Ontario Online Gambling Overview
Essential ON Gambling Info
Status
– Online Gambling Launch Date: October 19, 2021
– Online Casinos Launch Date: April 4, 2022
– Casino Operators Licensed in ON: 888.ca, bet365, BetMGM Casino, BetRivers Casino, Caesars Casino, Coolbet Casino, DraftKings Casino, FanDuel Casino, Fitzdares Casino, Jackpot City, LeoVegas, lottogo.ca, Party Casino, Royal Panda, Ruby Fortune, Spin Casino, Unibet.ca Casino
– Available Casino Bonuses: Free spins, match deposit bonus, no deposit bonus, welcome bonus
– Permitted Casino Games: Baccarat, bingo, blackjack, craps, keno, live dealer games, lottery, roulette, slots, video poker
– Online Poker Availability: Yes
– Legal Gambling Age in ON: 19+
– Accepted Payment Methods: INSTADEBIT, Interac, credit card, debit card, bank transfer
– Ontario Gambling Regulator: Alcohol and Gambling Commission of Ontario (AGCO)
2022 was a significant year for Ontario’s gambling landscape as the province witnessed a substantial transformation in its gambling laws. Until spring that year, Ontario players had limited options, having to rely on offshore casinos or the single gambling site operated by the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Group (OLG.ca). However, on April 4, 2022, the province opened its gambling market, granting licenses through iGaming Ontario to major private operators in casino games and sportsbook betting. With this change, Ontario players now have more opportunities to enjoy online gambling through secure and legitimate casinos.
Since its launch, Ontario’s online gambling industry has experienced rapid expansion, and the province is now home to over 40 online casinos. Prominent sites such as BetMGM, Caesars, DraftKings, Unibet, and Party Casino have already established a presence, with many more renowned brands expected to enter the market in the coming months and years. It is advisable for interested players to stay updated on the latest Ontario casinos by bookmarking relevant websites.
How to Play With Ontario Casinos
Whether you wish to play casino games for real money or for free, the first step is to register an account with a legal Ontario gambling site. The process is simple and can be completed within minutes by following these steps:
1. Select a recommended casino from the list provided and click on the “Sign Up” button on the casino’s homepage.
2. Enter your details, including your name, address, and email, ensuring that you meet Ontario’s minimum age and location requirements. Failure to meet these requirements will prevent you from proceeding with the signup process.
3. Choose a welcome bonus from the list provided or enter a promo code, if available. It is essential to opt-in to receive your welcome offer.
4. Verify your email address as instructed by the casino.
5. Choose your preferred banking option for depositing cash into your account.
6. Some Ontario casinos may request supporting documents to verify your details during this stage.
After completing these steps, you will be ready to start playing your favorite slots or table games.
Accepted Ontario Online Casino Banking Methods
Once you have registered with an online casino in Ontario, you will want to deposit cash into your account. The process is straightforward, and here are the steps to follow:
1. Log in to your account and navigate to the banking section.
2. Choose your preferred banking option from the list provided.
3. Enter the relevant details, such as your card number, e-wallet address, or other personal banking information.
4. Decide on the amount you want to deposit, ensuring that it meets the minimum deposit limit set by both the banking method and the online casino.
5. Enter your password when prompted and click on the “Deposit” button. After refreshing the page, your funds should appear in your account.
It is important to note that Ontario online casinos are required by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) to provide responsible gambling tools, including the ability to set timed deposit limits. During the banking process, casinos may ask if you want to add restrictions on the amount and frequency of your deposits to promote responsible gambling.
In some cases, certain banking methods may not be compatible with online casinos. For example, Canadian retail store-branded credit cards and select credit cards from US financial institutions may reject online gambling transactions. In such instances, Ontario players should consider using credit cards issued by Canadian banks or explore alternative payment options commonly accepted by most Ontario online casinos.
Who Can Play at Ontario Online Casinos?
To play at Ontario online casinos, individuals must be at least 19 years old and located within the province. Most online gambling operators utilize geolocation tools like GeoComply to verify players’ whereabouts. These tools are built into mobile devices or desktops and help ensure compliance with the province’s regulations. If an Ontario casino cannot verify a player’s location, additional measures may be required, such as downloading a geo-validator tool.
What Legal Requirements Must Players Meet for Ontario Casinos?
Licensed Ontario online casinos are responsible for verifying players’ details during the account registration process. To open an account, players must provide a valid email address and home address, and they may be asked to provide additional documents as proof, such as a driver’s license or recent utility bill.
