Organize lottery, contest, bingo

What is it?

A lottery, contest or bingo is a game of chance. Do you want to organize a game of chance? If so, you must file a notification. A game of chance has some important characteristics:

  • The player can win a prize.
  • The player has no decisive influence on the outcome.
  • The proceeds of the game of chance go to a charity of general interest. For example, a new clubhouse, instruments for the musical society or renovation of the church.

You do not need to apply for a permit if you are organizing a bingo or promotional game of chance, but you must notify the municipality 14 days in advance. The appropriate notification form can be found in the Direct Order section.

What to do.

  • If the prize package of the lottery or contest is less than €4,500, apply for the permit to the municipality. Do this at least 4 weeks in advance.
  • If the prize package of the lottery or contest exceeds €4,500, apply for the license to the Gaming Authority.
  • Note! If you are organizing a contest and the prize package is less than €2,300, you do not need to apply for the permit.

Bingo sign up

At least 14 days in advance, register the bingo with the municipality.

Gaming tax

If you organize a lottery, contest, bingo or other game of chance, you must pay gaming tax. You can do this even if you do not need a license.

How does it work?

You may organize a raffle if:

  • at least 50% of the proceeds go to charity
  • you use up to 50% of the proceeds to pay for the prize package and expenses

You may organize a contest if:

  • the participant has to do something for it. For example, making a slogan, writing a story or taking a picture
  • a jury decides who wins the prizes

You may host a bingo if:

  • an association in existence for at least 3 years organizes the bingo
  • the value of the prizes per game round is a maximum of €400
  • the value of the prizes per meeting is a maximum of €1,550

You may organize a game of chance for promotional purposes if your sole purpose is to advertise it. For example, for a product, service or organization. However, you must comply with the rules set out in the Code of Conduct on Promotional Games of Chance. This code of conduct can be found on the website of the Games of Chance Authority.

Please provide the following information with your license application or your notification of small games of chance (e.g., a bingo):

  • the design of the game of chance
  • the day and time you organize the game of chance
  • the total value of the prizes
  • Chamber of Commerce registration number (of your company or association)
  • copy of articles of association

What does it cost?

For fees, please refer to the fee table in the fee regulation. See local regulations.

Directly arrange

The form below allows you to apply online for a lottery license or a notification organizing small games of chance.

Notification organizing small games of chance

Privacy

All information you provide to us will be treated with care. Personal and/or address information will be used only for the purpose for which you have provided it.

Local Regulations

Fees Regulation