While some European countries adopted a friendly approach toward the gambling industry to boost their coffers, others imposed strict restrictions. For years, the Norwegian government has kept the gambling industry under a state monopoly. According to Norwegian law, only a handful of gambling activities are regulated.
Despite the country’s efforts to prevent its residents from placing bets at unlicensed offshore virtual casinos, there are plenty of gambling websites that are available in Norwegian and accept payments in Norwegian krone. In this article, we will discuss the ins and outs of the Norwegian gambling industry.
Gambling Regulations in Norway
Norway adopted some of the strictest anti-gambling rules in an attempt to prevent gambling addiction, avoid money laundering, and protect its financial interests. Under Norwegian law, all gambling activities are monopolized by two state-run entities, namely Norsk Tipping and Norsk Rikstoto. The former is in charge of games such as lotteries, sports betting, keno, poker, and scratch card games, while the latter is responsible for horse racing betting. Additionally, individuals under 18 are prohibited from participating in any gambling activities, though this ban does not apply to scratch-off tickets. The country has also adopted a very strict approach toward gambling commercials.
Most forms of gambling are outlawed in Norway, and the few permitted games fall under the state monopoly and are strictly regulated. The Totalisator Act of 1927 was the first piece of legislation that regulated the horse racing betting industry in Norway. Specifically, this Act gave Norsk Rikstoto the power to run the horse racing betting market. The Norwegian gambling regulator, which monitors the market, is overseen by the Ministry of Culture.
The Gaming Act of 1992 gave Norsk Tipping the authority to operate the country’s lotteries, sports betting, keno, and scratch card games. Online poker was added later to the list of games offered by this entity. Three years later, the Lottery Act was introduced to clarify the legality of various forms of lotteries and other games.
In December 2008, the Norwegian Parliament enacted a bill that aimed to prohibit payments from Norway to unlicensed remote gambling sites. In this way, the government hoped to prevent its residents from playing at offshore online casinos. It is important to note that all earnings generated from gambling activities are taxed under Norwegian law.
Norway strictly prohibits land-based casinos. However, a fair number of licensed bingo halls may operate in the country, provided certain requirements are met.
In June 2020, Norway made headlines when the Norwegian Ministry of Culture announced plans to launch a consultation on consolidating the country’s gambling laws into a single statute without removing the monopoly. The consultation will take place on September 29, 2020.
As explained above, not all forms of gambling are restricted in Norway. You can indulge in several gambling activities, including poker, sports betting, horse racing betting, lotteries, bingo, and slots. Notably, the operation of slots is governed by the Lottery Act of 1995.
The slot machine industry is growing at a rapid pace and generates the lion’s share of the country’s gross gaming revenue. However, there is a major loophole in the law, as the Lottery Act grants licenses only to charitable organizations, yet it does not prohibit private entities from running slots if they share the profits with those organizations.
Online Gambling
Despite the country’s strict approach toward gambling, the laws are insufficient to adequately address online gambling. Players from Norway can visit the websites of offshore online casinos, as there are no specific regulations that directly affect online gambling. Moreover, online betting is an extremely popular pastime in Norway due to the lack of land-based casinos.
The only major obstacle for Norwegian players appears to be banking. Under the country’s laws, transferring money between offshore gaming sites and Norway-based bank accounts is prohibited. However, the online casinos that accept players from Norway have adopted safe banking solutions.
Popular Banking Solutions
As we have already explained, Norwegian players do not enjoy complete freedom when making payments to foreign gambling companies. Therefore, casino operators have adopted specific payment solutions that let Norwegians deposit and withdraw money. If you are a Norwegian casino fan, you will be glad to learn that there is a solid selection of reliable and trustworthy payment methods.
Web Wallets
Norwegian players can make deposits and withdrawals through two of the safest electronic wallets, Skrill and Neteller. Launched in 1999, Neteller is now one of the most recognizable e-wallet brands. Skrill is equally reputable, and both options serve casino enthusiasts worldwide.
These e-wallets are convenient because they support both deposits and withdrawals. Transactions are processed quickly, and players do not need to share their banking details with third parties.