Who Regulates Online Casinos in Ontario?
The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) has been the regulator for gambling in the province since February 23, 1998. In July 2021, the AGCO established iGaming Ontario, a subsidiary tasked with overseeing licensing for private online gambling operators entering the Ontario market in 2022. The AGCO ensures that Ontario casinos comply with the province’s laws and regulations, ensuring fair play and player safety.
The Top Legal Games to Play at Ontario Online Casinos
Ontario’s online casinos offer a wide range of games, expanding upon the options previously available through the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG). Here are some of the exciting casino games you can expect to find at regulated online casinos in Ontario:
Online Slots
Experience the thrill of spinning reels and huge jackpots with online slots. New Ontario casinos offer a variety of Vegas slots, along with progressive jackpots and innovative slot games featuring side quests.
Roulette
Roulette is equally exciting when played online, especially with live dealer casinos. Enjoy a larger selection of real money roulette games and higher betting limits at online casinos.
Blackjack
Play the easy and fun card game of blackjack against the dealer to see who can reach a hand value of 21 without going over. Online casinos offer free blackjack games for practice or the option to play with real money.
Live Dealer Games
With live dealer casinos, you can play your favorite games with players across Ontario, all from the comfort of your own home. Live blackjack, roulette, and baccarat are just a few of the exciting options available in these online casinos.
Online Craps
Enjoy the thrilling dice game of craps with more betting options and chances to win. While OLG casinos may not offer real money craps online, many new Ontario casinos provide this popular table game.
Video Poker
Make a strong poker hand and potentially win big with video poker. Enjoy a variety of video poker games online, including Aces & Eights, Joker Poker, and Jacks or Better.
Baccarat
Try your hand at James Bond’s favorite casino game, baccarat. Online casinos in Ontario offer online baccarat with good payouts and higher betting limits.
Keno
Online keno offers a refreshing twist on the popular game, with bigger jackpots, more themes, and additional casino bonuses to enhance your gaming experience.
Lottery
Online lottery games offer the chance to win life-changing jackpots. Ontario’s online casinos feature a variety of lottery games with bigger jackpots and more game variations compared to traditional lottery tickets.
Bingo
Enjoy the excitement of bingo with the opportunity to win huge jackpots. Online bingo offers a greater variety of games and bigger jackpots, along with the ability to chat with players from all over Ontario.
Mobile Casino Apps for Ontario Players
The new gambling laws in Ontario have resulted in a wider choice of mobile casino apps for players to enjoy. The best mobile casinos offer real money games, as well as demo versions of popular slots and table games optimized for various devices. These casino apps are available to download for free via respective app stores, such as the Google Play Store for Android devices and the App Store for iOS devices.
Ontario Casino Apps for Android
Android users can find most casino apps in the Google Play Store. Alternatively, they can visit the casino’s website on their mobile browser and download the app from there. During the download process, the app may request access to specific information on the device, such as location, to ensure compliance with Ontario’s gambling regulations.
Ontario Casino Apps for iOS
Casino apps are also available for iPhones and other Apple devices, including iPads. Users can find these apps listed in the App Store. After downloading the app, players can complete the sign-up process directly on their phone.
If players prefer to play with a specific Ontario casino on their mobile device, they can access the casino through their mobile browser. Casinos often provide a link to their apps on their homepage, redirecting users to the relevant app store for download.
History of Online Gambling Laws in Ontario
Online gambling has come a long way in Ontario. Initially, the Canadian Criminal Code (CCC) strictly prohibited all forms of gambling in Canada, including Ontario, in 1892. However, the Canadian Government soon recognized the value of gambling in raising funds for charitable purposes. In 1900, bingo and raffles were permitted for charitable fundraising, followed by horse racing a decade later.
It wasn’t until 1969 that the Canadian Government amended the CCC, allowing federal and provincial governments to operate their own lotteries. This marked the beginning of several milestones that shaped the history of online gambling in Ontario.
Over five decades later, in April 2022, online casinos finally became legal in Ontario. Under the supervision of the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) and iGaming Ontario, players in ON can now legally enjoy casino games and slots at regulated online gambling venues. The following timeline highlights key events in Ontario’s online casino gambling history:
– February 1975: The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) is established.
– June 1985: Provincial governments gain independent control over their casino laws.
– February 1998: The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario is established.
