Canadians have always been interested in and keen on gambling. Although legislation is a delicate matter as is with the other countries. The topic of whether online gambling in Canada is legal is not crystal clear. But there are some details that you need to pay attention to before you open an account at a casino for Canadians.
Finding a reputable online casino to play in is important. This allows you to feel comfortable that you are safe knowing that the website offers security and is legitimate. Here we have chosen a selection of casinos that accept Canadain players. They work with Canadian dollars, are mobile optimised, have a variety of games and banking methods. These casinos are:
On this page, you will find information on how to choose the most suitable online casinos for your taste. We have applied our criteria with the main points to consider when selecting. Read it to learn how to play securely and have fun.
The gambling laws in Canada used to be very strict but this changed with the Criminal Code update. Now each Canadian province has the freedom to decide whether to allow gambling on its territory or not. Thus, each province operates its laws and has its state lottery. Canadians have the right to buy lottery tickets online. But according to the province they live in, they may not be allowed to play online casino games. So, if the province you live in has approved online gambling, you can play games of chance.
The complicated part is when playing at overseas online casinos that aren’t approved by the regulators. Opening a casino account at overseas casinos is not legal. But a lot of international operators accept Canadian players. Neither of them is prosecuted. In Canada, there is no law prohibiting or legalising online gambling. If you choose to gamble at overseas casinos you risk as there is no protection and regulation.
Let’s make an example. A UK resident can files a complaint from a UKGC licensed online casino on any matter. This can be rigged games, forfeited winnings, confiscated promotions, or other issues. In such case, he can count on investigation form the UKGC. His matter will be dealt with and he can rely on the UKGC to protect his best interests as a British resident.
The situation changes if the same happens with a Canadian player. This won’t be the case especially if the casino is not licensed by the Canadian regulator. The player cannot expect such protection because Canada isn’t in the UKGC’s jurisdiction. But if you choose a respected online casino that has proven itself as a solid one, you shouldn’t have any problems. Make sure you choose only brands that are licensed by trusted regulators in Europe. Such is the UKGC, MGA, and in the best case both.
So, every province in Canada handles its gambling services independently. It is responsible for ensuring the security of its players. Still, there is a universal legislator that has the most influence of all. In the jurisdiction of Canada, the Kahnawake Gaming Commission controls the gambling services. It is the only authority that grants permits and licences in the country. Kahnawake is a sovereign tribal territory located in Southern Quebec. The commission keeps good relationships with the other gambling regulators.
It maintains good contacts with the Malta Gaming Authority and the Isle of Man Gambling Commission. The Kahnawake Gaming Commission often provides its services to offshore online casinos. Thus way it lets Canadian players gamble legally and safe there too. Canadians who search for the best online casinos should check for the logo of the Kahnawake Gaming Commission of Good Standing. This shows that the brand is legit.
The Kahnawake Gaming Commission is an authority based on the Indian reserve of Kahnawake. The latter is located on the territory of Canada. The KGC is the real regulator of Canada. Kahnawake is a sovereign nation. As such it may not be entirely governed under Canadian legislation.
Here we will give you some curious pieces of information. Most of them are about the history of the Canadian gambling market and the habits of the residents:
Finding the most suitable and proper online casino in Canada may seem a daunting task but we are here to help you. Next, we will highlight the most essential elements. They make great online casinos stand out and separate them from the ordinary ones. We have created criteria considering the main points when you search. Such is the diversity of games and the availability of generous welcome packages. The reliability of the customer support team and some other aspects are also covered.
As a general rule, proven names in the sphere have much more experience in fulfilling customers’ needs that new ones. Even so, this doesn’t mean that you should avoid new brands. Most of them are part of a parent company that has many online casinos operating under its umbrella.
The following criteria for choosing the best online Canadian casinos are generally common. This rules for other countries around the world too. But here, we will pay more attention to each element taking into account the situation with gambling in Canada. Newbies to online casinos better stick to more famous and proven casino brands.
Players are different and their preferences and needs also differ. Some may look for massive welcome bonuses. Others may prefer brands with more personality and uniqueness. Before choosing a casino make sure it ticks all the boxes of your requirements. The aspects we offer you to check are the following ones:
It doesn’t matter if you are a veteran or a beginner to the world of online gambling, check its bonuses. Welcome packages, daily and other regular bonuses are important factors you cannot ignore. They will not only boost your balance letting you start your journey on a good level. Promotional offers also reveal more about the brand. We recommend you to choose the best welcome bonus offers and free spins. The terms and conditions of the promotions must also be reasonable and achievable, not too tough. The online casino must be reliable.
