Menu

Best Sports Betting Sites in the Netherlands

Top 3 Bookies in Netherlands
4.4

100% up to $500
New customers only! Please bet responsibly, begambleaware.org. 18+. Full T&Cs apply.
4.2

50% up to $1000
Earn a 50% Welcome Bonus up to $1,000 on your first-ever deposit at BetOnline. Use code BOL1000 and your extra 50% will be added to your sports betting bankroll instantly! Full T&Cs apply
4.2

50% up to $1000
Earn a 50% Welcome Bonus up to $1,000 on your first-ever deposit at Jazz Sports. Use Promo Code JAZZ50 and your extra 50% will be added to your sports betting balance. Full T&Cs apply
flag usPlayers from United States accepted
Tim Harrison
Until a few years ago, the online betting scene in the Netherlands was all over the place, but it all changed in 2021 when the government fully legalized gambling and online betting. However, the whole landscape still needs to be cleaned, as many rules and exceptions exist. Those who want to bet in the Netherlands should know everything about it.

This article takes a closer look at the sports gambling scene in the Netherlands and provides all the answers you need, including answers to 3 key questions:

  • Which Dutch betting sites are available?
  • Which are the best betting sites in the Netherlands?
  • What are interesting facts about online betting in the Netherlands?

Full List of the Best Netherlands Betting Sites

Before 2021, Netherlands' online betting industry was a monopoly as only one betting operator could offer betting markets to Dutch bettors. But even then, many international sportsbooks were accessible nationwide.

100% up to $500
T&Cs Apply
check iconMany bonuses
check icon24/7 support
check iconMobile apps
50% up to $1000
T&Cs Apply
check icon24/7 support
check iconWelcome offers
check iconMobile apps
50% up to $1000
T&Cs Apply
check iconWelcome offers
check iconEsports market
check iconLive streaming
-
T&Cs Apply
check icon24/7 support
check iconLoyalty program
check iconMany bonuses
100% up to $1000
T&Cs Apply
check iconVarious bet types
check icon24/7 support
check iconGreat markets
100% up to $500
T&Cs Apply
check iconMany bonuses
check iconFast payouts
check iconPrematch line
100% up to $1000
T&Cs Apply
check iconGreat markets
check iconWelcome offers
check iconHigh odds
First Deposit Bonus 125% up to $1000
T&Cs Apply
check iconWelcome offers
check icon20+ sports offers
check iconGreat support
-
T&Cs Apply
check iconCompetitive odds
check iconGreat sports marke
check iconCash out
50% up to $1000
T&Cs Apply
check icon24/7 support
check iconMany payment optio
check icon15+ sports

So even though the recent legislation has kept the availability of some betting brands the same, it has put the Netherlands on the map for other international sportsbooks to notice. And this has led to a big supr of new international bookmakers in the Netherlands.

Nowadays, Dutch bettors have more than enough bookmakers available to them, and since there is no law prohibiting the use of international bookies, the offer is bigger than ever. Yet, while many sportsbooks are available, there is a big difference between the average and the best sports betting sites in the Netherlands, and we'll learn how to differentiate between the two later in this article.

How to Sign Up to a Top Dutch Betting Site

Signing up with any betting site in the Netherlands is very easy, and the whole process is no different than if you were to register with a sportsbook from another European country. So as long as aspiring bettors have the needed details ready, stable internet, and access to a mobile phone or a computer, it takes a couple of minutes to set up an account.

Open an Account

To register for an account with any of the best sports betting sites in the Netherlands, you first need to visit the bookmaker you want to join and navigate to the “Sign Up” or “Register” button. It will begin the registration process, where you must provide personal information.

Enter Account Information

During registration, bettors will be asked to provide details, including account name, email, full name, date of birth, and address. Usually, the registration is very straightforward; however, some Netherlands bookmakers will also ask for a picture of your documents to verify your identity.

After submitting all the information, bettors need to verify the account via a verification link sent to their email. It will enable the account and make it possible to make the first deposit.

Deposit Funds

With an account set up, it's time to log in by simply providing the account name and password. Then it's time to make a deposit, which is another very straightforward process since the sportsbooks like to make it as simple as possible.

To deposit money, navigate to the sportsbooks' banking tab and select “deposit.” You must pick the preferred payment method and input the desired amount there.