Prepaid Cards
Paysafecard is a prepaid payment method available in numerous jurisdictions, including Norway. Launched in 2000, it quickly became a preferred solution for many casino fans. Its popularity comes from providing a safe way to make deposits that are processed instantly. Moreover, transferring funds to your gaming account is extremely easy. Unfortunately, Paysafecard does not support withdrawals, so players must choose another method to cash out their winnings.
Bank Cards
Norwegian players can top up their gaming accounts with Visa or Mastercard, two brands known worldwide. Using bank cards offers several advantages. First, it is easy to find an online casino that accepts Visa and Mastercard. Second, depositing to your gaming account or withdrawing your winnings is straightforward. Third, all transactions are processed securely.
However, this payment method has some drawbacks. Not all online casinos allow withdrawals via Mastercard. In addition, players may have to pay extra fees. Casino enthusiasts also need to provide certain personal details when using Visa or Mastercard. Finally, withdrawals can take up to five business days after the casino approves the request.
Online Banking
WebMoney Transfer is another payment option available to casino enthusiasts from Norway. Although it is not the most popular method, it has a solid base of satisfied users. Originally, WebMoney Transfer was available only to players in Russia.
Today, people from many countries can use it. To get started, you must create an account and provide some basic information. The best part is that WebMoney Transfer supports both deposits and withdrawals.
Cryptocurrencies
Cryptocurrencies have revolutionized the iGaming industry, and many online casinos now accept digital currencies such as Bitcoin, Litecoin, Dogecoin, and others. Some sites even process payments exclusively in cryptocurrency because this approach benefits both operators and players by eliminating processing fees.
Digital currencies also provide a high level of security, and players do not have to share banking details with the casino. To encourage adoption, many casinos offer special bonuses available only to players who deposit with cryptocurrency.
Exclusive Casino Promotions for Norwegian Players
Promotions and bonuses add extra excitement to the gaming experience. With the online gambling industry crowded by countless web-based casinos, finding a site that delivers a first-class gaming experience can be challenging. Promotions are usually the first element that catches a player’s eye when choosing an online casino. Of course, you are not required to play with an active bonus.
Generally, casinos allow you to claim a bonus in one of three ways: activate it manually from your account, enter a promo code provided by the casino, or contact customer support. Let us now explore the exclusive promotions available to Norwegian casino fans.
Welcome Bonus
When you visit a virtual casino, you will probably notice eye-catching signs promoting a Welcome Bonus. This promotion is designed for newly registered players who make their first deposit. Typically, there is a minimum deposit amount you must meet to claim the offer, and Welcome Bonuses are usually expressed as a percentage.
Casino operators also set a maximum amount of bonus funds you can receive, so no matter how much you deposit, you cannot exceed that limit. The Welcome Bonus is often called a match bonus because it matches your first deposit. Some casinos also include free spins as part of the Welcome Package, which must be used on a specific slot game chosen by the operator.
Reload Bonuses
Some online casinos offer bonuses that match the deposits you make after your first one. These Reload Bonuses help maintain players’ interest. Like the Welcome Bonus, they are expressed as a percentage. Reload offers come in various forms and can be very advantageous. Keep in mind that, before claiming a Reload Bonus, you usually must clear the wagering requirements tied to the Welcome Bonus.
No Deposit Bonus
No Deposit Bonuses let players try the casino without making an initial payment. Unfortunately, few casinos offer this incentive because it is more susceptible to bonus abuse. Still, some operators provide such offers as a gesture of goodwill.
If you are looking to claim a No Deposit Bonus, keep in mind that it usually comes as free spins or free chips. Some gambling sites also restrict the games you can play with the bonus. Earnings from No Deposit Bonuses are subject to wagering requirements, and most casinos impose a maximum cash-out limit on winnings generated from the offer.
Cashback Bonuses
The Cashback Bonus has become very popular in recent years, and many casinos have added it to their promotions. As the name implies, it returns a percentage of your net losses. You play with real money, lose a certain amount, and the casino gives part of that money back. The cashback percentage varies from one casino to another. Some operators attach wagering requirements, while others credit the money directly to your cash balance so you can withdraw it immediately.
Loyalty Schemes
Many casinos reward loyal players through structured loyalty schemes. These programs typically feature several tiers, and players earn comp points for every dollar they wager. The more points you accumulate, the higher your VIP level. Points can be exchanged for real money, bonus funds, or other rewards, depending on the casino’s policy. Some casinos enroll you in their VIP program automatically, while others require you to deposit a specific amount within a given timeframe.
