Which Countries Are Opening Online Gambling Markets in 2026

The global online gambling landscape is shifting rapidly. As we move into 2026, a handful of countries are preparing to open or reform their online casino and sports betting markets – offering major growth opportunities for operators and new choices for players. Below are key nations to watch, each with its unique regulatory path and timing.

New Zealand: Launching a Regulated iGaming Market

New Zealand’s government announced its intention to create a fully regulated online casino market, beginning with a licensing process in early 2026. The country’s Department of Internal Affairs issued a call for operators to register interest as part of the upcoming framework – expected to include up to 15 licences and strict consumer-protection mandates.

Key Features of the NZ Market

• Competitive licensing – Up to 15 operators will be selected, including Rainbet.
• Responsible gambling focus – Harm minimisation and strict verification required.
• Timeline – Legislation expected in 2026, with licences issued shortly after.

Finland: Monopoly Ends, Licensing Begins

Finland is preparing to dismantle its national monopoly held by Veikkaus for online betting and casino games. A bill introduced in 2025 aims to replace the monopoly with a licensing model beginning in 2027 – though preparations will start in 2026.

What This Means for Operators

• New market entrants will be able to apply for licences in early 2026.
• Veikkaus will maintain a monopoly only for lotteries and land-based casinos.
• The shift aligns Finland with other Nordic countries, which already have regulated online markets.

Croatia: Regulatory Updates in Preparation

Although already regulated, Croatia is making major legal changes ahead of 2026. The reforms include strengthened regulation of online gaming, higher licence fees, and stricter advertising rules, signalling a pivot toward international operators.

Why Croatia Matters

• It offers one of the few regulated markets in the Adriatic region.
• Changes provide a clearer regulatory model for neighbouring countries.
• Operators that adapt early can gain a first-mover advantage when implementation happens in or around 2026.

Here’s a clear breakdown of the major countries, their status, and key developments:

Summary of Emerging Markets Opening Online Gambling

Why These Moves Are Significant

Before looking at individual laws, it helps to understand why new market openings make headlines in the gambling industry. Regulation changes don’t just affect operators — they reshape player safety, national revenue, and the competitive balance between legal and offshore platforms. With several countries preparing new frameworks in 2026, the impact will be felt across technology, marketing, and consumer behaviour.

• They attract global operators seeking new growth regions.
• They push up standards around licensing, responsible gambling, and transparency.
• Players in those countries gain access to regulated offerings rather than offshore or unlicensed sites.
• They shift global competition, making new markets as important as established ones.

What to Watch in 2026

• Licence issuance – When applications open and which operators win approval.
• Regulatory policy – Tax rates, player protections, advertising rules.
• Market entry – How existing operators adjust pricing, bonuses, payment options to new jurisdictions.
• Player impact – Changes in local uptake, shift from grey-market sites to licensed platforms.

In short, 2026 is shaping up to be a landmark year for online gambling regulation. Countries like New Zealand and Finland are moving from restricted or monopolised models toward competitive, licensed markets. For players and operators alike, the shift means more choice, better protection, and higher-profile competition.