
EuroMillions is known for its substantial potential prizes, but the role of the Lucky Stars can seem unclear if you are new to the game. You may have heard that they sit alongside the main numbers, yet not fully understood how they affect your ticket’s result.
This guide starts with that broader picture and then explains how the Lucky Stars work, what matching two of them means for your ticket, and how the various prize tiers fit together. It also covers typical winnings, the odds involved, and how different number combinations interact.
Read on to learn more about EuroMillions and how its prize structure works.
In every EuroMillions draw, players select five main numbers and two Lucky Stars from a separate pool of twelve. At first, it may seem as though the Lucky Stars simply form their own category.
As you look more closely, it becomes clearer that they work alongside the main numbers to determine which prize tier a ticket falls into. Different combinations of main numbers and Lucky Stars lead to different tiers.
This naturally raises the next question: What does it mean if you match both Lucky Stars but none of the main numbers?
Matching only the two Lucky Stars does not result in a prize, which can often be a source of confusion. While the Lucky Stars are essential for the higher prize tiers, the EuroMillions prize table does not include a category for “0 main numbers + 2 Lucky Stars.”
The lowest-paying tiers always require at least one main number to be matched.
If you want to check the payout for a tier that does include main numbers—such as 1 main number + 2 Stars or 2 main numbers + 2 Stars—you can refer to the official draw summary once the results are announced.
No—matching the two Lucky Stars alone does not qualify for a prize.
To win, a ticket must meet one of the following conditions:
This often surprises players, so it’s worth emphasising: Lucky Stars only contribute to a prize when paired with enough main numbers.
The next section puts this into context by showing where each combination fits within the overall prize table.
EuroMillions has 13 prize tiers that cover different combinations of main numbers and Lucky Stars. In addition, UK players are entered into the UK Millionaire Maker, which selects one code at random to win £1,000,000.
Potential prizes are pari-mutuel, which means they come from a prize pool and can change from one draw to the next. More matches generally mean a higher tier and a larger share of the pool, though even some lower tiers pay out for modest matches.
Below is a simplified breakdown of the current EuroMillions prize tiers. Values may vary by draw, and the figures shown are illustrative only:
Each tier has its own share of the prize pool, and the number of winners in that tier affects the final amount paid.
Matching both Lucky Stars on their own does not place a ticket in any prize tier.
However, when those two Stars are matched alongside main numbers, the tier and potential prize improve significantly, as outlined in the previous prize tier list. For example:
These follow the common patterns of recent draws, though actual values shift with the prize pool and number of winners.
The odds depend on the combination matched. Hitting the top tier of five main numbers and two Lucky Stars is the hardest outcome to achieve. As combinations require fewer matches, the odds improve, and the potential prize amounts decrease.
All draws are random. Each entry faces the same probabilities, and nothing can increase the chance of matching a particular set of numbers.
Yes. Combining main numbers with Lucky Stars generally places a ticket in a higher prize tier than matching Lucky Stars or main numbers on their own (though Lucky Stars alone never form a tier). The prize tier list featured earlier in this blog post shows how the tiers step up as more main numbers and Lucky Stars are matched, with the top potential prize reserved for all five main numbers and both Stars.
This is why two Stars alongside even a small number of main numbers usually pays more than fewer Stars with the same number of main numbers.
After the draw, check the official results to see which numbers were selected and whether your ticket matches a prize tier. The amount you receive depends on the combination matched and how that tier is paid out in that draw.
If you play online and win, smaller prizes are typically paid straight into your National Lottery account. For retail tickets, most smaller wins can be claimed in-store. If you win a larger prize, this may involve a visit to a designated centre or arranging payment with The National Lottery. In the UK, prizes are paid as a lump sum and are not subject to income tax, though it is worth reviewing the terms that apply to the way you played.
If you decide to play, keep it within your budget. Support is available if you ever need it; organisations such as GamCare and GambleAware provide free, confidential help.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins, etc.) mentioned in relation to this game are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.
**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.