Important Bonus-Related Terms
The terms and conditions attached to casino bonuses should never be overlooked. Complying with them ensures you receive the full benefit of any offer you claim. Below, we outline several key concepts that new players might not know.
- Wagering requirement: the number of times you must wager bonus funds before you can withdraw winnings. The requirement can apply to the combined total of your deposit and bonus. If you fail to meet the requirement within the specified timeframe, both the bonus funds and any related winnings will be forfeited.
- Game weighting: different games contribute different percentages toward the wagering requirement. Slots typically count 100%, making them the fastest way to clear the rollover. If a game contributes 50%, every $100 wagered will count as $50 toward the requirement.
- Maximum bet size: many online casinos set a maximum bet per spin or round while a bonus is active. You must stay within this limit while working through the wagering requirement.
- Maximum cash-out limit: some casinos impose a cap on the amount you can withdraw from a bonus. This limit is most common with No Deposit Bonuses but can also apply to Welcome Bonuses or other promotions.
- Expiration date: bonuses are valid only for a set period in which you must meet the wagering requirements to cash out your winnings.
Popular Software Providers
Casino software providers develop the games you love to play. They are responsible for the quality of the games, their features, animations, sound effects, and more. When choosing an online casino, it is wise to review the software suppliers that power the site.
Doing so helps you gauge the reputability and licensing of the companies behind the casino’s content. Most online casinos partner with multiple developers to ensure a diverse gaming portfolio. The most successful sites collaborate with high-profile companies such as:
NetEnt
Play’n GO
Yggdrasil
Microgaming
Evolution Gaming NetEnt
This software company has cemented its position in the market through vast experience and top-quality products. Founded in 1996, it operates under a license from the UK Gambling Commission, one of the most reputable regulators.
NetEnt offers an extensive portfolio that includes slots, progressive jackpots, scratch cards, classic table games, and live casino games. The developer optimizes its titles for mobile play, so players enjoy the same quality on any screen size. In 2018, NetEnt signed a deal with Norsk Tipping to supply select games.
Play’n GO
The Sweden-based software supplier was founded in 2005 and has since become one of the most prominent companies in iGaming. Its portfolio overflows with titles across multiple genres, and the quality remains superb even on smartphones and tablets.
To keep things fresh, the provider follows the latest trends that interest players and weaves them into its slots. Play’n GO holds a license from the Malta Gaming Authority, and its main goal is to provide a fair and enjoyable gaming environment.
Yggdrasil
The best software companies never rest on their laurels, and Yggdrasil is no exception. This supplier not only provides diverse gaming products to online casinos but also ensures first-class quality and an exciting player experience. Founded in 2013, the company is licensed by the Malta Gaming Authority.
Yggdrasil focuses on innovation, delivering games with engaging features and high-quality graphics. Its products are a must-have for any self-respecting online casino.
Microgaming
is based in the Isle of Man and is renowned for its progressive jackpot slots, especially Mega Moolah. Established in 1994, the company holds a license from the UK Gambling Commission. This license requires adherence to strict rules, giving players confidence in the fairness of its games.
Unsurprisingly, Microgaming has received numerous accolades. Although the company focuses on slots, it also offers other gaming options.
Evolution Gaming
is a software company dedicated to providing games with cinematic-quality graphics. Launched in 2006, Evolution has since cemented its position in the market and is now regarded as a model of excellence.
Evolution’s live dealer games are among the most sought-after on the market and are compatible with Android and iOS devices. The company is licensed by the Malta Gaming Authority, and an independent third party regularly audits its games for fairness.
Top 10 Online Casinos in Norway
Online gambling is a popular pastime because it lets players enjoy their favorite games without leaving home. Many virtual casinos even offer demo modes, allowing you to practice in a risk-free environment.
The first step when you decide to play online is to choose a safe and secure casino. Check the site’s license and reputation, and review the software providers behind its games.
You should also confirm that the casino offers reliable customer support and secure banking solutions. Because online gambling is meant to be fun, make sure the site provides a diverse selection of games. To help you get started, we have compiled a list of reputable gaming sites that welcome players from Norway.
