Sweden to Abandon Land-Based Casinos: Full Shift to iGaming Starting from 2026

Sweden has made an important step towards transitioning to digital forms of gambling by deciding to close all state-owned casinos by 2026.

This decision has been supported by the country’s parliament and is linked to the decline in popularity of traditional casinos as well as the rise of online gaming.

From January 1, 2026, no new licenses will be issued for land-based casinos in Sweden, and the country will fully transition to developing the online gambling sector.

Reasons for Abandoning Land-Based Casinos

One of the main reasons behind this decision is the sharp decline in revenue from traditional casinos. In 2024, the revenue of Sweden’s largest casino, Casino Cosmopol in Stockholm, dropped by 65%, amounting to only $16.9 million. This figure became a catalyst for the decision to close all land-based casinos, including those in Gothenburg, Sundsvall, and Malmö. These establishments had already been closed earlier due to low attendance and a shift of players to online platforms.

The Swedish regulator Spelinspektionen supported the decision to eliminate traditional casinos but noted that it might lead to an increase in illegal offline gambling, which would require enhanced control in this area. The regulator has already requested additional resources for overseeing the situation.

Impact on the iGaming Market

With the shift to online gambling, several questions arise regarding regulation and oversight of operators. Starting from July 1, 2025, amendments to the anti-money laundering law will come into effect, granting Swedish authorities greater powers to monitor online gambling. These changes aim to improve control over gambling platforms and their customers, which will increase transparency in the iGaming sector.

Additionally, it is expected that the reform will provide further incentives for the growth of Sweden’s online gaming industry. Many experts believe that this decision will create a favorable environment for new online operators and innovations in the gambling sector.

Closure of the Last Casino

One of the key steps in implementing this plan will be the closure of the last state-owned casino, Casino Cosmopol in Stockholm. This event is expected to occur before January 1, 2026, after which the entire gaming industry in Sweden will be exclusively focused on the online format. This decision symbolizes the end of the era of traditional casinos in the country, which, despite their long history, were unable to compete with online platforms.

Forecasts and Expectations

The trend towards online gambling is a natural consequence of the growing interest in digital entertainment. Online games offer users convenience and accessibility, making them the preferred choice for most players. It is expected that from 2026, Sweden’s online gambling industry will develop even faster, attracting more players both within the country and abroad.

However, it is important to note that experts warn of potential risks associated with the increase in illegal gambling. Swedish authorities plan to strengthen monitoring and control over the situation to minimize such threats and ensure player safety.