Responsible gambling
CRUKS, self-exclusion and help — especially for migrant workers
An honest word from Marek
I play myself too — and I know how easy it is to keep playing when you've had a bad day. Especially when you are far from home, lonely after a long day of work, and your phone is your only entertainment. This page is the most important one on my entire website.
Gambling can be fun, but it can also ruin your life. I've seen it happen to colleagues. Take this seriously — not tomorrow, but now.
What is CRUKS?
CRUKS (Centraal Register Uitsluiting Kansspelen) is the Dutch exclusion register. If you register, you will be <strong>automatically blocked</strong> at all legal online casinos, gaming arcades and Holland Casino branches throughout the Netherlands.
An exclusion lasts at least 6 months, maximum for life — you choose the period yourself. Registration is possible via <a href="https://cruksregister.nl" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="underline font-medium text-primary">cruksregister.nl</a> with your DigiD. Within 24 hours of registration, you will be blocked at all providers.
Difference with Poland
There is no comparable national register in Poland. You cannot exclude yourself centrally. CRUKS is unique and is one of the strongest forms of protection that the Dutch system offers. Use it if you need it — that's what it's for.
Tools you can set yourself
Every casino with a KSA license is legally obliged to offer these tools. You don't have to wait until it is "too late".
Deposit limits
In any casino with a KSA license you can set daily, weekly and monthly deposit limits. An increase only takes effect after a cooling-off period, but a decrease works immediately.
Time limits and reality checks
Set the maximum playing time per session. You will receive a notification when you approach your limit. Some casinos also show how much you have won or lost during a session.
Temporary break
Most casinos offer a "time-out" from 24 hours to 6 weeks. Your account is temporarily frozen — without having to register with CRUKS.
Recognize the warning signs
Do you recognize yourself in two or more of these points? Take action — set limits or consider a break.
- ⚠You think about gambling more and more often, also at work
- ⚠You play to win back losses
- ⚠You lie about how much you play or lose
- ⚠You borrow money to play
- ⚠You play after night shifts when you are tired
- ⚠You send less money to family in Poland
- ⚠You become restless when you can't play
- ⚠You constantly increase your bets
Tips for migrant workers
Especially for Poles far from home — practical tips from own experience and others.
- ✓Set limits immediately: max. €50-100 per week
- ✓NEVER play after a night shift or when you are tired
- ✓Do not play with money reserved for rent, food or family
- ✓Set a timer — stop after a maximum of 30-60 minutes per session
- ✓Talk to someone if you notice you play more than planned
- ✓Use the self-exclusion option if you need a break
Need help? You are not alone
Free and anonymous help is available — even if you're not sure yet if you have a problem. You can call 24/7 and you don't have to give your name. Polish speaking counselors are also available through some organizations.
0800-1515
Loket Kansspel — free, anonymous, 24/7
Anonymous help with gambling problems — chat and phone
Mental health — also with addiction problems
Exclude yourself immediately at all casinos
Sources and accountability
The information on this page is based on official Dutch sources. I am not an addiction expert — if in doubt, contact a professional via the helplines above.
Written by
Marek
Founder HolandiaKasyno.com
Updated: March 2026
- Pole in the Netherlands since 2021. I share my own experiences.
- All casinos verified via the official KSA database
- Reviews supplemented with Trustpilot data and community feedback