– May 1994: Casino Windsor (now Caesars Windsor) opens as Ontario’s first land-based casino.
– May 1994: The Ontario Casino Corporation is launched to oversee casino gaming in the province.
– July 1996: Casino Rama, the first First Nations casino in Ontario, opens.
– February 2021: Bill C-218, the Safe and Regulated Sports Betting Act, decriminalizes single-game betting across Canada.
– July 2021: iGaming Ontario, a subsidiary of the AGCO, is established to oversee licensing for private online gambling operators.
– November 2021: The AGCO releases a compliance guide for operators entering the regulated market.
– January 2022: The launch date for Ontario’s iGaming industry is set for April 4, 2022.
– April 2022: Private gambling operators, including industry leaders like FanDuel and DraftKings, launch in Ontario.
– May 2022: DraftKings Casino secures an iGaming Ontario Operating License.
– August 2022: Ontario is home to around 30 legal online casinos, with new additions like JackpotCity, Ruby Fortune, and Spin Casino.
The ongoing development of Ontario’s gambling market is expected to bring forth more online casinos and land-based venues. It is an exciting time for both operators and players as the province’s gambling industry continues to grow.
Regulated vs Offshore Casinos in Ontario: What’s the Difference?
With the introduction of private casino operators in Ontario, players often question the difference between regulated online casinos, offshore casinos, and government-owned casinos. It is important to understand the distinctions and their potential implications.
Government-Owned Casinos
Pros:
– Regulated and licensed in Ontario
– Local dispute resolution providers
– Can play in Canadian dollars
– Money invested in the community
– Local customer support
– Local responsible gambling support
Cons:
– Fewer games
– Smaller bonuses
Licensed Casinos
Pros:
– Extensive game selection
– Licensed in Ontario
– Regular casino bonuses
– Local customer support
– Can play in Canadian dollars
– Must provide responsible gambling resources
Cons:
– Bonuses must align with iGaming Ontario and AGCO regulations
Offshore Casinos
Pros:
– Wide game selection
– Huge jackpots
– Bigger casino bonuses
– High deposit/withdrawal limits
Cons:
– May not accept Canadian dollars
– Less trustworthy
– No local customer support
– No obligation to promote responsible gambling
While offshore casinos are not illegal in Ontario, they come with additional risks for players. Disputes with offshore casinos are harder to resolve, as they are not bound by the same safety and security standards as regulated online casinos in Ontario. Therefore, it is generally advisable for players to choose regulated casinos for a safer and more reliable gambling experience.
ON Online Casinos vs ON Land-Based Casinos: Which is Better?
The choice between online casinos and land-based casinos depends on individual preferences when playing casino games. Both options offer unique advantages and disadvantages.
Online Casinos
Pros:
– Wider bet limits
– More game options
– New games released frequently
– More casino bonuses and regular promotions
– Convenient gaming from anywhere
Cons:
– Less social interaction
– Transaction fees may apply
– Requires stable internet connection
Land-based Casinos
Pros:
– Bigger progressive jackpots
– Complimentary rewards such as free drinks or hotel stays
– More social atmosphere
– No payment fees
Cons:
– Less convenient due to travel requirements
– Smaller bet limits
– Limited to specific locations
Ultimately, the choice between online and land-based casinos depends on personal preferences, convenience, and the overall experience players are seeking. Some players may prefer the convenience and variety offered by online casinos, while others may enjoy the social atmosphere and additional perks available at land-based casinos.
Which Online Casinos Will be Regulated in Ontario?
Regulated online casinos in Ontario offer players a safer and more reliable gambling experience. Many private casino operators have applied for licenses in the province, aiming to tap into Ontario’s extensive gambling market. Here are some of the best online casinos that have obtained licenses in Ontario:
– LeoVegas
– Best Feature: Mobile gaming
– Games: 3,000+ slots, 60+ table games
– Payout Times: 1-5 days
– Casino App Availability: iOS and Android
– Live Dealer Options: Over 70 games, including roulette, blackjack, baccarat, and more
– Game Companies: Over 40
– 888.ca casino
– Best Feature: Casino bonuses
– Games: 1,000+ slots, 18+ table games, 25+ scratch cards, 10+ video poker
– Payout Times: 1-10 days
– Casino App Availability: iOS and Android
– Live Dealer Options: Over 150 games, including roulette, blackjack, baccarat, and more
– Game Companies: 5+
– Royal Panda
– Best Feature: Live casino games
– Games: 35+ slots, 22+ table games, 3 video poker, 13 scratch cards
– Payout Times: 1-7 days
– Casino App Availability: iOS and Android
– Live Dealer Options: Over 23 games, including roulette, blackjack, baccarat, and more
– Game Companies: 12+
In addition to these, several other renowned online casinos have obtained licenses in Ontario, including Bet365 Casino, Bwin Casino, BetMGM Casino, and Party Casino, among others. These regulated online casinos offer players a safe, fair, and enjoyable gaming experience.
