Player Winnings Tax Calculator

How Gambling Winnings Are Taxed in Europe

One of the most common questions players ask is: "Do I have to pay tax on my gambling winnings?" The answer in Europe is generally more favorable than in countries like the United States, where all gambling winnings are considered taxable income.

According to European Commission taxation guidelines, EU member states have autonomy over gambling taxation, leading to significant variation across the continent. Most EU countries have adopted a model where operators pay taxes on their revenue, rather than taxing individual player winnings.

The European Model: Operator Taxation

In most EU jurisdictions, gambling taxes are collected at the operator level through:

• Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) Tax: Operators pay a percentage of their net revenue (stakes minus payouts)
• License Fees: Upfront and annual fees for operating licenses
• Corporate Tax: Standard corporate income tax on profits

This approach means that when you win at a licensed casino or bookmaker in countries like Germany, France, Italy, or the Netherlands, you typically keep 100% of your winnings. The tax has already been paid by the operator.

For a detailed comparison of how operators are taxed across EU countries, see our EU Gambling Tax Calculator for operators.

Country-by-Country Overview

When Gambling Winnings May Be Taxable

While most recreational players won't owe taxes, there are scenarios where gambling income may become taxable:

Professional Gamblers

If gambling is your primary source of income, many EU countries classify this as professional activity subject to income tax. The OECD's tax policy framework provides guidance on how countries typically classify economic activities for tax purposes. Key indicators of professional gambling include:

• Gambling provides the majority of your income
• You dedicate significant time to gambling activities
• You employ systematic strategies or analysis
• You maintain records like a business would

Offshore or Unlicensed Operators

Winnings from operators not licensed in your country or the EU may not benefit from the same tax treatment. Some countries specifically tax winnings from foreign gambling sources. This is another reason to stick with properly regulated operators.

Large Lottery Prizes

Some countries apply special taxes to lottery prizes above certain thresholds. Spain taxes lottery winnings above 40,000 EUR at 20%, while Portugal applies a 20% stamp duty on gambling prizes. For more information on lottery-specific rules, the European Lotteries Association provides regulatory information by country.

Special Considerations by Gambling Type

Poker Winnings

Poker occupies a unique position because skill plays a significant role. In some countries, regular poker winnings may be considered taxable income, especially for tournament professionals. France applies specific social contributions (CSG/CRDS) to poker winnings, even for recreational players with large wins. Our guide on casino vs sports betting regulations explains how different products are treated differently.

Cryptocurrency Gambling

Gambling with cryptocurrency adds complexity. Even if gambling winnings aren't taxed, converting crypto winnings to fiat currency may trigger capital gains tax obligations. See our cryptocurrency gambling guide for more details on this emerging area.

Cross-Border Considerations

EU residents gambling in other member states generally benefit from freedom of services principles. However, the tax treatment follows your country of residence, not where the operator is located. If you're considering gambling while traveling, our cross-border gambling guide covers player rights and legal considerations.

Responsible Gambling and Financial Planning

While understanding tax obligations is important, responsible gambling practices should always come first. Large winnings can create unexpected financial and psychological challenges. Consider:

• Setting Limits: Use our Personal Gambling Limits Calculator to establish healthy boundaries
• Self-Assessment: Take our Gambling Self-Assessment to evaluate your gambling behavior
• Bankroll Management: Use our Bankroll Calculator to plan sessions responsibly

For professional support with gambling-related issues, organizations like Gambling Therapy provide free, confidential support in multiple languages.

Last Updated: December 2025