Under Nepal’s Lottery Act, 2025 (1968), only government-authorized lotteries may lawfully issue and sell tickets within Nepal. This Act vests the Ministry of Home Affairs with exclusive authority to grant licenses and regulate all facets of public lotteries (1).
Private lotteries, private betting, and any unauthorized sale or distribution of tickets are explicitly prohibited under Nepalese law. The Gambling Act, 2020 (1963) further criminalizes arranging or participating in unlicensed lotteries, with penalties enforceable by police and judicial authorities (2).
"Whoever commits any act contrary to this Act shall be liable to a fine as per the proved amount claimed by plaintiff or to an imprisonment not exceeding Six months or the both and the said claimed amount shall be forfeited."
Prospective players should ensure tickets are purchased only from recognized government outlets or official websites to avoid legal risks. All winners and vendors must comply with reporting requirements under the Income Tax Act, 2058 (2002), which classifies lottery winnings as taxable income (1).
Source:
https://legaladvisorsnepal.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/lottery-act-2025-1968.pdf
https://moha.gov.np/en/service/14
Last updated: 20-05-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
