The EuroMillions is a lottery that involves selecting both main numbers and additional “Lucky Star” numbers, which can make the rules seem complicated at first. For those unfamiliar with lottery games, terms like these may not be immediately clear. Understanding how the number combinations work is essential to knowing how prizes are awarded.
This guide provides a clear overview of how many numbers need to be matched to win at different prize levels in the EuroMillions. It explains the structure of the game in a straightforward way, helping you better understand how prizes are determined.

The EuroMillions is a lottery played across several European countries, including the UK. When taking part, you select five main numbers from 1 to 50 and two separate Lucky Stars from 1 to 12. These two sets of numbers form your entry.
Draws take place every Tuesday and Friday evening. During each draw, five main numbers and two Lucky Stars are chosen at random, and every valid number combination has the same probability of being selected.
In the UK, one line for the EuroMillions costs £2.50. This also includes entry into the UK Millionaire Maker, which guarantees that at least one UK player receives a £1 million prize in each draw. Tickets can be bought from licensed retailers or through the official National Lottery website or app. You must be at least 18 years old to take part.
Each line you purchase counts as a single entry. Any prize awarded depends entirely on how many of your numbers match the numbers drawn. The format of the game remains consistent, although there may occasionally be promotional draws that offer additional features.
The EuroMillions is regulated by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). Draw procedures follow strict security and verification measures, and every ticket is checked against the official results to ensure accuracy and fairness.
The EuroMillions offers 13 prize tiers, and each one is based on how many of your chosen numbers match the numbers drawn. Because this is a game of chance, winning is not guaranteed, and prize amounts can vary from draw to draw.
UK players are also entered into the UK Millionaire Maker, which guarantees one £1,000,000 prize per draw.
Prize amounts depend on several factors, including ticket sales and how many players qualify for each tier. The jackpot can reach an upper limit, and once capped, additional funds roll down into the next prize tier.
For UK participants, prizes are paid as one-off lump sums and are not currently subject to UK tax. Rules may differ for players in other participating countries.
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In the EuroMillions, you need to match at least two main numbers to receive a prize. The main numbers range from 1 to 50, and the amount you receive depends on how many numbers you match overall. Matching more numbers can move you into a higher prize tier.
The game also uses two Lucky Stars, drawn from a separate pool of 1 to 12. Matching these alongside your main numbers can place you in a higher tier. The jackpot is awarded only when all five main numbers and both Lucky Stars match.
There are 13 prize tiers in total, offering different outcomes depending on the combination you match. Although winning is not guaranteed, understanding these tiers may make the structure of the game easier to follow.
The EuroMillions is drawn twice each week, with draws taking place on Tuesday and Friday evenings. These draws use approved equipment and are carried out under strict procedures to ensure consistency and fairness. Once the draw has taken place, the winning numbers are published shortly afterwards.
If you choose to enter, the ticket cut-off time can vary depending on whether you buy a ticket online or from a retailer, so checking the deadline in advance may help you avoid missing a draw.
Each draw is completely independent, meaning the outcome of one draw does not influence the next. Lottery games are based on chance, and there is no guarantee of winning. If you decide to take part, it may help to stay mindful of your budget and only play in a way that feels manageable for you.
If you think you’ve won a EuroMillions prize, the way to claim it will depend on how and where you bought your ticket.
For tickets bought in-store, prizes of up to £100 can usually be paid out directly by the retailer. Some shops may also pay out prizes up to £500, depending on their policies. If your prize is between £501 and £50,000, you may need to submit a claim through The National Lottery.
For prizes over £50,000, you’ll need to contact The National Lottery to arrange your claim- identification will be required as part of the process.
If you bought your ticket online or through the official National Lottery app, smaller prizes are usually added to your online account automatically.
Prizes over £50,000 must be claimed in person within the official claim period. To begin the process, you are required to call the National Lottery, so your win can be registered. A date and time will then be arranged for you to complete the claim.
There is a 180-day limit from the date of the draw to claim any potential prize. If a prize is not claimed within this period, it will be used to support National Lottery-funded projects across the UK.
Remember that playing the lottery is a form of entertainment, not a way to make money. Only spend what you can afford, and never chase losses.
**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins etc.) mentioned in relation to these games are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.