Step-by-step manual
Self-exclusion in Netherlands
The Netherlands has had a national exclusion register, Cruks, since 1 October 2021. Licensed online operators, amusement arcades and Holland Casino must check it before letting anyone play, so one registration blocks you from all of them. You choose the length, with a minimum of six months. A registration ends automatically when the chosen period expires. If you chose a longer period, you can deregister at any point after the first six months, subject to an eight-day reflection period designed to prevent impulsive decisions. Relatives and operators can also ask the KSA to register someone involuntarily where there are serious signs of harm. Cruks is free but does not cover the state lottery or unlicensed offshore sites.
- Scheme
- Cruks
- Type
- National register
- Minimum
- 6 months
- Cost
- Free
The steps
- 1
Go to the Cruks register
Visit the official Cruks website run by the Kansspelautoriteit. Be wary of look-alike sites; the official register never charges a fee.
- 2
Log in with DigiD
Residents register using DigiD to confirm identity. If you live abroad and have no DigiD, Cruks offers a separate application route using a form and a copy of your passport or ID card.
- 3
Choose your period
Select at least six months, or longer. Think about choosing a period well beyond six months; it can still be ended after the first six months if needed.
- 4
Registration takes effect
Once registered, licensed online operators will refuse you at login and arcades and casinos will refuse entry, because they must check Cruks before every session or visit.
- 5
Ask a licensed operator for help if needed
Licensed operators and venues can usually help you register on the spot, which is useful if you are in a casino or arcade and want to stop immediately.
- 6
Add extra layers
Install blocking software and ask your bank about blocking gambling payments, as Cruks cannot stop access to illegal offshore sites.
- 7
Ending your registration
The registration ends automatically at the end of your chosen period. To end a longer period early, log in to Cruks after the first six months and request deregistration; an eight-day reflection period applies.
Before you start — what to know
- Cruks covers licensed online gambling, amusement arcades and land-based casinos; it does not cover the state lottery or charity lotteries.
- The minimum period is six months; there is an eight-day reflection period on deregistration.
- Relatives, or an operator acting on its duty of care, can ask the KSA to register someone involuntarily. The KSA assesses each request.
- Illegal offshore sites do not check Cruks. Sites promoted as 'casino zonder Cruks' operate illegally in the Netherlands.
- More than 100,000 people were registered in Cruks by mid-2025.
Make it stronger: add more barriers
Frequently asked questions
Is online gambling legal in the Netherlands?
Yes, since 1 October 2021, through operators licensed by the Kansspelautoriteit. Offering online gambling to Dutch residents without a licence is illegal.
How long does a Cruks registration last?
At least six months. You choose the length; it ends automatically at the end of the period, or you can request early deregistration after six months, with an eight-day reflection period.
What is the Dutch gambling tax rate?
Kansspelbelasting is 37.8% of gross gaming revenue from 1 January 2026, up from 34.2% in 2025 and 30.5% before that.
Are there deposit limits in the Netherlands?
Operators must run affordability checks once monthly deposits reach €300 for 18 to 24-year-olds or €700 for those aged 25 and over, and block further deposits that month if a player cannot afford them.
Procedures can change. Always follow the instructions of the official scheme or regulator. We2Bet is not affiliated with any self-exclusion scheme. Last reviewed October 2026.