The speed at which the payment will be processed will vary depending on the betting sites in the Netherlands and the payment option selected. E-wallets are typically the fastest, whereas bank transfers are usually the slowest.

Go to the Sportsbook and Place a Bet

With money in your betting account at Dutch betting sites, all you can do is scout through the available sports gambling markets, place a bet, wait for the event to end, and repeat the process until you withdraw your winnings.

Tips on Choosing a Good Betting Site in the Netherlands

There are so many betting sites in the Netherlands that deciding which one to use takes time. However, before registering with any bookmaker, it's wise to make sure it's the best one for you, and there are a few simple factors we can check to recognize which is an average, bad, and the best betting site in the Netherlands.

Criteria Explanations
Safety Safety should be any bettor's priority, so we must use only safe betting sites in the Netherlands. The easiest way to ensure that the sportsbook is safe is to check whether it has a valid betting license and a good reputation, and if it checks both marks, you can rest assured that your money and personal information will stay safe.
Currency A good bookmaker has to have a solid banking department, which is why all of the best Netherlands bookmakers have many payment options and accept a wide range of currencies, granted the latter factor isn't as important when picking the best betting sites in the Netherlands, since most of the deposits in the country are made with Euro.
Shop Around for the Best Odds A very important factor to check when picking the best Dutch sportsbook is the quality of the odds it offers. The best online betting sites in the Netherlands will have the best odds, and from a bettor's perspective, quality odds offer a lot of value as they ensure a better chance to secure long-term profits.
Welcome Bonus Betting bonus offers a lot of value to bettors, so it's wise to register with the sportsbook, which has good promotions and bonuses. It's important to remember that quality odds will always be more important than generous bonuses. Still, the latter can be used to secure a profit, mainly through matched betting.
Stick to Sports You Know Those who are into football betting don't have to look too far to find bookmakers in the Netherlands which offer the betting markets they want. Still, for those who prefer to bet on more niche markets, it's wise to check if the bookmaker you want to register with has them available.
Bankroll Management Knowing how to manage your bankroll is a big factor in any bettor's long-term success, and the best betting sites in the Netherlands should have tools to help you with it. That includes higher deposit and withdrawal limits and a history of all deposits and withdrawals to help you keep track of the money earned and spent.
Usability All of the best bookmakers and betting apps in the Netherlands have to offer a good user experience, meaning that they work without any issues and are designed well. Although most of that comes down to personal preference, it's wise to check any bookmaker or a betting app to see if it works as intended without crashes.
Mobile Features Mobile betting is becoming increasingly popular, and nowadays, bookmakers are expected to offer a way for their customers to bet from their phones. All do, but mostly by offering a mobile website is not enough. The best Dutch bookmakers will also offer a mobile betting app, which will be very useful for mobile bettors, who should watch for the best betting app in the Netherlands. For casual bettors, simply having the app available is good enough.
User Reviews The security of a bookmaker is important, but so is its reputation, so before we register with any of the available betting sites in the Netherlands, it's wise to check user reviews. Even though some bookmakers are legit and safe, they might not have the best reviews or reputation, which will tell you they lack in some areas that aren't obvious at first glance.

The Best Betting Bonuses & Offers for Dutch Bettors

Betting bonuses and promotions are nowadays mandatory for all modern bookmakers, and for the most part, all sportsbooks have them. That includes all betting sites in the Netherlands, which can offer users various bonuses and promotions without any restrictions.

100% up to $500
New customers only! Please bet responsibly, begambleaware.org. 18+. Full T&Cs apply.
50% up to $1000
Earn a 50% Welcome Bonus up to $1,000 on your first-ever deposit at BetOnline. Use code BOL1000 and your extra 50% will be added to your sports betting bankroll instantly! Full T&Cs apply
50% up to $1000
Earn a 50% Welcome Bonus up to $1,000 on your first-ever deposit at Jazz Sports. Use Promo Code JAZZ50 and your extra 50% will be added to your sports betting balance. Full T&Cs apply
-
-
100% up to $1000
Register and get up to $1000 bonus in five steps. Full T&Cs apply
100% up to $500
Join today and make a deposit to receive an incredible 200% Welcome Bonus. Play responsibly. Full T&Cs apply.

So as long as you're old enough to bet online in the Netherlands and have a betting account with any of the available Netherlands bookmakers, nothing is stopping you from taking advantage of all the bonuses and promotions it has; however, it's worth noting that some bookmakers do a better job with their betting bonus offers than others.

