen S, Copenhagen V, Helsingør, Odense, Værløse, Aarhus, and Aalborg. The reopening of the application window may bring new entrants and could alter the ownership and regional competition structure of existing properties.
Land-based casinos account for only 3% of the market
According to the regulatory annual report, in 2025, the gross gambling revenue of land-based casinos was 378 million Danish kroner, approximately 58.26 million USD, a 5.6% decrease year-over-year, representing 3% of the national gambling market. Newly opened land-based bingo generated 30 million kroner, accounting for less than 1%.
Online casinos continue to be the main growth drivers
During the same period, the gross gambling revenue of online casinos reached 4.31 billion Danish kroner, accounting for 38% of the market, an increase of 12.1% year-over-year, 139% higher than in 2012. The opening of physical licenses occurs against the backdrop of users clearly shifting to digital channels, with new venues needing a clearer tourism and experience positioning.
A ten-year term benefits investment and enhances responsibility
The longer license term aids in venue planning, financing, and equipment investment, but operators must still demonstrate ongoing solvency and compliance governance. For new entrants, the key is not only obtaining the license but also assessing whether they can establish sustainable non-gambling consumption and local demand when physical customer traffic declines.
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