Deposit Caps Push Dutch Gamblers to Offshore Casinos

_{Players searching for 'casinos without limits' are increasingly being directed to illegal gambling sites. (Image: KSA)}

Industry leaders have long been saying that there will be a rise in players using online casinos that are not legal when tougher regulations are imposed on the regulated industry.

A recent study by the Quality Mark Responsible Affiliates (KVA) has revealed a significant increase in traffic to illegal gambling sites in the Netherlands, attributed to the introduction of deposit limits in October 2024.

Since these regulations were implemented, the number of people visiting illegal gambling domains has surged from approximately 172,576 in October to over one million by early March 2025. 

Players Searching for ‘Casinos Without Limits’ 

The KVA's analysis shows that as players searched for terms such as “casino without limits” or “casino without Cruks,” the number of illegal sites appearing in top search results rose from 19 to 72 over the same period. 

_{KVA search results for 'Casino Without Limit.' (Image: KVA)} 

This trend raises concerns among industry leaders about the effects of stricter regulations, with the KVA warning that additional advertising restrictions could further drive players to illegal platforms. 

Deposit Limits Intended to Curb Excessive Gambling 

The Dutch gambling regulator, Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), had implemented deposit thresholds—€700 for general players and €300 for those aged 18 to 25—to curb excessive gambling.   

A report from the KSA indicated a decline in the number of high rollers losing significant amounts of money at legal sites; however, it acknowledged that while 91% of gamblers engage with licensed providers, the overall share of losses incurred on illegal platforms has risen, highlighting a troubling shift in player behaviour.