Welcome bonuses and free bets are two of the most common offers and two of the easiest to obtain since the bettor doesn't have to do extra work to grab them. Conversely, various promotions, enhanced odds, cashback, and other offers might ask the punter to opt-in manually; however, this will vary depending on the betting site and the offer.

Welcome Offers

The welcome offers are the most common promotions on all betting sites in the Netherlands. As the name suggests, the welcome bonus is designed only for new customers, and its main purpose is to attract new bettors to the platform.

The welcome offers can be one of many things, including matched deposit bonus, free online casino spins, free bets, free wagering cash, and more. However, while the sportsbooks approach welcome bonuses differently, the most common are matched deposit bonuses.

Match Deposit Bonuses

The match deposit bonus is a popular offer on nearly all sports gambling sites, most commonly as a part of the welcome offer. If it's part of the welcome offer, the match deposit bonus is a one-time thing, available only for new customers who receive extra wagering cash with their first deposit.

Betting sites in the Netherlands typically have a 100% matched deposit bonus, which doubles the bettor's first deposit by giving him free wagering cash of the same size as his initial deposit. So if you deposit €1000 with a 100% matched deposit bonus, you can get up to €1000 in free wagering cash as extra – granted, the maximum amount bettors can get will vary and be limited.

No-Deposit Bonuses

No deposit bonuses are all given to the bettors without making a deposit. That usually includes offers given to existing users, such as enhanced odds, insurance bets, free bets, and other bonuses that are tier-automatically given to the bettors or need to be claimed under the promotions tab.

Free Bets

Free bets are one of the most common offers bookmakers give to existing users and are highly valuable. Bookmakers like Bet365 will regularly have a free bet offer, essentially Bet365 offering their customers free wagering cash, which can be used to bet on any sport.

The size of the free bet is usually dictated by the bettor's average bet with the website. So if you regularly bet with €10, the bookmaker will offer €10 in free bets a few times per year (depending on your activity), but even that has an upper limit – depending on which Dutch betting sites we use.

Cashback

Cashback is a simple promotion, typically available for the most active punters. As the name suggests, with a cashback offer, bettors can get a portion (or whole) of their wager returned if their bets don't hit.

Cashback promotions are typically available during important sporting events and often come with some restrictions. Those apply to the size of the wager and markets on which the cashback is available.

VIP Offers

VIP Offers are the least common form of promotion, typically available only on the best betting sites in the Netherlands. However, while rare, VIP programs are the most valuable for active bettors.

The VIP offers work on a level system, where the higher your level, the more rewards you can get. And the only way to reach higher levels is to be an active bettor on the platform.

The rewards VIP offers will vary, from free bets, lower limits, higher money transfers, enhanced odds, free vacation, hotel gift cards, and even tickets to important sporting events.

Bet of the Day for the Netherlands

The Netherlands has a nicely developed online betting industry, which works without any major restrictions and has one of the most liberal approaches in Europe. Not only are there more than enough betting websites in the Netherlands, but the sportsbooks also do a fine job with their betting market offer.

WHAT IS THE BEST BET FOR TODAY?

Moreover, the local bookmakers take extra care to provide markets on all domestic tournaments and leagues, and it's not too uncommon to find extra betting markets for Dutch athletes, especially if they compete in major events.

Bet on Sports

Sports are a big part of the Netherlands' culture, so it's unsurprising to learn that sports betting is very popular in the country. Interestingly, the Netherlands' sports betting is diverse and includes a dozen sports, largely thanks to the fact that Dutch athletes have achieved much success across several sports and disciplines.

But there's no hiding that a few sports stand above all else as the most popular in viewership and the betting handle on Dutch bookmakers. That includes football, UFC, cycling, field hockey, and swimming.

Football

Football betting is very popular in the Netherlands, and understandably so. Football is by far the most popular sport in the world and has the largest betting handle out of all sports available on sports gambling websites, so naturally, it's a big deal in the Netherlands.

All betting sites in the Netherlands will have football betting markets, and they do a good job of covering just about any major football competition there is, including all major European leagues and the domestic Eredivisie.

Tennis

Tennis is another highly popular sport in the global betting industry and, naturally, a very popular sport among Dutch bettors. Like football, tennis enjoys good coverage by all Netherlands sports betting sites, so whether you want to bet on Grand Slams, ATP 500, or any lesser, even domestic tennis tournaments, it's easy to find betting markets.

