Organizing a raffle, contest, or bingo game
A lottery, contest, or bingo game is a game of chance. A game of chance has the following characteristics:
- The player can win a prize.
- The player has no decisive influence on the outcome.
- The proceeds from the raffle will go to a charity that serves the public interest. For example, a new clubhouse, instruments for the music association, or the renovation of the church.
If you want to organize a game of chance, you need a permit from the municipality. If you are organizing a bingo game or a game of chance for promotional purposes, a notification is sufficient.
How does it work?
You may organize a lottery if:
- at least 40% of the proceeds go to charity
- you use up to 60% of the proceeds to cover the pricing package and costs
You may organize a contest if:
- the participant has to do something for it. For example, come up with a slogan, write a story, or take a photo
- A jury decides who wins the prizes
You may organize a bingo game if:
- An organization that has been in existence for at least 3 years and organizes the bingo
- the value of the prizes per game round is a maximum of €400
- the value of the prizes per event is a maximum of €1,550
You may organize a promotional game of chance if your sole purpose is to advertise—for example, a product, service, or organization. However, you must comply with the rules set forth in the Code of Conduct for Promotional Games of Chance. This Code of Conduct can be found on the Gaming Authority’s website at.
What should I do?
- If the total value of the prizes in the lottery or contest is less than €4,500, you must apply for a permit from the municipality. Do this at least 4 weeks in advance.
- If the total prize pool for the lottery or contest exceeds €4,500, you must apply for a license from the Gaming Authority.
- Please note! If you are organizing a contest and the total value of the prizes is less than €2,300, you do not need to apply for a permit.
Sign Up for Bingo
You must register the bingo event with the municipality at least 14 days in advance.
Gambling Tax
If you organize a lottery, contest, bingo, or other game of chance, you must pay gambling tax. This applies even if you do not need a license.
What do I need?
When submitting your license application or bingo notification, please provide the following information:
- the structure of the game of chance
- the date and time when you are organizing the game of chance
- the total value of the prizes
- Chamber of Commerce registration number (for your company or association)
- copy of the association's articles of incorporation
Arrange it online right away
The municipality of Voorschoten uses DigiD. Would you like to learn more or apply for a DigiD? If so, please visit www.digid.nl
The municipality of Voorschoten uses eHerkenning. Would you like to learn more or apply for an eHerkenning account? Please visit www.eherkenning.nl.
Permit Application for a Design Competition Using DigiD
Application for a Design Competition Permit Using eHerkenning
Registration Form for Organizing Bingo with DigiD
Registration Form for Organizing Bingo Using eHerkenning