Sweden bans land-based casinos and tightens credit card gambling rules by 2026
Sweden's gambling landscape is set to change significantly from 2026. The government has voted to abolish land-based casinos, leading to their closure by the end of 2025. From 1 January 2026, land-based casinos will be officially banned, marking a significant shift in the country's gambling scene.
Despite the closure of physical casinos, gambling revenue in Sweden has shown resilience. In Q3 2025, total revenue increased by 0.5% year-on-year to SEK6.71 billion ($712.6 million). This growth was primarily driven by the iGaming market, with commercial online gambling contributing SEK4.51 billion, a 3.5% increase from the previous year.
However, land-based gambling revenue continued its downward trend, decreasing by 7.2% year-on-year to SEK1.26 billion. This decline reflects the ongoing shift towards online platforms. The quarter also saw a 4.4% decrease in revenue compared to Q2 2025, with total revenue standing at SEK7.02 billion.
To combat gambling with credit, licensees and agents are required to take preventive measures. This includes blocking credit card payments, a move aimed at curbing problem gambling. From 1 April 2026, gambling with credit will be strictly banned, including credit agreements with other actors.
The ban on land-based casinos and the introduction of stricter credit gambling rules in Sweden signal a significant shift in the country's gambling landscape. While online gambling continues to grow, the government's focus on responsible gambling is clear. As the industry evolves, it will be crucial to monitor the impact of these changes on both revenue and consumer behaviour.
