Gambling in Norway is strictly regulated: only Norsk Tipping and Norsk Rikstoto can offer it, the age limit is 18, and foreign online casinos are illegal. If you need help, call the Helpline for free on 800 800 40.

What are the rules for gambling in Norway?

Gambling in Norway is based on an exclusive rights model. This means only two companies have permission to offer gambling. Norsk Tipping is a state-owned company that offers Lotto, Eurojackpot, betting, scratch cards and online games. Norsk Rikstoto has the exclusive right to horse racing gambling.

The Lottery Authority is the state's regulatory body. It supervises the gambling market and ensures that the rules are followed. Non-profit clubs and associations can also be given permission to hold smaller lotteries.

The model is similar to the system for alcohol. The state controls the sale to limit harm. You can read more about this idea in our article on alcohol rules and the wine monopoly.

The age limit for all gambling is 18 years. You must show identification, and online gambling requires you to log in with a registered account.

Why does Norway have a state gambling monopoly?

The main goal is to limit gambling addiction and other harm. Gambling can become an addiction in the same way as alcohol or drugs. A controlled market makes it easier to set limits and detect problems early.

The surplus is an advantage, but not the main goal. The surplus from Norsk Tipping goes to good causes across the country:

  • sports and local sports clubs
  • culture and cultural buildings
  • voluntary and humanitarian organisations

This way the money comes back to society instead of going to private owners. This is an important reason why Norway maintains the monopoly.

State schemes and responsible consumption are part of the curriculum for the Norwegian citizenship test — you can practise for free on SamfunnPrep.

Are foreign online casinos legal in Norway?

No. Foreign gambling companies do not have a Norwegian license, and it is not legal to offer gambling to people in Norway without such a license. Their advertising is also not allowed.

The state uses several tools to stop illegal gambling:

  • Norwegian banks are prohibited from processing payments to and from gambling companies without a license.
  • Advertising for foreign gambling sites has been removed from Norwegian TV channels.
  • From 2025, the Lottery Authority blocks foreign websites that target Norway.

You therefore cannot rely on a foreign online casino being safe. You have no Norwegian protection if something goes wrong. Playing at such companies also increases the risk that small spending grows out of control. A healthy relationship with money is linked to good personal finance.

Responsible gambling: limits and Gambling Break

Norsk Tipping has several tools designed to make gambling safer. These are called responsible gambling measures, and they are free to use.

  • Loss limits: You set an upper limit on how much you can lose per day, week, month and year. All players must have a limit.
  • Self-test: A short test that helps you see if your gambling is in the danger zone.
  • Gambling Break: You can lock yourself out of gambling for a chosen period, for example a week, a month or longer. This is called self-exclusion.

These limits only work with legal providers. This is another reason to stay away from foreign websites, which do not have such schemes.

Signs of gambling addiction and where to get help

You don't need to be in crisis to ask for help. Gambling addiction often develops slowly. Common signs are:

  • You spend more money and time on gambling than you planned.
  • You gamble to win back what you have lost.
  • You borrow money or hide your gambling from your family.
  • You become anxious or irritated when you cannot gamble.
  • Gambling affects your sleep, work or relationships.

If you recognise these signs, there is free and anonymous help available. Call the Helpline on 800 800 40. The line is open on weekdays, and those who answer do not know who you are. You can also chat or send an email. The service is run by Blå Kors in cooperation with the Lottery Authority.

You can also contact your GP. Your GP can refer you to free treatment. Gambling problems are often linked to stress and low mood, and it can help to read about mental health and help.

Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Many recover and regain control. If you want to understand more about Norwegian society and your rights, you can practise for free on SamfunnPrep.

What if someone in your family gambles too much?

You can get help even if you are not the one gambling. Gambling addiction often affects the whole family. Family and friends can experience worry, debt and broken trust.

The Helpline on 800 800 40 is also for family and friends. You can call anonymously and get advice on what you can do. There are special groups and support services for family and friends.

Here are some concrete steps if someone you care about gambles too much:

  • Talk calmly and without blame. Say what you see, not what you think.
  • Do not pay the person's gambling debt. This can make the problem worse.
  • Suggest loss limits and Gambling Break with Norsk Tipping.
  • Encourage them to contact their GP or the Helpline.

Gambling addiction is like other addictions, and treatment is often the same. Read more about drugs and treatment to understand how help works in Norway.

In short

Gambling in Norway is legal only with Norsk Tipping and Norsk Rikstoto, the age limit is 18, and foreign casinos are illegal. Help for gambling addiction is free and anonymous on the Helpline 800 800 40. This knowledge is useful both in everyday life and in the Norwegian citizenship test, which you can practise with SamfunnPrep.