Sweden to Ban Gambling with Credit Starting April 2026

The gambling industry in Sweden is preparing for sweeping changes as the government introduces a full ban on gambling with borrowed funds beginning in April 2026. The new law will prevent licensed operators and gambling agents from handling any payments linked to credit cards, overdrafts, or personal loans.

Good to Know

• The ban begins on 1 April 2026 and covers all licensed gambling operators
• Oversight will be handled by Spelinspektionen, with support from Finansinspektionen and Konsumentverket
• Certain charity lotteries and public-benefit gaming operations may receive exemptions

The measure closes long-standing loopholes that allowed players to gamble with borrowed money. Licensed companies will be required to block all credit-related payments, stop promoting third-party lending services, and ensure only non-credit funds are accepted for gambling.

Spelinspektionen, the gambling authority of Sweden, will enforce the law once it takes effect. The financial regulator Finansinspektionen and the national consumer agency Konsumentverket will assist in monitoring compliance. Operators that ignore the new rules could face financial penalties, suspensions, or even the loss of their license.

The Swedish government introduced the legislation following growing concerns about gambling debt and consumer protection. The Överskuldsättningsutredningen, a national inquiry into credit use and debt, was cited as a key reference for the decision. Data from Kronofogden, the Enforcement Authority of Sweden, showed total consumer debt reached SEK 138 billion ($14.7 billion) in January 2025 — the highest level ever recorded.

A study by the Public Health Agency titled “Health on Equal Opportunities” also found that between 3% and 4% of people aged 16 to 84 experience gambling problems, with around 40% of those cases involving slot and casino play.

“The requirements shall apply to all forms of gambling subject to licensing and regardless of how the game is provided,” the government stated.

In the Making Since 2019

Sweden first placed limits on gambling credit in 2019, though attempts to extend the restrictions stalled due to disagreements over how to define “credit.” The latest bill eliminates that ambiguity and provides clearer enforcement guidelines.

Spelinspektionen has supported a complete ban for several years, arguing that credit gambling undermines responsible gaming objectives. The upcoming law aligns with broader European trends to protect players from financial harm and promote sustainable gambling practices.

In addition to the credit ban, the government recently updated the Gambling Act to curb unlicensed operators that target Swedish players through foreign-language websites and non-SEK transactions. The reform strengthens national oversight and reduces exposure to offshore operators.

When it comes into force in 2026, the credit gambling ban will create one of the strictest responsible gaming frameworks in Europe, reflecting Sweden’s continued effort to balance market growth with consumer protection.

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