Canada Online Casinos

Canada Real-Money Online Casinos

The legislation about online gambling in Canada is not as straightforward as you may expect. Each province has the right to make its own decisions regarding the licensing and regulation of online casinos. In this section, we’ll give you an overview of the online casinos that already operate or are preparing to launch in Canada.

BetRivers Casino

BetRivers Casino is one of the first online gambling websites granted an operating license to launch in Canada. The brand received the go-ahead from the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario in early March, fast-tracking BetRiver’s intent to open its first legal online casino in Ontario.

This news follows the recent launch of BetRivers’ free-play Casino4Fun, which was first launched in October 2021. This social media platform, available at BetRivers.net, was the brand’s first step into the Canadian market.

Owned and operated by Rush Street Interactive, BetRivers is one of the leading online casinos south of the border. Offering an exciting collection developed by some of the top providers in the industry, this online casino will surely meet the high standards of Canadian players.

Players will find titles developed by big names such as ICT Games, Konami, Everi, and NetEnt. The online casino offers all the popular games, such as slot machines and table games. It also provides a live dealer casino section that counts with titles developed by Evolution Gaming.

DraftKings Casino

DraftKings Casino has shown interest in expanding its operations to the Ontario online casino market, which is likely to become operational in the upcoming weeks. The company’s CEO, Jason Robins, has already shared that it has firm plans to launch both the casino and sportsbook to Canadian players.

This online gambling platform is very well-established worldwide and known for its enticing promotions and complete games collection. It’s still uncertain whether the brand will receive an operating license to open its doors to the Canadian market. Still, the good news is that it has publicly shared its interest in expanding to the country.

DraftKings Casino offers an impeccable range of online slots, including numerous Megaways and several jackpot options. Likewise, it also shines when it comes to the usability of its mobile app, which is available for both iOS and Android devices.

Although, for the time being, it’s impossible to know when this casino will launch in Canada, we’ll update this section as soon as further details are released.

FanDuel Casino

FanDuel is owned and operated by Flutter Entertainment, previously known as Paddy Power Betfair. This online gambling and betting giant is one of the leading operators and has several years of experience.

Flutter Entertainment first shared its intention of acquiring FanDuel back in May 2018. Since then, it has acquired 95% of the company’s stakes. The casino already holds several operating licenses, and it’s expected to try to receive one from Canada.

Ontario’s Alcohol and Gaming Commission is expected to launch a regulated online gambling market in early April 2022. Numerous online casino brands have already received a license, so we hope it will only be a matter of time before FanDuel joins the list.

FanDuel became internationally known due to its excellent fantasy sports betting platform. Over the past years, it has further developed other gambling verticals, including a very complete online casino.

We’ll update this section as soon as FanDuel Casino receives an operating license for Canada.

Unibet Casino

Founded back in 1997, Unibet is one of the worlds’ leading online gambling brands. It offers online casino, sports betting, bingo, and online poker.

Unibet has over 11 million users worldwide, being present in over one hundred countries. Players in Canada might be happy to hear that this brand was one of the first to receive an operating license by Ontario’s Alcohol and Gaming Commission.

On March 10th, 2022, Unibet was granted a license of Operator - Internet Gaming. This means that it is one of the first brands to be recognized as regulated in the country, along with six other operators.

Unibet is now well underway to launch the online casino or other online gambling platforms in the upcoming weeks, as the Ontario regulated online casino market opened on April 4th, 2022.

Players can expect a high-class online casino from Unibet, which has established itself as one of the market leaders in several locations across the world.

Caesars Online Casino

Caesars Casino is one of the best-known retail brands globally, and it aims to become just as popular in the online gambling world. The brand has already launched its operations in multiple states in the US. However, it’s still uncertain whether it will do the same in Canada.

Unlike other well-respected online casinos, Caesars Casino has yet to announce its plans to expand its operations to the Canadian market. Nevertheless, one thing is certain: if it does, it will quickly become one of the most popular in the market.