Yako Casino
888Casino
Slots Magic
Fun Casino
Casino Joy
SlotV Casino
playOjo Casino
BitStarz Casino
LeoVegas Casino
Videoslots Casino Yako Casino
Yako Casino is widely recognized as one of the top online casinos. Launched in 2015, it operates under licenses from the Malta Gaming Authority, the UK Gambling Commission, and the Swedish Gaming Authority, ensuring a fair and trustworthy environment.
When depositing real money at Yako Casino, you can choose from several reliable banking options. Withdrawal methods are more limited but still sufficient to meet most players’ needs.
The casino features a diverse lineup of games, including slots, classic table games, video poker, jackpot titles, and live dealer games. Its content is provided by Microgaming, NetEnt, Evolution, Play’n GO, Amatic Industries, and others. Lucrative bonuses give you yet another reason to try your luck at Yako Casino.
888Casino
If you are familiar with the best online casinos for Norwegian players, you have likely heard of 888Casino. Launched in 1997, it is one of the oldest sites on the market, yet its gaming products remain cutting edge.
The operator partners with premier software providers such as NetEnt, Playtech, Yggdrasil, and Blueprint Gaming, delivering a peerless selection of games. Slot fans will appreciate the extensive lineup of high-quality titles. The casino also supports a solid array of payment solutions, making it easy to manage your funds.
888Casino offers a range of bonuses, with the Welcome Bonus being especially lucrative. The site holds licenses from the United Kingdom, Gibraltar, and New Jersey.
Slots Magic
Slots Magic was relaunched in 2014 with a bang, offering an abundant selection of games developed by top providers such as Microgaming, NetEnt, Evolution, NYX, and Play’n GO. These games run smoothly on modern touchscreen devices, so you can enjoy your favorites on the go. The casino’s wide range of payment solutions also ensures convenience for players.
Slots Magic operates under a license from the Malta Gaming Authority and provides reliable customer support to guarantee a hassle-free experience.
The site does an excellent job of catering to both newcomers and seasoned players, offering various promotions and bonuses. Its website is easy to navigate, and the platform is available in several languages.
Fun Casino
Since its inception in 2014, Fun Casino has skyrocketed in popularity, successfully delivering a top-tier gambling experience for Norwegian players. The site holds licenses from the Malta Gaming Authority, the UK Gambling Commission, and the Swedish Gaming Authority.
Fun Casino’s portfolio spans multiple genres, with the slots category alone featuring more than 700 titles. Its content comes from premier suppliers such as Microgaming, NetEnt, Evolution, and Blueprint.
Players can choose from several banking methods, including bank cards, e-wallets, online banking services, and bank transfers. Generous bonuses are available to both new and existing customers. In short, Fun Casino provides an experience that rivals the industry’s major contenders.
Casino Joy
Casino Joy is a relative newcomer, having launched in 2018, but its short history does not limit what it offers. The casino collaborates with leading developers such as Microgaming, NetEnt, Yggdrasil, Play’n GO, and Evolution Gaming, delivering a remarkable lineup of more than 700 titles. While the number of games may not be the highest in the industry, their quality is outstanding.
The site also offers a generous Welcome Bonus that covers your first four deposits. Casino Joy operates under licenses from the Malta Gaming Authority, the UK Gambling Commission, and the Swedish Gambling Authority.
Customer support is available 24/7 via email, live chat, and telephone.
SlotV Casino
SlotV Casino is a top destination for slots as well as table games, video poker, jackpot titles, and live dealer games. The operator collaborates with numerous software companies, including NetEnt, Microgaming, Play’n GO, Betsoft, Evolution Gaming, and Yggdrasil, all known for outstanding quality.
SlotV supports a wide range of payment options—Visa, Mastercard, Neteller, Skrill, and ecoPayz, to name a few—though not every method handles both deposits and withdrawals. The casino is licensed by the Malta Gaming Authority and, as an international site, is available in several languages.
If you are thinking about joining SlotV Casino, check out its promotions. The Welcome Package includes three deposit bonuses plus free spins, and additional offers, including a cashback bonus, are available to regular players.
playOjo Casino
PlayOjo Casino has made a splash since its launch in 2017, offering an unbeatable lineup of cutting-edge games. Through partnerships with Evolution Gaming, NYX, NetEnt, Play’n GO, Yggdrasil, and others, the site delivers an impressive catalog.
