Norway has opened a consultation on proposals that would allow state-owned Norsk Tipping to offer online poker for the first time, subject to strict player protection and operational controls.
The Ministry of Culture and Equality said the proposal aims to provide a regulated alternative to offshore poker sites. The consultation covers both tournament poker and cash games and remains open until November 29, 2026.
Norsk Tipping Could Add Online Poker
Norway currently operates a gambling monopoly in which Norsk Tipping holds exclusive rights to offer several forms of gambling. Under the proposal, the operator would receive permission to add online poker to its portfolio.
The government cited research showing significant demand for online poker among Norwegian players. A 2022 University of Bergen survey found that nearly 90,000 Norwegians played online poker with foreign operators annually, while Norsk Tipping estimates the current figure could range between 100,000 and 150,000 players.
Strict Limits Proposed for Poker
The proposed framework includes several restrictions designed to control player spending and playing time.
Players would face a daily loss limit of NOK5,000 and a monthly limit of NOK10,000. Players under 20 would have a lower monthly limit of NOK2,000.
Tournament buy-ins would be capped at NOK2,500, including fees, while cash-game buy-ins would be limited to NOK1,000. Players could also participate in a maximum of four tables simultaneously.
Tournament players would need to take a five-minute break after every hour of play. Players moving directly from poker to online casino games would also face a 15-minute cooling-off period.
The ministry is also seeking feedback on whether online poker advertising should be prohibited or significantly restricted.
Operators Face New Reporting Rules
The consultation also proposes mandatory incident-reporting requirements for Norway’s largest gambling operators.
Under the proposal, major operators would have to report serious incidents and operational deviations to the gambling regulator Lotteri- og stiftelsestilsynet. The measure is intended to give authorities greater visibility of significant operational problems and support faster regulatory responses.
For suppliers and operators, the proposal signals a potential expansion of Norway’s regulated gambling product range while maintaining the country’s monopoly-based regulatory model.
The consultation is still underway, so Norsk Tipping does not yet have final approval to launch online poker. The government will consider consultation responses before deciding on the proposed regulatory changes.