Caesars Casino offers some of the most enticing promotions in the industry. At the same time, it also takes the lead when it comes to loyalty programs. The casino’s game collection and mobile app are also top-notch. This confirms the expectations that it will quickly become an industry leader once it joins the Canadian market.

As soon as further news is released about Caesars Casino’s application for an operating license in Canada, we will update this section.

32Red Online Casino

Founded in 2002, 32Red is an online casino that offers hundreds of games, including multiple versions of bingo. In the casino games collection, players can find titles provided by some of the world’s leading developers, including Microgaming, NetEnt, and Big Time Gaming.

32Red is owned and operated by the Kindred Group, the company behind the previously mentioned Unibet. This sheds some positive light on the brand’s possible launch in Canada.

Not much information has been released about 32Red’s intent to open its doors on the Canadian market. Nevertheless, its sister brand, Unibet, receiving an operating license is quite favorable for those awaiting further news about 32Red.

32Red casino has already received operating licenses from international regulating authorities, emphasizing its ability to meet the high standards established by iGaming Ontario.

We will keep our eyes open for further news on this matter and will make sure to update this section as soon as possible.

Betsafe Casino

Betsafe is owned and operated by the Betsson Group, a Swedish company that holds over twenty online gambling brands. It specializes mainly in the European market, but it’s very likely Betsafe Casino might also be joining the Canadian one.

Betsafe offers online casino, sports betting, and live betting. Its collection counts over 1000 games, including slot machines, table games, and video slots.

No news has been released about Betsafe’s application for an operating license for Canada. However, some developments in the company might point in that direction. In August 2021, a subsidiary of Betsson acquired 28% of the shares of Slapshot Media Inc. This is a Canadian start-up specializing in creating marketing and managed services for the online gaming market in Canada.

This swift move allows Betsson and Betsafe to put their foot in the Canadian market ahead of the coming launch of the regulated market.

There is still uncertainty about whether Betsafe will apply for an online gaming license in Canada. Nevertheless, we’ll update this section as soon as further intel is available.

BetMGM Casino

BetMGM is another big name in the North American market, so it will only be a matter of time until the brand announces its interest in expanding to Canada.

Over the past years, BetMGM online casino was launched in several states, so it’s expected that the same will happen once the Ontario regulated market launches in the upcoming weeks.

Owned and operated by MGM Resorts International, BetMGM online casino offers many games and plenty of weekly promotions, which are sure to entice the interest of Canadian players.

One of the main advantages that Canadian players may take advantage of is the iRewards Points, which can be redeemed for different prizes. Likewise, the popularity of BetMGM Casino might also grow in Canada due to its very well-known retail locations.

For the time being, it’s still uncertain when BetMGM online casino will apply for an iGaming Ontario license. From our part, we’ll keep our eyes open and update this section as soon as possible.

theScore casino

theScore casino might be one of the first brands to receive an operating license in Ontario.

theScore has already achieved what many brands are looking for: it has received a license to operate sports betting in the province. This opens the door for further licensing, especially when the brand decides to open its own casino.

The company has first launched its sportsbook in the USA. It will likely continue to develop other online gambling platforms in the upcoming months, so we’ll make sure to pay attention.

In late 2021, Penn National Gaming completed the acquisition of Score Media and Gaming Inc., the company behind theScore. This came after the brand launched in New Jersey, Colorado, Indiana, and Iowa.

With the upcoming opening of the regulated market in Ontario, theScore casino might be a reality shortly. Until then, make sure to check out this section, as we’ll update it as soon as further developments happen.

Bonuses At Real-Money Casinos In Canada

Online casinos want to remain competitive, especially in new markets where there will be a lot of new players registering. These online gambling platforms have to stay competitive, so they try to offer comprehensive collections of games.

Another way to ensure the player’s satisfaction is to offer frequent and exciting promotions and bonuses. These rewards allow players to make the most out of their gaming experience.

Several types of bonuses can be offered by online casinos. For instance, there are welcome bonuses for newly registered players and weekly promotions for those who have already created an account.

This section will explain the differences between the various types of promotions available and dive deeper into what you can do as a player to make the most out of them.

