In Angola, the practice of purchasing lottery tickets is governed by the Lei da Actividade de Jogos (Law No. 5/16 of 17 May 2016), which establishes the legal framework for all games of chance, social games, and remote online games across national territory (1). This law grants the Angolan State exclusive rights to exploit gambling activities, but allows private operators to participate under strict concession agreements (2).
Under this regime, the National Lottery operates as a “jogo social,” meaning it is a social game conducted outside of casinos and subject to regulation by the Instituto de Supervisão de Jogos (ISJ). Any individual buying tickets from the officially licensed concessionaire is acting within the bounds of Angolan law, provided the operator holds a valid concession and follows ISJ oversight (1)(2).
"The general rule is that the right for exploitation of gambling activities is reserved to the Angolan State. That right can, however, be acquired through a concession agreement, as established in Article 5 of the Gambling Activity Law."
Purchasers must be at least 18 years old, as the law prohibits minors from participating in any form of gambling. Winnings and operators are subject to a special gaming tax, and all licensed operators must ensure transparency, responsible gaming measures, and compliance with anti–money laundering provisions enforced by the ISJ (1).
Source:
https://www.bfa.ao/media/1570/lei-n%C2%BA-05_16-de-17-de-maio.pdf
https://cms.law/en/int/expert-guides/cms-expert-guide-to-gambling-laws-in-africa/angola
Last updated: 20-05-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