Golf

The Netherlands is not exactly known to produce elite golfers, but that doesn't take away from the fact that golf is a very popular sport among Dutch bettors. As one of the most enjoyable and profitable sports, all golf tournaments are well-covered by all online betting sites in the Netherlands.

Field Hockey

Ice hockey is a niche sport in online betting, but not in the Netherlands. Dutch is known as one of the best field hockey nations, so it's hardly shocking that most Dutch bettors like to bet on it.

And due to the high demand for field hockey betting, all betting sites in the Netherlands have excellent coverage of field hockey tournaments, including national leagues and international events. Moreover, it's easy to find betting promotions and bonuses at field hockey events.

Cycling

The Netherlands is known for many things, and that includes cycling. The Netherlands has the most bicycles per capita out of any country in the world, and unsurprisingly, the country is home to some of the best professional cyclists in the world.

So it's normal to learn that cycling betting is highly popular and easily accessible on all betting sites in the Netherlands, even though it's a niche sport for betting across most other nations.

Darts

Dutch bettors' obsession with betting on niche markets doesn't stop with cycling but extends to darts. Once again, this has to do mainly with the fact that the Netherlands is home to some of the best darts players in the world, and the country also hosts many of the world's biggest darts tournaments (Dutch Open).

And since there is such a high demand for darts betting, all Dutch bookmakers have Darts betting markets.

Basketball

Basketball joins the long list of popular sports among Dutch bettors, and since basketball is one of the biggest sports in the world, it's, as expected, extremely well covered by all Dutch bookmakers. The options are endless if you want to bet on the local Dutch Basketball League, EuroLeague, or the NBA.

Volleyball

The Netherlands used to be extremely good at volleyball. While the nation has yet to achieve much international success in the last decade, volleyball remains a popular sport among the Netherlands' bettors. And like all other popular sports in the country, volleyball is well covered by Dutch bookmakers, making it very simple to bet on the sport regardless of which sportsbook we choose.

Politics

The Netherlands has less active politics than the USA, but it's still possible to bet on Dutch politics with the best betting sites in the Netherlands. Although the political betting markets are less commonly available than sports betting markets, they regularly open during the presidential and other political races.

Esports

Over the last 2 decades, Esports betting has become very popular and is just as easily accessible as sports betting. And while most of the world became accustomed to Esports betting, the Netherlands didn't stay immune to the new trend.

The Netherlands has fewer star players but is home to Team Liquid and millions of Esports fans who don't shy away from placing a Netherland bet on their favourite team. And that's easily achievable since most betting sites offer Esports betting in the Netherlands.

Bet on Competitions

Sports are very popular in the Netherlands, so it's unsurprising that the country organizes many sports competitions yearly, including lesser domestic events such as NK tegenwindfietsen, Klootschieten, and Beugelen.

Even though most are not included on betting sites, many local competitions are played internationally and will have betting markets available.

Bet on Tournaments

The Netherlands is home to many world-class sports leagues and tournaments, which includes the Eredivisie, Dutch Basketball League (DBL), the Dutch Volleyball League, and more.

And since those are some of the strongest sports leagues in Europe, they're all well covered by Dutch bookmakers and international sportsbooks alike.

Bet on Dutch Teams

Many of the world's top sports teams hail from the Netherlands, and since they compete in some of Europe's biggest sports leagues, it's very easy for Dutch bettors to bet on them. Moreover, some betting sites in the Netherlands will have special markets and promotions for when Dutch teams play, making it both more accessible and more advantageous for local bettors to place bets on their favourite teams.

Some of the Netherlands' most popular sports teams include Dynamo Apeldoorn, Heroes Den Bosch, ZZ Leiden, Abiant Lycurgus Groningen, and Feyenoord.

Bet on Dutch Players

Those who want to bet on Dutch players and athletes will have many options since many of the Netherlands' top athletes compete at the highest level. The list includes Max Verstappen, Ireen Wüst, Virgil van Dijk, Memphis Depay, Mathieu Van der Poel, and many more.

It's also not uncommon to find betting sites in the Netherlands to offer special promotions and betting markets on Dutch athletes to incentivize Dutch bettors to back their local players; however, those offers will be available mainly on the bigger sporting events.