Type Of Casino Bonuses

No Deposit Bonus

One of the best promotions players can claim at an online casino are the no deposit bonuses. As the name suggests, these types of bonuses don’t require players to make any type of deposit into their account to win this reward.

Unlike other commonly offered welcome promotions, the no deposit bonus can be claimed by simply registering an account with the online casino. That’s right! The brand will reward you just by signing up and becoming a player. So, how does this bonus work?

Let’s look at an example: the no deposit bonus at BetMGM Casino. This online casino offers all its new players $25 for free. To claim this promotion, players just have to:

• Visit the online casino’s website
• Click on “Register" on the top right corner of the screen
• Fill in the registration form
• Insert the exclusive TGD Casino promo code

Once these steps are completed, the casino will automatically credit the $25 to your account, which you can use to test the games available.

Like it happens at BetMGM online casino, many other operators also offer no deposit bonuses to their new players. This promotion is one of the most sought-after as it basically gives players free money to play.

Nevertheless, as it happens with all types of promotions, the no deposit bonuses tend to be accompanied by wagering requirements. These are a series of steps that must be followed to convert the bonus into real withdrawable money.

If we consider the no deposit bonus offered by BetMGM, the wagering requirements are as follows:

• The $25 no deposit bonus is available for three days after registering an account
• The $25 can be used to play any online casino game, except for Jackpot Slots
• To withdraw any of the winnings that result from the free $25, players must first make a deposit
• Players will have seven days to meet the wagering requirements
• Players also must wager the total amount of the bonus 1 time
• Players must make a deposit to withdraw any resulting winnings

As you can see, in this case, the no deposit bonus is associated with a deposit match bonus. This is quite common but not always the case. Some online casinos simply offer the no deposit bonus and have playthrough requirements that must be met before withdrawing the resulting winnings.

In these cases, the playthrough requirements can be, for instance:

• Wager the total amount of the no deposit bonus 10 times

Let’s consider a no deposit of $25. To withdraw any resulting winnings, the players must first wager $25 x 10 = $250.

Regardless of the type of bonus or promotion, it’s always recommended that players carefully read the terms and conditions. All of the information about the wagering requirements is clearly stated there. This will allow you to always know what steps to take to make the most out of the bonus.

First Deposit Match Bonus

Another standard welcome bonus is the first deposit match. Even though not all online casinos offer a no deposit bonus, it’s unlikely you’ll find one that doesn’t provide a first deposit match.

So, what does a first deposit match entail? As the name indicates, this promotion matches the players’ first deposit. This means that once you register an account with an online casino and make a first deposit in your cashier, the casino will give you a reward.

Now, the type of match varies from one casino to another. More often than not, the casino will match 100% of the first deposit. In some cases, however, it might offer a smaller percentage. This is particularly true when the casino already offers a no deposit bonus with the first deposit match.

Let’s continue to analyze the BetMGM welcome bonuses as an example:

• 100% match up to $1,000

This means that if a player registers an account with BetMGM online casino and makes a deposit of $500, the casino will match it 100% and credit an additional $500 into their account. In total, the player will now have $1,000 to play with.

On the other hand, if the player deposits $1,500, the deposit match will only be $1,000, as that is the maximum established by the casino. In this case, the player will have $2,500 to play with.

Just like we mentioned before, this promotion also has wagering requirements:

• The minimum deposit accepted to claim this promotion is $10
• Players must meet the wagering requirements within 14 days following the deposit
• The wagering requirement is 15 times the bonus amount
• Different games have different contributions towards the wagering requirements

The contributions of the games towards the wagering requirements are:

• Slots, scratch cards: 100%
• Table games, roulette, live dealer, video poker, baccarat, craps: 20%
• Blackjack: 10%

With this in mind, let’s have a look at how you can clear this bonus:

• You deposit $10, and the casino gives you $10, having a total of $20
• You now have to wager $20 x 15 = $300

Your best option would be to wager the $300 in slot machines or scratch cards, as each wagered $1 will contribute towards the requirements. On the other hand, for each $1 wagered in table games, only $0,20 will count towards the requirements.

