Gambling in Norway
Article | Last updated: 03/11/2026 | Ministry of Culture and Equality
The overarching goal of regulating the gambling market in Norway is to prevent gambling problems and other negative consequences of gambling, as well as to ensure that gambling is conducted in a responsible and safe manner. The regulation also aims to ensure that the profits from gambling go to non-profit purposes. The main objectives in Norwegian gambling policy are not equal in priority. Responsible gambling is the primary objective.
Norwegian gambling policy and the exclusive rights model reflect three general, primary objectives:
- Prevention of problematic gambling behaviour
- Prevention of financial irregularities
- Limitation of private profit
Major gambling activities in Norway are marketed under an exclusive rights model. Norsk Tipping has the exclusive right to deliver gambling services, while Stiftelsen Norsk Rikstoto has the exclusive right to offer gambling on horse racing and horse trotting.
The Ministry of Culture and Equality is responsible for the governance of Norsk Tipping AS. The ministry also has the right to appoint a majority of the members of the board of Stiftelsen Norsk Rikstoto. This arrangement is intended to ensure sound public supervision and management of the gambling market.
In addition, nonprofit organisations may be granted a permit to offer gambling on a limited scale, for example bingo in bingo halls. These gambling activities are intended to supplement, not compete with, the gambling activities offered by the exclusive rights operators. Smaller gambling activities can be offered without a permit but can't sell for more than 200 000 Norwegian kroner.