Online poker in Norway is strictly regulated under a state monopoly system where only authorized operators can legally offer gambling services. The Gaming Scheme Act of 2022 and accompanying regulations generally prohibit the provision, marketing or distribution of gambling activities without authorization from the Norwegian Gaming and Foundation Authority (1). Norsk Tipping holds the exclusive right to offer online casino games and betting, while poker remains largely prohibited except under specific conditions.
Limited forms of poker are permitted in Norway through two narrow exceptions established by regulatory authorities. Since 2014, an annual National Poker Championship has been allowed under special licensing provisions (2). Private home poker games among friends were legalized in 2015 with strict limitations, permitting a maximum of 20 players per game with stakes not exceeding NOK 1,000 per player, provided the game is not organized or professional in nature.
"Poker is generally not permitted, but since 2014, an annual National Poker Championship has been allowed. Since 2015, low stakes poker played in private homes between friends has been permitted with a maximum of 20 players, if the total stake per player does not exceed NOK 1000."
The Norwegian government employs multiple enforcement mechanisms to maintain its gambling monopoly, including payment blocking implemented in 2010 that prevents money transfers between foreign gambling operators and Norwegian residents (1). Financial institutions are required to block transactions using Merchant Category Code 7995, which identifies gambling operators. In 2025, Norway introduced DNS blocking of illegal gambling websites as an additional measure. Violations can result in administrative fines, coercive penalties, or imprisonment up to three years for serious offenses.
Source:
https://iclg.com/practice-areas/gambling-laws-and-regulations/norway
https://lottstift.no/en/gambling-in-norway
Last updated: 09-10-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
