The Gambling Tax in the Netherlands in 2026: What’s changing?
Anyone planning to place a bet in 2026 will notice that the gambling tax in the Netherlands has once again been adjusted. Since 1 January 2026, the rate has been set at 37.8%, up from 34.2% in 2025. The government has introduced this increase to generate additional revenue, but for players, very little changes in practice. Just like before, the tax is automatically deducted by the game provider. At Casino777.nl, this means players receive their winnings directly as a net amount — no paperwork or complicated tax forms required.
From 2019 to 2026: How has the Gambling Tax changed?
To put the current rate into perspective, it’s worth looking at how the gambling tax in the Netherlands has evolved over recent years. In 2019, the rate was 30.1%. After online gambling was legalised in 2021, the tax was temporarily reduced to 29%, mainly to give the new online market a strong start. It rose again to 30.5% in 2024, before the government decided in 2025 to increase it significantly to 34.2%. The 37.8% rate in 2026 marks the second and final step in that plan.
Although the rise might seem steep, it’s important to note that this increase primarily affects gambling operators, not players. Gamers will only notice the change indirectly — perhaps through small adjustments to certain promotions. The enjoyment of playing, however, remains the same. Those who gamble responsibly can still enjoy a safe and transparent environment with trusted operators such as Casino777.nl.
Why is the Gambling Tax increasing?
The rise in the gambling tax in the Netherlands is part of a broader fiscal policy. The government aims to raise more revenue from industries that have grown rapidly in recent years — and the gambling sector is one of them. Since the legalisation of online gambling in 2021, government revenue from this tax has nearly tripled. In 2024, the total collected exceeded €1 billion, driven largely by the success of regulated online casinos.
At the same time, responsible gaming has become an increasingly important theme. By tightly regulating the market and ensuring transparent taxation, gambling remains fair and safe. Casino777.nl fully supports this approach, as it helps maintain a healthy gaming culture where fun and responsibility go hand in hand.
Winning in the Netherlands or abroad: What should you know?
If you win a prize in 2026 at a Dutch casino or through a licensed online operator, you don’t have to worry about tax filings. The operator automatically pays the gambling tax on your behalf. This means you receive your winnings straight away, already net of tax.
It’s different, however, for prizes won abroad. If you win at a foreign gambling establishment without a Dutch licence, you’ll need to declare and pay the tax yourself to the Dutch Tax Authority. Within the European Union, there are often exemptions — particularly for physical casinos or sports bets covered by EU regulations. Still, it’s always wise to double-check your situation.
Does it matter where I play: Online or in a Land-Based Casino?
Yes, there are subtle differences. If you play at an online casino licensed by the Dutch Gambling Authority — such as Casino777.nl — you don’t need to file any taxes yourself. Everything is handled automatically, allowing you to play fully within Dutch law. This offers not only convenience but also peace of mind.
The same principle applies to land-based casinos in the Netherlands: the operator pays the gambling tax on behalf of the player. Only those participating in a game of chance outside the Netherlands or through an unlicensed website need to handle the tax themselves.
A conscious look towards the future
Although the gambling tax in the Netherlands is higher in 2026 than ever before, little will change for most players. The increase mainly impacts operators, while the overall market becomes even more secure, transparent, and trustworthy. Casino777.nl encourages all players to continue gambling responsibly. After all, gaming should always be about entertainment, relaxation, and a fair chance to win — exactly as it’s meant to be.
