Academic regulatory update
Netherlands KSA 2026 player protection and affordability supervision
The KSA’s 2026 agenda increases attention to illegal supply and player protection. Its July update explains expectations for affordability checks.
2026
The 20 January 2026 agenda names illegal gambling, vulnerable groups, duty of care, advertising and Wwft compliance as five priorities; a player-protection department began in January 2026.
Since October 2024 an affordability check is required above €300 net deposits for ages 18–24 or €700 from age 24. These are regulatory triggers, not safe-spending promises.
After samples at 20 licensees, KSA reported ten improvement meetings, three warnings and one binding instruction. Savings must not be counted; assessment should use structural income. Further samples are planned.
Reader checklist
- Verify the age band and €300 or €700 trigger.
- Expect evidence of structural income, not savings.
- Check current KSA guidance because supervision can evolve.
Responsible-gambling frame
A regulatory threshold is not a personal budget. Choose a lower limit where appropriate, stop after losses, and use blocks or self-exclusion when needed.
Do savings count in the affordability assessment?
No. KSA’s 2 July 2026 update says liquid assets such as savings should be excluded and the assessment based on structural income.
Official sources
- https://kansspelautoriteit.nl/toezichtagenda-2026-meer-focus-op-illegaliteit-en-spelersbescherming
- https://kansspelautoriteit.nl/kansspelautoriteit-actualiseert-richtlijnen-voor-uitvoering-draagkrachttoets
Educational summary only; not legal advice. Rules and supervision can change; check the regulator and seek qualified advice for a specific case.