As you can see, it’s essential to always pay close attention to the wagering requirements. This information can help you make the most out of the promotion and ensure you can clear the bonus as soon as possible.

Free Spins Bonus

One of the most popular promotions offered by online casinos is the free spins. This bonus gives players a certain number of free plays in slot machines and can be claimed during special events or challenges.

Some online casinos may offer free spins as a welcome bonus, usually pairing this reward with a first deposit match bonus. Nevertheless, the free spins bonus tends to be a regular promotion for players who are already frequent users of the gambling website.

Although no set of rules establishes how and when free spins are offered, some frequent situations include:

• Release of a new slot game
• Challenge or competition organized by the casino
• As an additional reward to another type of bonus

Let’s have a look at each of these examples:

Release of a new game: When an online casino adds a new slot game to its collection, it’s expected that it wants to promote it. One way to do that is by offering players free spins to try out the game. In these cases, the promotion often includes 10, 20, 30, 50, or 100 free spins in one particular game.

Challenge or competition: Online casinos may want to engage their players via a challenge or competition. These tournaments often require players to wager a certain amount of money in one particular slot machine or slot machines developed by a specific provider (e.g., Microgaming). In these cases, the casino may offer free spins for the top winners of the tournament.

As an additional reward: As mentioned above, free spins may be a complementary reward to another type of bonus. For instance, first deposit match bonuses may sometimes be paired with 50 free spins for a specific slot machine.

The free spins bonuses usually don’t have any wagering requirements. Nevertheless, they have a timeframe during which they must be used. If players fail to use all their free spins within the designated period, they will be forfeited.

It’s also very likely that the free spins can only be used in one specific type of slots or slots from one particular provider. As such, make sure to always read the fine print to ensure you make the most out of this bonus.

Risk-Free Wagering Period

One particular type of bonus that isn’t as common as those we described before is the risk-free wagering period. Although sports betting websites tend to offer risk-free bets, not all online casinos hopped on this trend and adapted this type of bonus for this vertical of gambling.

Nevertheless, even though it’s not very common, it’s still important to learn about it so you can always take advantage of it whenever you come across it.

As the name suggests, with this bonus, the online casino offers players a period during which they can wager without suffering any risk. Let’s look at an example to make it easier to understand: FanDuel’s new player offer.

FanDuel online casino offers all new players a risk-free 24h. This means that from the moment you make your first wager on the casino, you’ll have 24h of play that is free of risk. What does this entail exactly?

In this case, the online casino gives its players 100% back on all the net casino losses incurred during this period. The minimum bonus is $5, and the maximum is $1,000.

This type of promotion also has a set of terms and conditions that must be considered:

• Should the player not incur any net losses, they won’t receive any bonus
• The 100% net loss refund will be credited to the player’s accounts within 72h of the end of the risk-free period
• The site credit can only be used on slot machines or table games
• The risk-free credit can’t be withdrawn, but players can immediately withdraw any resulting winnings
• This credit will be available for seven days

As you can see, this promotion doesn’t have any wagering requirements. Once players receive the risk-free credit, they can play any eligible games as many times as they want. There isn’t a need to wager the received bonus a certain number of times before withdrawing the resulting winnings.

This is definitely one of the most exciting promotions in the market. Hopefully, more online casinos will add this type of bonus to their offers.

What Is The Most Popular Online Casino?

While it’s challenging to say which is the most popular online casino in the market, it’s easier to pick one that seems to check all the boxes of what players are looking for.

BetMGM online casino is definitely one that you should keep your eye on. This brand has amounted to great success in the USA market and will most probably expand north of the border very soon.

BetMGM is expected to launch in Canada in the upcoming weeks, given the anticipated opening of the regulated market of Ontario in April 2022. Players will likely have the chance to play both at the online casino and the sports betting platform.

The BetMGM online casino offers a wide range of high-quality games. It also excels in usability, promotions, and safety of banking options. Moreover, the brand is well-respected internationally and has acquired several years of online and retail gambling expertise.

