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French Lottery Law & Tax Guide 2026
Is it legal to play French lotteries from abroad? What taxes apply? This guide answers both questions clearly for international players.
Is It Legal to Play from Outside France?
For the vast majority of international players, yes it is fully legal. Licensed lottery courier services operate under their own gambling licences and purchase official FDJ tickets on your behalf inside France.
FDJ sells tickets exclusively within France. However, international participation is legally possible through licensed lottery ticket services. These services:
- Purchase official tickets inside France on your behalf
- Register tickets in your name
- Store tickets securely until draw completion
- Process and transfer winnings to your account
From a legal perspective, the ticket remains French. The service acts as an intermediary, not as a lottery operator. This distinction is the reason international players can access French lotteries without violating local gambling laws.
Tax at Source — France
France does not withhold any tax on lottery winnings. All prizes from EuroMillions, Loto and KENO are paid in full at source. There is no French capital gains tax or income tax on lottery winnings for residents or non-residents.
This applies to all prize tiers, including the jackpot. The My Million €1,000,000 raffle prize is also paid in full.
Tax in Your Home Country
Whether you owe tax at home depends entirely on local legislation. Many countries require residents to declare foreign lottery winnings as income. Below is a general overview, always consult a local tax advisor for your specific situation.
| Country | Tax on lottery winnings | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Netherlands | Yes — 30.5% | Kansspelbelasting on prizes over €449 |
| Belgium | Yes — 30% | Tax withheld at source for Belgian lotteries; foreign wins must be declared |
| Germany | No | Lottery winnings are generally tax-free |
| UK | No | Lottery winnings are not subject to income tax |
| Spain | Yes — 20% | On prizes over €40,000 |
| USA | Yes | Federal + state taxes apply; consult a tax advisor |
| Canada | No | Lottery winnings generally tax-free |
For non-residents with specific questions about French lottery tax → Tax for Non-Residents
Frequently Asked Questions
Does France tax EuroMillions winners?
No. France does not withhold any tax on EuroMillions prizes at source. All prize tiers, including the jackpot and the My Million €1M raffle, are paid in full. Tax obligations in your home country depend on local law.
Do I need to declare French lottery winnings in the Netherlands?
Yes. The Netherlands charges 30.5% kansspelbelasting (gambling tax) on lottery prizes over €449. This applies to foreign lottery winnings including French lotteries. The tax is typically paid by the player when declaring winnings.
Is it legal to use an online lottery service to play Loto from abroad?
Yes, for most countries. Licensed courier services operate legally under international gambling regulations. They purchase real, physical FDJ tickets on your behalf inside France. Always use a licensed, regulated service.