How to Choose the Best Bookmakers in the Netherlands

The Netherlands has no laws prohibiting Dutch bettors from registering with any available bookmaker, even if the sportsbook doesn't have a local betting license, so there are plenty of options for anyone looking for a sportsbook. However, while hundreds of sportsbooks are available for Dutch bettors, it's important to know which are the best betting sites in the Netherlands and which are better left alone.

And to do so quickly and efficiently, there are a few things any bettor should check.

  • Safety – above all, the most important factor to check with all Netherlands bookmakers before setting up an account is whether they're safe, as this is the only way to ensure your money and personal information won't get exposed to scammers.
  • A good reputation is just as important as ensuring a sportsbook is secure. Even though some betting sites might be licensed and legal, they also might not have a good reputation due to shady past, poor customer support, or other reasons.
  • Quality odds – one of the most important things a good bookmaker should have is competitive betting odds since those will dictate how much profit a bettor can expect to earn long-term. Even though you need multiple betting accounts to ensure access to the best odds, it's wise to trust only those betting sites with above-average offers.
  • Enough betting markets – just as critical for an enjoyable betting experience as good odds, is solid market coverage, so we can bet on whatever we like.
  • Good customer support – even though most bettors won't ever need to contact a customer support agent, it's advantageous to register with a bookmaker with good support. This way, you can ensure that any issues you encounter will be resolved quickly and efficiently without any hassle.
  • Mobile app availability – all of the best betting sites in the Netherlands will have a mobile app available, which is extremely useful for mobile bettors, but has perks for those who prefer to bet on a computer.
  • Payment options – a good bookmaker will have a solid banking department with enough payment and withdrawal options, fast money transfers, and low fees.

Finding a bookmaker that checks those marks is a good option for anyone who wants to bet from the Netherlands. But it's important to note that having multiple betting accounts with several bookmakers is highly advantageous, as this is the only way you can line shop and find the best available betting odds on the markets you want to bet on.

All top legal betting sites in the Netherlands offer plenty of payment options to customers, not limited to deposit and withdrawal options. The selection includes all the traditional payment methods on international betting websites and a few local-favorite payment options.

Three of the popular payment options for Dutch bookmakers include:

  • Cashlib is a prepaid voucher used mainly in the Netherlands and France, which has become very popular among Dutch bettors because it's an accepted payment option for most bookmakers. As a prepaid voucher, Cashlib is also a great option for those who need help with bankroll management while offering fast and safe deposits.
  • iDeal – is a Dutch banking option used all over the Netherlands as the preferred payment method for online purchases. It is also one of the safest payment options since the government regulates it. It has fast deposits and is available via a mobile app.
  • Zimpler is a very popular payment method in Scandinavia and the Netherlands, which offers high security and is one of the fastest deposits out of all available payment options. The only downside is that some Zimpler bookmakers won't allow bettors to withdraw with it.

Withdrawal options in the Netherlands are more limited than deposit options, but that's not exclusive to Dutch sportsbooks. And while there are fewer withdrawal options than methods to fund your betting account, there are still plenty enough not to make withdrawing an issue.

Some of the popular withdrawal options on betting sites in the Netherlands include:

  • Bank transfers – a more traditional method for withdrawing money – are extremely safe but slower than other options.
  • E-wallets – are the most popular withdrawal method for withdrawing money, mainly due to their speed.
  • Crypto is a fast and secure option that all bookmakers do not accept.

The Best Dutch Mobile Betting Sites and Apps

Over the last decade, mobile betting has become very popular mainly because everyone can access a smartphone. And since many people started to bet from their phones due to how convenient it is, the sportsbooks had to find a way to meet the growing demand for sports betting.

Unfortunately, there are no betting sites relevant to your request. Please take a look at the top-rated bookmakers in your country.
100% up to $600
T&Cs Apply
Yes
Up to 180% bonus on 1st deposit
T&Cs Apply
Yes
Cash Rebate Bonus: Enjoy up to 25% Cash
Yes

Nowadays, all bookmakers have a mobile website that bettors can use to bet from their phones, but those who exclusively bet from their mobile devices should instead look for a bookmaker that offers a mobile app.

Unlike a mobile website, mobile apps are more stable, more convenient to use, and designed to work well on phones. Moreover, mobile apps have all the features you would find on a normal website and more, as some offer special app-exclusive promotions and bonuses.

