Games of chance

Games of chance allow players to win a prize while not exerting any controlling influence on the game. In the Netherlands, many games of chance are prohibited or only allowed to a few permanent and semi-permanent permit holders, such as Holland Casino, the State Lottery and the Lotto. Offering games of chance on the Internet is prohibited in the Netherlands. Prize winners or organisers must pay betting and lottery tax on prizes exceeding € 454.

Permit for organising a shopping week promotion

If you want to organise a shopping week promotion in the Netherlands, you will need a permit. A shopping week promotion is a lottery in which you and at least ten other small to medium-sized retailers issue free tickets to customers. You can obtain a permit for organising a shopping week promotion from the Chamber of Commerce (KvK).

Occasional lottery permit

If you want to organise an occasional lottery, you must apply for a permit. You are obliged to spend the proceeds from the lottery on a cause of general interest. Depending on the value of the total prize package, you apply for the permit with the municipality where the draw takes place or with the Games of Chance Authority (Kansspelautoriteit, Ksa) of the Ministry of Security and Justice.

Bingo or promotional game of chance

You do not need a permit for organising bingos or promotional games of chance. If you organise a bingo together with your association, you must report it at least 14 days in advance to the municipality where the bingo is held. As organiser of promotional games of chance, you must comply with the conditions of the Code of Conduct for Promotional Games of Chance.