Reputable online casinos provide regular incentives for new and existing players. There may be bonuses daily, on certain days of the week, and on special occasions. This is a significant factor that will make players happy and content at all times. The promotions pages can include free spins, reload bonuses, seasonal offers. You can find special deals on Christmas, Halloween, St Patricks’ Day, etc.
Besides abundant welcome packages for new players, online casinos attract with their loyalty programs. Regular and ongoing promotions will keep registered users pleased and happy. VIP programmes are dedicated and aimed at bolder players with rich budgets. These VIP players get special attention and regular prizes. Canadians gamblers can also take advantage of the VIP levels. These give them access to special benefits: larger bonuses, more gifts. There are prizes on birthdays and other important dates. Canadian gamers can even have their account manager. He will make sure all their needs are tended and taken care of.
Good online casinos in Canada offer a variety of fast and secure depositing and withdrawal methods. They usually work with the most proven payment providers. This guarantees that Canadians have the freedom and enough options to choose from. It also lets them ensure secure and protected transactions, done easily and with fewer fees. The depositing and withdrawal methods available for Canadians include iDebit, Interac, Instadebit. These are all Canadian-only ways.
For payments, the most common options are Click2Pay and Click and Buy. Most international online casinos allow Canadians to make deposits with MasterCard, Visa, PayPal. They can also deposit with Entropay, Skrill, Neteller, and iDebit.
Casino operators are well aware that the payment processing time is crucial for players. Any obstacles can lead to problems in keeping players and attracting new ones. One of the most frustrating things that may result in losing punters in the future is delays in withdrawing their winnings. The cash out times depend on the payment providers. The tendency is for them to become quicker with time. Head into the ‘Banking’ section of the online casino. There you can check the withdrawal time frames. Choose the speediest one from all casinos if this is a top priority to you.
The main reason for every user to visit online casinos is to play games. So, the selection that each brand offers is more than essential for making the final choice. The top-rated casinos are those that can offer you a wide selection of games. They provide various online slots, table games, jackpot slots, live dealer games, and video poker. Many of them include scratch cards, wheels of chance, and other extra options. The more abundant game types and titles there are available at an online provider, the less likely it is for players to look elsewhere.
Before making your final choice, browse through the game library. Try to find your favourite types and titles. Pay attention to the classic and most popular games if you don’t know what to look for. Another good indicator of an online casino is using more game providers. This shows that the selection is of top quality and there will be a rich variety of titles. Famous and well-known software providers will ensure the best games. They also provide the ones that are most desired by players.
In cases when you come upon errors during transactions, have queries or any questions that bother you, contact the casino. The operators should be able to attend them in a fast, courteous, and professional way. The representatives of online casinos should operate around the clock in the best case. They should be ready to deal with each issue. The methods for contact should also be several. The e-mail, phone numbers, and online chat should be present. The availability of 24/7 is the best option. When estimating the level of customer support pay special attention to these aspects:
There are the main points that make an online gaming hub excel in providing gambling services to players in Canada.
We all know that winning a jackpot can change anyone’s life. Offering games that let you take your chance on grand cash prizes is a big advantage for every casino. You can go and search among the game types for the jackpot category. Canadians, as well as players from other parts of the world, love jackpot slots. They let them take home impressive sums without too big investments. Some of the largest jackpot slots include Mega Moolah, Hall of Gods, Arabian Nights, Mega Fortune Dreams, and many others. The best online casinos need to have this category of games as a part of its selection.
The safety and security of your personal and banking information must be your top priority. Online casinos know that. Most of them ensure SSL encryption to the data transmitted between the parties. They may use firewall protection and hire companies to ensure a high level of security. Keeping users’ sensitive data inaccessible to third parties is a necessity.
The big names in iGaming have links to tools and websites that prevent gambling addiction. Dealing with such problems shows commitment and care. There is a special website for Canadians dedicated to dealing with problem gambling. This is ProblemGambling.ca. There you can find support for yourself or anyone who experiences problem gambling. Many self-help tools are available there that can be helpful.
Excellent 10 / 10
Not Accepted
Must be 18+ to Play
18+ Full T&Cs Apply. New UK players Only. £10 min. deposit. £5 max. bet using Bonus. 40 x wagering applies. Bonus valid for 14 days. 30 Spins on pre-selected games will be credited instantly + then 30 per day for 9 days. Free Spins valid for 72 hours from credit. Max. Free Spins winnings £100. Ewallets excluded.