Solely due to the app-exclusive bonuses and promotions, it's recommended for all bettors to consider using bookmakers that have a mobile app available. Luckily, most of the best betting sites in the Netherlands have that option, including Bet365, William Hill, Sporting Bet, Livescore Bet, and GGBet.

Dutch bettors aren't limited in what sports they can bet on. On the contrary, betting companies in the Netherlands do an excellent job with their market coverage. But punters have more than enough markets available, and Dutch bookies also do a fine job of having more than enough bet types on the site, so we can bet however we like.

Match Result

Match result is the most common bet type, available for all sports or Esports, used to predict which team or a player will win a match. Also known as moneyline (or 1×2), the match result is the most used and straightforward bet.

Draw No Bet

Draw no bet is a form of a handicap bet, only available on matches and sports where a draw is possible. With a draw no bet, we can bet on any team, and if the game ends in a draw, we get our money refunded. It is essentially the same wager as a +0 Asian handicap, but it's a better choice in certain situations.

So if we place a DNB bet on Chelsea against Dinamo Zagreb and Chelsea win, our bet gets settled as a win. However, if the game ends in a draw, the bookmaker will settle the match as a push and refund our stake.

Handicaps

Handicaps are one of the most used bet types in the world, giving punters more flexibility with their bets. With a handicap, a bookmaker handicaps the teams to level the playing field by giving the weaker team an imaginary advantage and the favourites an imaginary disadvantage.

Handicaps can include many things, but most commonly, they are points, goals, and kills (in Esports). The handicap then gets added to the final score.

So, for example, if Liverpool is favoured to defeat Feyenoord, a bookmaker would offer a +1.5 goal handicap on Feyenoord. By betting on Feyenoord, we predict that Feyenoord will either win, draw, or not lose by more than a goal.

Accumulator Bet

Accumulators or parlays is a single wager which combines multiple bets into one. Accumulators are used mostly by bettors chasing a bigger payout and are ready to combine two or more predictions into one to increase the total odds.

However, the downside to accumulators is that all our selections have to hit for the accumulator to be settled as a win. So if we bet on five games and hit all but one, the accumulator will be settled as a loss.

Pre-Match

Pre-match betting includes all wagers we can place before the match starts. Those are moneyline, 1×2, handicaps, totals, accumulators, and all other wagers available in the pre-match markets.

In-Play

In-play betting includes betting on all live markets, which open after the games start. The actual number of in-play markets will vary depending on the bookmaker. Still, it typically includes moneyline, handicaps, totals, and most other pre-match wagers in addition to “next team to” bets.

So, for example, bettors can place an in-play bet on the next team to score a goal, the next team to commit a foul, or the next team to get a goal kick. The options are technically limitless but will depend on how many in-play markets the bookmaker is ready to offer.

Outright

Outrights or futures are wagers on future events but don't include betting on the winner of the upcoming games. Futures mostly include wagers on which team will win a league or which player will be declared a tournament champion, more specific outrights, such as which team will score the most goals, and head-to-head tournament betting.

An example of an outright bet is a wager on Feyenoord to win the next season's Eredivisie.

Live Betting in the Netherlands

Live betting can be highly profitable and offers a new way to bet on sports. Although only for some, it's a very exciting way to approach betting, which explains why it's so popular.

Due to the popularity of in-play betting, all bookmakers nowadays have in-play betting markets available. Yet, there's still a big difference between the average and the best betting sites in the Netherlands for live betting.

Two key factors differentiating a bad and good live betting sportsbook are enough in-play betting markets and the availability of live streaming. Both are crucial for an enjoyable live betting experience, as it's easier to live bet with good market coverage and just as difficult with having access to a stable live stream to follow the action.

Luckily most bookmakers in the Netherlands have both, so it's easy to find a good sportsbook to live bet as long as you trust the highest-rated betting sites.

Gambling Regulations in the Netherlands

Betting and gambling in the Netherlands are legal and have been for years; however, until 2021, the Netherlands' sports betting industry was under monopoly. All forms of sports betting were possible only through local Netherlands betting sites operated by De Lotto and Scientific Games Racing BV; however, even before 2021, there were many international online betting sites in the Netherlands.

International sportsbooks were technically not legal betting sites in the Netherlands. Still, they were accessible and widely used by Dutch bettors, mainly because they offer better odds and betting bonus offers. So to battle the issue, the Netherlands government established the Remote Gambling Act (KOA).