All games are compatible with Android and iOS devices, and iOS users can download a dedicated app for even easier access. The casino is proud of its generous promotions, including a Free Spins Welcome Bonus for new players.
Licensed by the Malta Gaming Authority, PlayOjo enjoys a strong reputation in many countries, including Norway. It supports multiple currencies, and its platform is available in several languages, Norwegian among them.
BitStarz Casino
BitStarz Casino launched in 2014 with the goal of becoming a globally respected gambling site. To that end, it partners with high-profile software suppliers such as NetEnt, Betsoft, Evolution, Play’n GO, Ezugi, and Yggdrasil to create a first-class gaming catalog.
The casino currently offers more than 1,300 slot games, along with table games, video poker, jackpot titles, and a live dealer suite.
BitStarz supports a wide range of popular banking methods and also accepts major cryptocurrencies. According to its website, it is a multi-award-winning Bitcoin casino.
Robust security systems protect every transaction. Newcomers can claim a generous Welcome Bonus that matches their first four deposits, and regular players will find plenty of ongoing incentives.
LeoVegas Casino
LeoVegas Casino debuted in 2012 with the aim of becoming the leading choice for mobile players, and it has achieved that goal, earning the nickname “King of Mobile Casino”. Desktop users are also welcome. The site’s portfolio features top-shelf titles from developers such as Microgaming, NetEnt, Playtech, Play’n GO, Yggdrasil, and Evolution.
LeoVegas operates under licenses from the Malta Gaming Authority, the UK Gambling Commission, the Danish Gambling Authority, and the Swedish Gambling Authority. Norwegian players can deposit and withdraw in their local currency.
While the library lacks video poker, it compensates with more than 600 slot games, plus several table games and progressive jackpots.
Videoslots Casino
Videoslots Casino went online in 2011 and features a modern, energetic design with a well-organized interface that makes navigation easy. The casino partners with more than a dozen reputable software companies, including Microgaming, Playtech, Betsoft, NetEnt, and iSoftBet, resulting in first-class gaming content. Slot enthusiasts will find over 3,000 titles with engaging storylines and crisp graphics.
Beyond its unrivaled slot collection, the casino offers table games, video poker, jackpot titles, and live dealer games. Videoslots caters to Norwegian players by allowing deposits and withdrawals in their currency, and the platform is available in Norwegian.
Newcomers are greeted with a generous Welcome Bonus that doubles their first deposit. The site is regulated by the Malta Gaming Authority, the UK Gambling Commission, and the Swedish Gaming Authority, ensuring reliability.
Ask a Question. Get an Answer.
Have a question about this topic? Ask an expert at info@supercasinosites.com
Find the answers of questions people asked so far:
Did the Gambling Act of 2021 change anything about the online gambling legal status in Norway?
Although the Gambling Act was amended in 2021, it did not bring any significant changes to online gambling in Norway. The Act allows online gambling, but only through state-owned operators. State-run websites can offer sports betting, lottery games, and keno. Unfortunately, poker and slots are not among the online casino games legalized in Norway.
The law also introduced additional player restrictions, including limits on the time spent on these sites and the amounts Norwegians can wager.
Can Norwegian players use NOK as their preferred currency at online casinos?
Yes. Many online casinos that welcome Norwegian players aim to provide a seamless experience, especially when it comes to payments. Consequently, they often accept deposits and withdrawals in NOK, eliminating currency conversion fees. Cashing out in the same currency makes play even more convenient. Some casinos also offer a full Norwegian language interface, giving players a platform tailored to their needs.
If online gambling has been legalized in Norway, why do so many players from the country choose to play illegally at offshore casinos?
Although online gambling is legal in Norway, it can be offered only by the state-owned operators Norsk Tipping and Norsk Rikstoto. The range of legal products is limited to lotteries, a few keno games, and sports betting. Offshore casinos, by contrast, provide a much wider selection of games. They also give players a chance to pursue larger progressive jackpots, with prize pools built across multiple sites that can reach several million in a single spin. Finally, strict Norwegian regulations prevent domestic sites from offering generous promotions, whereas foreign casinos regularly advertise welcome bonuses, free spins, and cashback deals.