Lottery Laws by Country
Legal status, tax rates, and age requirements for 12+ countries.
Countries Where Lottery is Legal
Legal status and regulations for each country
United States
Each state regulates its own lottery. Federal tax withholding applies to winnings over $5,000.
United Kingdom
National Lottery operated by Allwyn Entertainment (took over February 2024). Online play legal through official channels.
Canada
Each province operates its own lottery. No federal tax on winnings.
Germany
State lottery operated by each Bundesland. Online play legal through official channels.
France
Française des Jeux (FDJ) operates all lottery games. Online play legal.
Italy
SuperEnalotto operated by Sisal. Prizes up to €500 tax-free; 20% withheld at source on prizes above €500.
Spain
SELAE operates national lottery games. Prizes up to €40,000 are tax-free; 20% tax applies to the amount exceeding €40,000.
Australia
Each state operates its own lottery. Online play legal through official channels.
Japan
Takarakuji operated by local governments. 20% tax withheld at source. Limited online play available.
India
Each state regulates its own lottery. High tax rate on winnings.
Brazil
Caixa Econômica Federal operates all lottery games. 15% personal income tax on net winnings above BRL 2,824 (~USD 550), withheld at source. Effective from 2024 legislation.
Mexico
Pronósticos para la Asistencia Pública operates lottery games.
Ireland
Premier Lotteries Ireland operates the National Lottery. Online play legal at lottery.ie. Tax-free winnings.
New Zealand
Lotto NZ operates all lottery games. Online play legal at mylotto.co.nz. Tax-free winnings.
South Africa
Ithuba Holdings operates the National Lottery. Online play legal. Tax-free winnings.
Countries with Restrictions
China
Only government-operated lotteries legal. Private gambling strictly prohibited.
Saudi Arabia
All forms of gambling prohibited under Islamic law.
United Arab Emirates
Some forms of gambling legal in specific zones. Online gambling restricted.
Key Legal Considerations
Tax Implications
Tax-Free Countries: Most European countries, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand do not tax lottery winnings. Brazil introduced a 15% withholding tax on net winnings above BRL 2,824 in 2024.
Taxed Countries: United States (24% federal + state), India (30% flat rate).
Withholding: Some countries require automatic tax withholding on large prizes.
Reporting: Winners may need to report winnings on tax returns even in tax-free countries.
Online Play Regulations
Legal Online Play: Most European countries, Canada, and Australia allow online lottery play.
Restricted Online Play: United States varies by state, some countries restrict online gambling.
Licensed Operators: Only play through government-licensed or officially authorized platforms.
Age Verification: Online platforms must verify age and location before allowing play.
Legal Compliance Checklist
Before Playing
- Verify lottery is legal in your jurisdiction
- Check age requirements (usually 18+)
- Use only licensed or official platforms
- Understand tax implications
- Read terms and conditions
After Winning
- Sign ticket immediately
- Make copies of winning ticket
- Consult tax professional
- Consider financial advisor
- Claim within required timeframe
Related Legal Resources
Explore our comprehensive legal and tax guides for lottery players.
Legal Disclaimer
This information is provided for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Lottery laws and regulations change frequently and vary by jurisdiction.
Always consult with qualified legal professionals in your jurisdiction before participating in any lottery games. We are not responsible for any legal consequences resulting from the use of this information.
Last Updated: 5/13/2026
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