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Is gambling legal in Norway?

Who may offer gambling in Norway and what applies to foreign sites.

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Short answer

Gambling is legal in Norway with Norsk Tipping and Norsk Rikstoto, which hold exclusive rights to run most games, including sports betting and casino games. Foreign gambling sites have no Norwegian licence, but playing on them is not illegal for you. Banks block payments to and from them, so you risk losing your winnings.

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Why

  1. Norway runs its main gambling market under an exclusive rights model, and the government states that the primary aim of its gaming policy is responsible gaming.
  2. Since 1 January 2025 internet providers have had to block gambling sites that target Norway without a licence, and by October 2026 the regulator had blocked 238 sites.
  3. Norwegian banks and other payment providers must stop transfers to and from unlicensed gambling companies, which covers both stakes and winnings.

Details

Norsk Tipping offers number games such as Lotto, sports betting, casino games, bingo and entertainment games, while Norsk Rikstoto has the exclusive right to betting on horses. Licensed operators show the gaming mark “Tillatt i Norge” on their websites and apps. Norsk Tipping has lower loss limits for young players: those aged 18–20 can lose at most NOK 2,000 a month.

Tip

Look for the “Tillatt i Norge” mark before you deposit money, because the banks may stop your winnings from a site without it.

Common misconception

Playing on a foreign casino or betting site from Norway is a crime.

What actually happens

The rules target the companies, not the players: the regulator states that it is not illegal to play with foreign gambling companies or to get around the blocking, although it advises against playing there.

People also ask

  • Is online gambling legal in Norway?
  • Is it legal to play on foreign gambling sites in Norway?

Sources

This answer is for reference only. Rules can change, so check the Norwegian Gambling and Foundation Authority (Lottstift) before you play.

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