Can an undocumented immigrant win Mega Millions? Rules for playing the U.S. Lottery in 2025
The U.S. lottery does not require legal residency, but winners must follow tax and identification rules. Here’s everything you need to know before playing.
The Mega Millions lottery is one of the most popular games of chance in the United States, offering jackpots that can reach hundreds of millions of dollars. Many people wonder if undocumented immigrants or non-U.S. residents are allowed to play and claim prizes.
In 2025, the rules remain clear: anyone can buy a Mega Millions ticket, regardless of their citizenship or immigration status. However, claiming a jackpot as a non-resident comes with specific legal and tax implications that players should be aware of before participating.
Can an undocumented immigrant play Mega Millions?
Yes, Mega Millions is open to everyone who legally purchases a ticket from an authorized retailer within a participating state. The game does not require U.S. citizenship or legal residency, meaning that undocumented immigrants, tourists, and foreign nationals can all participate.
The only condition is that the ticket must be physically bought within the United States. Online lottery ticket sales are only available in some states, and many platforms require a U.S. address for registration.
Mega Millions: One ticket, endless possibilities. Photo: LR Composition
Can a Non-U.S. resident claim Mega Millions winnings?
Winning the Mega Millions jackpot as a non-resident is possible, but there are important rules to follow:
- Any player who holds a winning ticket can claim the prize, regardless of immigration status.
- A winner must present valid identification, such as a passport, consular ID, or taxpayer identification number (ITIN).
- Non-residents are subject to different tax rates when claiming lottery winnings.
How can an undocumented immigrant claim lottery winnings?
To claim a Mega Millions prize, winners must provide identification. The following documents may be accepted:
- Passport (from any country)
- Consular ID
- Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) (if available)
Large jackpot winners often need to visit a lottery office in person and may have to disclose their identity publicly, depending on the state’s rules. If an undocumented immigrant wins a significant amount, seeking advice from a legal or financial expert is highly recommended.