KOA modernized the iGaming market in the country. It made it possible for local punters to pick between local betting websites in the Netherlands or any international sportsbooks operating in the county.

Gaming Licenses in the Netherlands

Dutch bettors can use any sportsbook they like, from GGBet to Bet365, Livescore Bet, and many more; however, only sportsbooks with a local betting license are considered legal. Still, the law doesn't prohibit online betting on foreign bookmakers, and there is no legal action taken against those who don't have a local betting license.

Due to the high licensing fees and taxes, most major sportsbooks still need to and don't plan to obtain Dutch betting licenses. But as noted, this means little, as no law would prohibit online betting in the Netherlands on any foreign bookmaker. The only issue is that if we choose to bet on an unlicenced betting website, it's easier to stumble upon a scam bookmaker.

Recent Breaches in Dutch Gambling Regulations

The KSA (Kansspelautoriteit), an independent gambling regulator in the Netherlands, has been working hard over the years to establish a safe gambling environment, mainly by implementing strict fines for bookmakers who don't obey the rules but also monitoring safe gambling and unlicenced betting operators.

Most notably, the KSA has fined some bookmakers who were offering markets on yellow and red cards in football, which goes against the local law of accepting bets on match-fixing sensitive events. Similarly, a betting website in the Netherlands was punished for offering various games of chance on top of sports betting despite not having a license to do so.

Other notable actions by the KSA included punishing online betting sites in the Netherlands for their advertising approach, which might attract younger people to bet. These precautions were taken to battle gambling addiction and provided a safe betting environment, one of KSA's main goals.

KSA dictates that all betting websites in the Netherlands have to have tools in place to prevent gambling addiction, such as self-exclusion, software to monitor the gambling behavior of the bettors, and regular check-ups.

Winning Taxes in Sports Betting Netherlands

According to the current betting laws, all Dutch bookmakers have to pay a 20% GGR tax (+2% contributions to the Gambling fund) and renew their license every five years to remain one of the legal Netherlands sports betting operators. However, the harsh tax laws don't apply to those who bet on Dutch gambling sites.

Unlike some European countries, the Netherlands focuses more on taxing websites that offer sports betting in the Netherlands than on punters. And instead of dividing the tax between the betting companies in Netherlands and bettors, all of the tax responsibilities fall on the companies, leaving bettors tax-free on their winnings.

According to the local gambling laws, any resident can register on licensed betting sites in the Netherlands or use any betting apps in the Netherlands as long as they are at least 18 years old.

History of Sports Betting in the Netherlands

The Netherlands was quite slow to fully adapt to the online sports betting world, mainly because the country has long wanted to force a monopoly, led by De Lotto and Scientific Games Racing BV. But even when the only legal way to bet online in the Netherlands was to use local bookmakers, people were still free to use international sportsbooks, which led to some changes.

IN 2021, the Netherlands accepted Remote Gambling Act (KOA), which effectively modernized the iGaming market and finally made it clear that sports betting in the country is legal. Even though the new laws still state that Netherlands online betting should be done through local licensed bookmakers, no law would prohibit Dutch bettors from using any of the available international sportsbooks.

Ultimately, all the developments in the Netherlands' online betting industry over the last years only helped the industry by implementing rules to protect the bettors and making betting more accessible.

The Future of Online Betting Netherlands

The future of online betting in the Netherlands looks promising, but there's one big issue that the country has to address – its high taxes for betting operators. As of today, all licensed betting operators have to pay a 20% GGR tax, which is one of the main reasons many international bookmakers don't want to obtain a license to offer betting in the Netherlands.

However, the Netherlands is in a good spot financially, with a strong industry, which could lead to amendments to the gambling law which would lower the tax imposed on international Netherlands bookmakers. If that should happen, we can expect more big sportsbooks to enter the market, and due to the potential of the Dutch betting industry, the list will likely include all bigger betting brands – with some exceptions, such as Sky Bet, which can't operate outside of the UK.

The Netherlands Overview

Before we conclude our article on the best betting sites in the Netherlands, here are some interesting facts about the country and its online sports gambling industry.

