Belgium Raises Minimum Gambling Age to 21 Across All Forms

Belgium has implemented new regulations that standardize the minimum age for all forms of gambling at 21 years old, effectively banning anyone under that age from participating in any gambling activities nationwide. This move is the latest in a series of efforts by Belgian authorities to control the gambling industry and mitigate potential gambling-related harm among young people.

Previously, individuals aged 18 and over were allowed to engage in certain gambling activities such as sports betting, bingo, and arcade games, while casinos required patrons to be at least 21 years old since 2018. The new rules, agreed upon in February 2024 and confirmed by royal decree last month, now extend the age requirement of 21 across the entire gambling sector.

The changes override various gambling laws dating back several decades in Belgium, aligning age requirements for sports betting, arcades, and bingo with those of land-based casinos. In addition to raising the minimum age, the new regulations prohibit a single website from holding multiple gaming licenses, further tightening control over the industry.

These measures follow earlier restrictions implemented since 2020, including a ban on bonuses and free bets, and the introduction of a €200 weekly deposit limit. In 2023, a royal decree was passed to almost completely ban gambling advertising, reflecting the government’s ongoing commitment to curbing gambling activities.

Belgian authorities have outlined that the decision aims to reduce rates of gambling addiction among young people in a cost-effective manner. VAD, the Flemish center of expertise for alcohol, illegal drugs, psychoactive medication, gambling, and gaming, had been advocating for raising age restrictions. The organization claims that the change in legislation was a “cost-effective” way to decrease addiction among the youth.

The move is part of a broader trend of tightening gambling regulations in Belgium, contrasting with many other countries where gambling laws are being relaxed. By implementing stricter age limits and advertising bans, the government seeks to address social concerns related to gambling.

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Licensed gambling operators in Belgium have expressed concerns that these stringent regulations may drive players to illegal, offshore sites. They argue that such measures could inadvertently encourage unregulated gambling activities, which lack player protections and oversight.

Casino and sports betting operators currently offering services in Belgium must take immediate steps to comply with the new regulatory standards. Failure to adhere to the rules could result in serious financial and legal penalties. According to the new legislation, all customers under the age of 21 must have any credit associated with their accounts refunded in full, along with any wagers made without adequate age verification procedures in place.

These changes require operators to overhaul their age verification processes to ensure compliance. The urgency of implementing these measures is critical to avoid potential sanctions and to continue operating within Belgium’s legal framework.

Source:

“Belgium Gambling Ban Rolls Out for Under 21s“, vivogaming.com, September 11, 2024.