What Other Online Casinos May Open in Ontario in the Future?
Ontario’s regulated gambling market presents a significant opportunity for both well-established and emerging online gambling operators. As the province continues to develop its gambling industry, many notable brands are expected to enter the market in the future. Here are some of the online gambling operators that have applied for licenses in Ontario:
– Amazon Slots
– Bet99
– BetVictor
– Casigo
– CasinoCom
– Casumo
– Fire Vegas
– GG Poker
– Mansion
– partypoker
– Rhino
– SuprSeven
– Tonybet
– William Hill
These operators recognize the massive potential of Ontario’s gambling industry and are eager to offer their services to the province’s players. As the licensing process progresses, more online casinos are expected to launch in Ontario, providing players with an even greater variety of options.
What are the Best Land-Based Casinos in Ontario?
Ontario’s land-based casinos offer players a unique gambling experience beyond just casino games. These venues often feature luxurious amenities such as spa facilities, theaters hosting renowned performers, and high-quality restaurants. Here are some of the best land-based casinos in Ontario:
Fallsview Casino Resort, Niagara
– Address: 6380 Fallsview Boulevard, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 3W6
– Operator: Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment
– Features: Over 3,500 slots, 130 table games, 200,000 square feet of casino space, entertainment centers, spa, gym, and shops.
Caesars Casino Windsor Ontario
– Address: 377 Riverside Drive E., Windsor, ON N9A 7H7
– Operator: Caesars Entertainment
– Features: Two towers, seven restaurants, six upscale bars/clubs, Colosseum theatre hosting renowned artists, 2,230 slot machines, and 85 table games.
Casino Rama, Orillia
– Address: 5899 Rama Road, Orillia, ON L3V 6H6
– Operator: Gateway Casinos & Entertainment Limited
– Features: 192,000 square feet of casino area, 2,500 slot games with progressive jackpots, 110 table games, 5,000-capacity entertainment center, spa, pool, and gym.
These top land-based casinos offer a variety of entertainment options in addition to casino games, providing visitors with an unforgettable experience.
What Casinos Will Open in Ontario in the Future?
The changes in Ontario’s gambling legislation have attracted the interest of numerous casino operators, leading to an influx of new casinos set to open in the province. In the coming years, Ontario may see the launch of land-based casinos such as Gateway London Casino and Hard Rock Casino Ottawa. Additionally, the Kingsway Entertainment District Casino has announced plans for a grand opening in 2025.
Ontario’s gambling market is continuously evolving, offering players a promising future filled with new casinos and exciting gaming experiences. Keep an eye out for the latest updates on upcoming casinos near you.
How We Rate Ontario Online Casinos
To ensure that players have a safe and enjoyable gambling experience, we use rigorous criteria to rate Ontario online casinos. Our reviews process focuses on the following aspects to determine the quality and reliability of each casino:
– Casino Bonuses: We examine the compliance of casinos with iGaming Ontario’s regulations regarding bonuses, ensuring fair and responsible wagering requirements.
– Security & Safety: We verify that Ontario casinos have SSL encryption to protect players’ personal information and transactions. The presence of an SSL certificate on a casino’s homepage indicates compliance with security standards.
– Variety: We assess the game selection of each Ontario casino, looking for a wide variety of high-quality slots, table games, and frequent new releases to provide ample choices for players.
– Mobile Compatibility: We test Ontario casinos across various devices, ensuring compatibility with Mac, PC, mobile, and web browsers. The best casinos offer seamless gaming experiences across different platforms.
– Banking & Payouts: We consider the availability of multiple banking methods and evaluate payout speeds to ensure timely withdrawals. Excessive withdrawal fees and compliance with iGaming Ontario’s requirements are also considered.
– Reputation: We gather feedback from players and industry experts to gauge the overall reputation of each Ontario casino. Any history of misconduct or poor service is taken into account.