  • Amsterdam is the Netherlands' capital and the most populous city, followed by Rotterdam, Den Haag, and Utrecht.
  • Dutch is the only official language of the Netherlands, but millions also speak Frisian, which is very similar to English.
  • The official currency of the Netherlands is the Euro, which is also the most used currency on sports betting sites, ahead of crypto, which is slowly becoming a very popular way to deposit and withdraw money from sportsbooks.
  • The most popular online payment methods on Dutch betting sites are Zimpler, Cashlib, iDeal, Skrill, and Neteller.
  • Four of the most popular online bookmakers in the Netherlands are Bet365, William Hill, GGBet, and Livescore Bet.
  • The most popular sports in the Netherlands are football, basketball, volleyball, cycling, and field hockey.
  • The most popular sports competitions in the Netherlands are Eredivisie, Dutch Basketball League (DBL), and the Dutch Volleyball League.
  • The Netherlands has many world-renowned sports teams, including Dynamo Apeldoorn, Heroes Den Bosch, ZZ Leiden, Abiant Lycurgus Groningen, and Feyenoord.
  • Some of the most popular Dutch athletes are Max Verstappen, Ireen Wüst, Virgil van Dijk, Memphis Depay, and Mathieu Van der Poel.

Bottom Line

You need to connect with BetZillion's universe to know everything about betting in the Netherlands, how to do it, what you can bet on, and where to find the best betting sites. Now you're ready to find the best Netherlands bookmaker, register for an account and start betting, but remember to bet responsibly and never risk more money than you can afford to lose.

Need a trusted bookie in the Netherlands?

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can you bet in the Netherlands?
    Yes, it is possible to bet in the Netherlands since online betting in the country is legal and regulated by the Netherlands Gambling Authority. Therefore all Dutch bettors are free to wager on sports, Esports, politics, or anything in between without prosecution.
  • Is sports betting legal in the Netherlands?
    Sports betting in the Netherlands is allowed, legal, and regulated by the Netherlands Gambling Authority, which does not prosecute anyone who bets online.
  • Which is the best betting site in the Netherlands?
    There is no clear one best betting site in the Netherlands, but rather many excellent sportsbooks, which include many of Europe's biggest sites such as Bet365, William Hill, Unibet, and 888sport.
  • What are the age restrictions for bettors in the Netherlands?
    The legal age for gambling and betting in the Netherlands is 18, without any exceptions. So to register with a sportsbook and place bets legally, you must prove that you're at least 18.
  • How do I know if a Netherlands betting site is safe?
    The best way to ensure that a betting site in the Netherlands is safe is to check whether it has a valid betting license, but it's also important to check if the bookmaker has a good reputation.
  • What promotions are available for Dutch sports bettors?
    There are no limits set on what bonuses and promotions bookmakers can offer to Dutch bettors. As a result, punters from the Netherlands have access to all forms of bonuses and promotions, including free bets, enhanced odds, insurance bets, and welcome deposit bonuses.
  • Which payment methods can I use for betting in the Netherlands?
    Betting sites in the Netherlands accept various payment methods, including bank transfers, Visa, MasterCard, e-wallets such as Skrill and Neteller, and crypto payments. Although less often, some bookmakers also accept payments via PayPal.
  • Can I get bonuses on Netherlands betting sites?
    Yes. Netherlands betting sites regularly offer bonuses and promotions to their customers, and the Dutch bettors are not excluded from the offer. So as long as bettors use good bookmakers, they'll regularly have access to bonuses.
  • Will a VPN allow me to bet online in the Netherlands?
    You don't need a VPN to bet online in the Netherlands since online betting is legal and regulated.
  • What currency do Dutch betting sites accept?
    Dutch bookmakers accept many currencies, but they mostly operate with Euro as the official currency of the Netherlands. Some bookmakers also accept cryptocurrencies; however, Euro is a far more accessible option for depositing and withdrawing.
  • Still have questions?
    Ask our experts

      Sign up & get answer(s)

    Tim Harrison
    Author
    Betting Guru

    Tim is our betting guru. Every gaming site needs one, and Tim’s our guy. He has plenty of experience in betting online and is quite successful at it. Tim’s favorite sports are hockey, baseball, and Esports. Tim believes the latter to be the future of betting.

    Thanks for subscribing!
    We’ll send all the updates straight to your inbox. It’s the best way to learn news about sports betting.
    You’ll also receive a newsletter with information on major sports betting updates, new betting site reviews, and the latest bonuses and promotions every few weeks.
    We’re very happy to have you on board!
    Cheers!