Self-exclusion: can you apply for a gambling ban on behalf of someone else?

When someone close to you is struggling with gambling, the instinct to step in and help is entirely understandable. Fortunately, responsible gambling frameworks in Belgium do provide concrete options — and self-exclusion is one of the most effective. It is a mechanism designed to restrict access to games of chance, including online slot machines, roulette, and blackjack.

However, this raises a fundamental question: can you actually take that step on someone else's behalf? The answer depends on Belgian law and the procedures currently in place.

Before you do anything, Loco Casino, your casino Belgium, walks you through everything you need to know about how self-exclusion works and what options are genuinely available to you.

What is self-sxclusion?

Self-exclusion is a voluntary measure that allows a person to block their own access to games of chance, whether online or at physical venues.

Once activated, the restriction prevents any login or participation in the relevant games for a set period. Depending on the circumstances, this can be either temporary or permanent.

The measure sits within a broader player protection framework, designed to help individuals regain control over their gambling behaviour. You can find a full breakdown of how the process works in our dedicated FAQ section.

Can you request it for someone else?

In Belgium, gambling is regulated by the Gaming Commission, the authority responsible for overseeing player protection measures, including self-exclusion. As a rule, the request must be submitted by the person concerned.

It is, by nature, a personal decision that requires explicit consent. By completing a form with their identity card, a player can register themselves on the blacklist held within the EPIS exclusion process system. Full guidance on how the EPIS registration works is available through the official Gaming Commission channels.

That said, Belgian law does make provision for a third party gambling exclusion request in certain specific circumstances. This option is tightly regulated and does not apply across the board.

What steps are involved in excluding someone else?

The procedure to block casino access on behalf of another person is more involved than a standard self-exclusion. You will need to complete a specific form and supply the relevant supporting documents. Any request to exclude player from gambling system on behalf of someone else must be properly substantiated.

The application must include a clear rationale along with evidence that demonstrates why the measure is necessary. The relevant authorities will then examine the situation in detail before reaching a decision. This approach is designed to prevent misuse and ensure the measure is genuinely warranted. Each case is assessed on its own merits.

Third-party intervention is generally considered when the person in question is no longer capable of making an informed decision independently, or when they are experiencing serious financial difficulties linked to gambling, social withdrawal, or an inability to gamble responsibly. It is worth noting that this remains an exceptional procedure, subject to strict regulatory oversight.

How do you submit an exclusion request?

The gambling restriction Belgium law framework sets out a clear, step-by-step process for requesting the exclusion of another person.

The first step is to complete the designated form, which is available online through the Gaming Commission. For those unable to use digital channels, a paper version is also available.

Once completed, the form must be signed. This can be done electronically using your eID card, or by hand. If submitting by post, a copy of your identity document must be enclosed.

The completed form should then be sent via the official online channels or by recorded delivery. Once received, an acknowledgement of receipt will be issued, and the person concerned will be informed of the procedure. They will ordinarily be given the opportunity to put forward their point of view before any decision is made.

The authorities will then assess the situation in full to determine whether the measure is justified. If the request self exclusion for someone else application is approved, the exclusion will be applied for a minimum of one year. After this period, the individual may apply to have the measure lifted, provided they submit a reasoned request.

A protective measure, not a punishment

Whether initiated voluntarily or through a third party, self-exclusion should always be understood as a tool for protection — not a sanction. Its purpose is to prevent harm, not to penalise. Keeping that distinction clear is important when approaching the subject sensitively.

Before pursuing an exclusion, other options are worth exploring: restricting account access, setting deposit limits, or seeking professional support. If you are concerned about someone's gambling habits, several UK and Belgian organisations offer confidential guidance — including the Belgian helpline for gambling-related problems.

Open communication also plays a vital role. In many cases, an honest conversation can be enough to point someone in the right direction.

Conclusion

Requesting a casino belgium third-party self-exclusion is possible under Belgian law, but only under strictly defined conditions. It remains an exceptional measure and requires a thorough assessment by the relevant authorities.

The overriding aim is to protect the person concerned, in full respect of their rights and within the legal framework. Before taking any action, take the time to familiarise yourself with the procedures and consider all available options. If in doubt, seek guidance from a specialist organisation or contact the Gaming Commission directly.