What Is EuroMillions?

EuroMillions is a transnational lottery played across multiple European countries, offering some of the largest jackpots on the continent. Launched in 2004, it is operated jointly by national lottery operators in the United Kingdom, France, Spain, Portugal, Ireland, Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, and Switzerland.

How EuroMillions Works

Players select:

  • 5 main numbers from a pool of 1–50
  • 2 Lucky Stars from a pool of 1–12

To win the jackpot, you must match all 5 main numbers plus both Lucky Stars. Draws take place every Tuesday and Friday evening.

Prize Tiers

EuroMillions has 13 prize tiers, making it one of the most generous lotteries for smaller wins:

MatchTier
5 + 2 Lucky StarsJackpot
5 + 1 Lucky StarTier 2
5 + 0 Lucky StarsTier 3
4 + 2 Lucky StarsTier 4
4 + 1 Lucky StarTier 5
3 + 2 Lucky StarsTier 6
4 + 0 Lucky StarsTier 7
2 + 2 Lucky StarsTier 8
3 + 1 Lucky StarTier 9
3 + 0 Lucky StarsTier 10
1 + 2 Lucky StarsTier 11
2 + 1 Lucky StarTier 12
2 + 0 Lucky StarsTier 13

Jackpot Odds and Caps

The odds of winning the EuroMillions jackpot are approximately 1 in 139.8 million. While still very long, these odds are notably better than Powerball or Mega Millions.

EuroMillions jackpots start at €17 million and can roll over up to a cap of €250 million. Once the cap is reached, it can be won at that level for up to four consecutive draws. If still unclaimed, the jackpot cascades down to the next winning tier — meaning a lucky lower-tier winner could claim the full accumulated prize.

The EuroMillions HotPicks

In the UK, players can also participate in EuroMillions HotPicks — a side game where you select fewer numbers (1 to 5) and win a fixed prize if all your chosen numbers match the main EuroMillions draw. This offers better odds on fixed prizes but no access to the main jackpot.

Ticket Prices Across Countries

Ticket prices vary slightly between participating countries due to currency and tax differences. In the UK, a standard line costs £2.50. In most eurozone countries, the price is €2.50. Additional options like Lucky Dip (random number selection) are available everywhere.

Claiming Prizes

Prize rules differ by country. In the UK, prizes up to £500 can be claimed at any lottery retailer. Larger prizes must be claimed through the National Lottery. Winners generally have 180 days from the draw date to claim — always check the rules in your country of purchase.

Tax Treatment

One significant advantage of EuroMillions for European players: most participating countries do not tax lottery winnings at the point of receipt. UK winners pay no tax on winnings, for example. However, interest or investment income earned from winnings may be taxable — consult a financial advisor for guidance specific to your situation.

Key Facts at a Glance

  • Founded: 2004
  • Participating countries: 9
  • Draw days: Tuesday and Friday
  • Format: 5 from 50 + 2 Lucky Stars from 12
  • Jackpot odds: ~1 in 139.8 million
  • Jackpot cap: €250 million
  • Prize tiers: 13