– Entertainment: We review the game collections of Ontario casinos to ensure they offer a diverse range of themes, high-quality graphics, and streaming speeds.
By using these criteria, we aim to recommend only the best licensed Ontario online casinos that provide a safe, fair, and enjoyable gaming environment.
Avoid These Blacklisted Online Casinos
In our pursuit of the best licensed online casinos in Ontario, we have compiled a list of blacklisted casinos to warn players of potential risks. These casinos do not meet the requirements set by iGaming Ontario, the AGCO, or our quality standards. Some signs that indicate a casino should be avoided include:
– License from an obscure offshore jurisdiction
– Player reviews complaining of glitchy games and poor customer support
– Excessive payout delays and unfounded bonus restrictions
To ensure a positive gambling experience, we strongly advise avoiding blacklisted online casinos. Stick to licensed and regulated casinos to avoid potential pitfalls.
Responsible Gambling in Ontario
Responsible gambling is essential for players’ well-being. If you suspect a gambling problem or experience signs of bet regret, isolation, irritability, or hiding your gambling habits, seeking help is crucial. Ontario online casinos are required by the AGCO to provide responsible gambling tools, including breaks from playing and accessible self-exclusion programs.
The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation offers a self-exclusion program that covers OLG.ca, Ontario casinos, bingo halls, and gaming centers. If you need assistance, consider reaching out to the following organizations for support and guidance:
– ConnexOntario: (866) 531-2600
– Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH): (800) 463-2338
– Responsible Gambling Council: (416) 499-9800
These organizations can direct you to local support groups and counselors who specialize in problem gambling.
Unique FAQs After The Conclusion
Are online casinos legal in Ontario?
Yes, online casinos with licenses from the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) can legally operate in the province.
Are online casinos in Ontario safe?
Ontario casinos approved by iGaming Ontario and displaying the regulator’s logo on their website are considered safe and secure gambling sites.
What is the legal gambling age in Ontario?
The legal gambling age in Ontario is 19 years. It is important to comply with this requirement to avoid fines and legal consequences.
Do I have to pay taxes on casino or lottery winnings in Ontario?
If gambling is not your primary source of income, you do not have to pay taxes on winnings from casino games or lotteries in Ontario. Online gambling sites and brick-and-mortar casinos are responsible for paying taxes instead.
Who regulates gaming in Ontario?
The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) is the regulatory body overseeing gaming in Ontario, with iGaming Ontario managing online gaming.
Can I still play at offshore casino sites if I reside in Ontario?
While offshore casinos are not illegal in Ontario, they come with additional risks. It is generally advisable to choose regulated and licensed online casinos for a safer gambling experience.
Does Ontario have a self-exclusion program?
Yes, the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation offers a self-exclusion program covering OLG.ca, Ontario casinos, bingo halls, and lotteries. Players can contact the OLG Support Centre to enroll.
Is sports betting legal in Ontario?
Yes, sports betting is legal in Ontario as long as players are at least 19 years old and meet the necessary address and email requirements. Private sportsbooks and single-game sports betting became available to Ontario bettors starting from April 4, 2022.
Can I play the lottery in Ontario?
Yes, Ontario residents who are at least 18 years old can play the lottery. The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation regulates the province’s lottery games.
Do First Nations own casinos in Ontario?
Yes, three casinos in Ontario are owned by First Nations tribes. These include Casino Rama (joint venture with OLG and Penn National Gaming), Golden Eagle Charitable Casino, and Great Blue Heron Casino.
What are the best online casino games in Ontario?
The best online casino games in Ontario vary based on individual preferences. However, popular choices include online slots, roulette, blackjack, live dealer games, craps, video poker, baccarat, keno, lottery games, and bingo.
What is the best online casino in Ontario?
The best online casino in Ontario may vary depending on personal preferences. However, some of the top choices include LeoVegas, 888.ca Casino, and Royal Panda, among others.
Which Ontario online casino pays the quickest?
Payout speeds can vary depending on the specific casino and chosen banking method. Most Ontario casinos take approximately 2-5 business days to process withdrawal requests.
Has anyone won big at an Ontario online casino?
Yes, there have been significant winners at Ontario online casinos. For example, in January 2022, an Ontario player won a $70 million jackpot with a single ticket on the Lotto Max game.
Do I need to live in Ontario to play on the province’s real money online casinos?
You do not need to reside in Ontario to play real money games on the province’s online casinos. However, you must be physically located within Ontario when accessing the licensed casino sites.
