Sweden's licence reform: a strategic opportunity for online casinos

Sweden’s gambling market is undergoing significant transformation. With new legislation targeting unlicensed operators, enhanced player protections and the recent decision to close all land-based casinos by 2026, the industry is clearly changing direction. Central to these changes is the updated fee structure for gambling licences, implemented at the beginning of 2025.

From my industry perspective, these regulatory changes represent a positive development, particularly for new online casino operators considering the Swedish market. The shifting market presents both challenges and opportunities that deserve thoughtful consideration.

Clearer costs, fewer surprises

The annual licence fee for online operators – maintained at SEK264,000 (£20,500) for 2025 – represents a significant improvement over the previous system. Previously, operators faced a complex fee structure with different layers depending on service types offered, requiring extensive regulatory interpretation and legal consultation. For new casino brands, the current simplified fee provides stable financial expectations and makes it easier to plan and evaluate Sweden’s market viability. While not insignificant, this predictable fee structure eliminates the ambiguity that once made it difficult for smaller operators to determine profitability, which is particularly valuable for companies contemplating market entry.

A good time to enter the market

Players in Sweden are receptive to new casinos (known locally as nya casinon) that offer distinctive features. This creates opportunities for new online casinos to introduce fresh experiences such as improved design, simplified navigation, faster withdrawals or a more attractive welcome bonus. With the new fee structure in place, we anticipate more operators will pursue licences, thereby creating benefits across the board. Players gain more options and trusted platforms, like ours, can help them discover and evaluate these choices responsibly.

This transition also shows that Sweden is committed to maintaining a well-regulated market that welcomes new companies prepared to follow the rules and deliver quality user experiences.

Progress in the right direction

Sweden’s updated licence fees won’t resolve every industry challenge but they represent progress. For new online casinos aiming to grow in a well-regulated, engaged market, the message is clear: now is an opportune time to enter.

At CasinoPro.se, we anticipate welcoming more licensed operators that will bring innovation to Swedish players. Our role is to provide honest, transparent information about licensed operators to help players make informed choices – and with these changes, we believe the market is moving in a positive direction.

About CasinoPro.se

CasinoPro.se is operated by a dedicated team with extensive igaming experience and passion for online gaming. The site combines expert knowledge with a clear mission: to serve as Sweden’s leading online casino guide. Whether visitors seek information about online casinos, bonuses, slots or strategy guides, CasinoPro.se strives to be the definitive platform for Swedish players.

Johan Svensson is one of Raketech’s founders and was the CEO of Raketech Group Holding PLC until 2017 when he was appointed chief commercial officer (until 2019). After a few years, with a focus on M&A, business integrations and as chief commercial officer he assumed once again the role as CEO (acting) in 2024.