Denmark invites land-based casino bids to renew declining GGR

On Monday, the Danish Gambling Authority (Spillemyndigheden) announced its licensing window for land-based casinos has reopened, inviting applications from new operators and those seeking to renew their 10-year licence. This is the first formal opportunity for new market entrants this year.

Under the Consolidated Act No 1182 of 22 September 2025 on gambling, the regulator is now empowered to grant permits for land-based casinos with terms of up to ten years. 

Interested companies must submit full applications, including all supporting documentation, by 3 November 2026, Spillemyndigheden said in its notice.

Application process and evaluation criteria

Once received, each land-based licence application will undergo a consultation process involving the relevant local municipality, police chief, the Ministry of Taxation and the Ministry of Business and Industry. The Danish Maritime Authority may also be consulted when relevant.

Operator applications will be judged on their financial soundness, proven experience in the sector, whether they have sufficient liquidity to cover operation costs and by submitting relevant information on company ownership and senior management.

Other evaluation factors included geographical considerations and the proposed target customer base.

Danish land-based landscape

Denmark currently hosts seven active land-based casino licences, with venues located in Copenhagen S, Copenhagen V, Helsingør, Odense, Vejle, Aarhus and Aalborg.

The reopening of the licensing process offers potential for market expansion or changes in ownership structures depending on the total number of permits awarded.

By the end of 2025, Spillemyndigheden had issued a total of 1,970 licences across various gambling categories. 

According to the regulator’s 2025 annual report Spilmarkedet i tal 2025, land-based casinos saw a 5.6% decline with GGR of DKK378 million ($58.26 million), accounting for 3% of the total gambling market.

Newly liberalised land-based bingo appeared for the first time with a modest GGR of DKK30 million (less than 1%). 

The report also highlighted a clear digital shift in Denmark’s landscape. Online casinos generated the highest GGR at DKK4.31 billion (38% of the market), up 12.1% (DKK465 million) year-on-year and more than doubling (+139%) since 2012.

Kathryn Evans

Kathryn covers bitesize breaking news with a primary focus on EMEA and US legislation. A proud North Walian, fluent Welsh speaker and lifelong Wrexham FC fan – long before Hollywood came calling.