Excellent 9 / 10
Not Accepted
Must be 18+ to Play
18+ Full T&Cs Apply. New UK players Only. £10 min. deposit. £5 max. bet using Bonus. 40 x wagering applies. Bonus valid for 14 days. 30 Spins on pre-selected games will be credited instantly + then 30 per day for 9 days. Free Spins valid for 72 hours from credit. Max. Free Spins winnings £100. Ewallets excluded.
Excellent 10 / 10
Not Accepted
Must be 18+ to Play
18+ Full T&Cs Apply. New UK players Only. £10 min. deposit. £5 max. bet using Bonus. 40 x wagering applies. Bonus valid for 14 days. 20 Spins on pre-selected games will be credited instantly + then 20 per day for 4 days. Free Spins valid for 72 hours from credit. Max. Free Spins winnings £100. Ewallets excluded.
Excellent 10 / 10
Not Accepted
Must be 18+ to Play
18+ Full T&Cs Apply. New UK players Only. £10 min. deposit. £5 max. bet using Bonus. 40 x wagering applies. Bonus valid for 14 days. 20 Spins on pre-selected games will be credited instantly + then 20 per day for 9 days. Free Spins valid for 72 hours from credit. Max. Free Spins winnings £100. Ewallets excluded.
Excellent 9 / 10
Not Accepted
Must be 18+ to Play
New customers only; Minimum deposit £20; Maximum bonus £100; Wager 40x before withdrawing; Game weighting applies – please see below table ID must be verified prior to participation. Bonus Betting limits: Slots – £5; All other games – 10% of bonus amount Terms & Conditions
Excellent 10 / 10
Not Accepted
Must be 18+ to Play
New customers only; Minimum deposit £20; Maximum bonus £200; Wager 40x before withdrawing; Game weighting applies, see below table; ID must be verified prior to participation; Bonus betting limits: Slots – £5 All other games – 10% of bonus amount. Terms & Conditions
Excellent 9 / 10
Not Accepted
Must be 18+ to Play
18+ Full T&Cs Apply. New UK players Only. £10 min. deposit. £5 max. bet using Bonus. 40 x wagering applies. Bonus valid for 14 days. 10 Spins on pre-selected games will be credited instantly + then 10 per day for 4 days. Free Spins valid for 72 hours from credit. Max. Free Spins winnings £100. Ewallets excluded.
Excellent 10 / 10
Not Accepted
Must be 18+ to Play
18+ Full T&Cs Apply. New UK players Only. £10 min. deposit. £5 max. bet using Bonus. 40 x wagering applies. Bonus valid for 14 days. 30 Spins on pre-selected games will be credited instantly + then 30 per day for 9 days. Free Spins valid for 72 hours from credit. Max. Free Spins winnings £100. Ewallets excluded.
Canada’s offline and online gambling environment is highly permissive and hospitable. There are hundreds of legal land-based casinos. You can find plenty of race tracks and new ones appearing on every corner. The Canadians are very lucky to have their gambling activities legal and regulated. Most of these services are available online at offshore casinos. But visiting a land-based casino in the country can also be a lot of fun. Every province in Canada houses top-notch venues with thousands of slot cabinets. There are table games with professional croupiers as hosts and video poker terminals.
Gambling in Canada is legal but still, every province has the right to establish its own rules and laws on these activities. The most common differences in legislation between them is the legal gambling age. Below are short reviews of the gambling regulations for every Canadian province.
Alberta is a place where you can find a few modern and luxurious land-based casinos. There aren’t any online casinos that are owned by the state. So, Alberta’s residents usually use the services of offshore online gaming hubs. To be allowed to gamble, residents need to be at the age of 18 and over.
British Columbia is one of the other provinces of Canada. It is proud to have regulated online gambling. Players have the option to choose state-owned casinos or casinos that are offshore. Gamers of age over 19 can take part in gambling activities.
The gambling scene in Ontario is flourishing. It can boost with 72 land-based casinos, 894 tables, and over 32,000 slots. The possibilities for gaming in Ontario are plenty and diverse. They are available both online and in brick and mortar casinos. The legal gambling age there is 19.Québec is the largest Canadian province. Residents need to have the age of 19 or over it to be able to play games of chance according to the law. The province is home to 10 brick and mortar casinos. Residents of Québec can select from the diversity of hundreds of online casinos.