Overall, BetMGM online casino has all the necessary characteristics to quickly become one of Canada’s market leaders and receive great acclaim from Canadian players.

Best Online Casino Payouts In Canada?

Apart from high-quality games and enticing promotions, players also want something else: fast payouts. All online casinos offer a selection of payment methods that are safe and secure. Nevertheless, the processing times might take a few hours or a few days.

Below, we’ll give you an overview of the top 3 casinos when it comes to quick cash out of winnings.

BetMGM Casino

BetMGM online casino offers a wide range of payment methods that can be used for both deposits and withdrawals.

The recommended option currently available is VIP Preferred. Still, players can also use VISA and MasterCard, Discover, Play+ Prepaid Card, PayPal, electronic transfer, and online banking.

Due to being a well-established retail operator, BetMGM also allows players to use the MGM Rewards Mastercard and a BetMGM Gift Card. The casino also accepts deposits and withdrawals via the cashier at any retail location.

From the moment BetMGM launches in Canada, it may also offer some popular payment methods among Canadians. This includes Interac e-Transfer, Skrill, Paysafecard, Neteller, and Instadebit.

We’ll make sure to update this information as soon as BetMGM online casino is live in Canada to ensure that you always have access to the most current intel. Until then, you can learn more about BetMGM on our complete review.

FanDuel Casino

FanDuel has firmed partnerships with multiple financial entities to ensure its players have access to safe, secure, and fast payment methods.

Players can quickly boost their account via online banking, debit or credit cards, Venmo, PayPal, Play+ Prepaid Card, wire transfer, or gift card. The minimum deposit for all options is $10.

At the time of cashing out your winnings, you’ll have to opt for one of the following options:

• PayPal or Venmo (48h)
• Prepaid Card (48h)
• Online banking (3 to 5 business days)
• Check (up to 14 business days)

It’s expected that other payment methods will be added to the list once FanDuel officially launches in Canada. We’ll make sure to update this list once that happens. In the meantime, make sure to read our complete review about FanDuel to learn more about what this casino has to offer.

Unibet Casino

Unibet also offers a good variety of payment methods. The best part is that the withdrawal times are pretty fast.

The minimum and maximum deposit and withdrawal limits vary depending on the banking option selected. To learn more detailed information about this matter, make sure to read our complete Unibet review.

In the meantime, you can find below the payment methods accepted at Unibet:

• Apple Pay
• Credit and debit cards
• Trustly
• Skrill
• Neteller
• Webmoney
• ecoPayz
• Instant Banking
• Interac
• Express Connect

The withdrawals via the payment methods above usually take between 1 to 5 business days, except for Skrill, Neteller, Webmoney, and EcoPayz. In these cases, players will receive their funds within 12 hours from the moment of request.

Why Should I Join A Canadian Online Casino?

This is a very valid question, especially if you’re new to the world of online gambling. The good news is that there are plenty of advantages to registering an account in an online casino.

Firstly, Ontario has recently legalized commercial online casinos. The regulated market is expected to be launched on April 4th. This means that all the soon-to-be-available online casinos in the province will meet the safety and fairness requirements established by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission.

As such, Canadian players will have access to the best online gambling options. These online casinos will receive an operating license which ensures that players are safeguarded and that their personal information is secured.

Moreover, playing at an online casino opens a world of possibilities, especially compared to the traditional retail options. Online casinos offer hundreds, if not thousands, of games developed by some world-renowned providers. Players can take advantage of their favorite slot machines or table games from the comfort of their homes or from any place they choose to play at.

Many online casinos also have their own mobile app, facilitating the gaming experience. These apps were developed with the sole purpose of ensuring players have the best user experience in the palm of their hands.

At the same time, online casinos offer many more promotions and bonuses than their retail counterparts. Players can benefit from juicy welcome promotions, weekly challenges, and plenty of free spins.

Overall, the gaming experience at online casinos is just as good as at an online casino, with the added advantages of being mobile and offering you additional ways to increase your winnings!

How Do I Register At A Canadian Online Casino?

There’s one simple step all players must follow when joining an online casino: registering an account. This process is very straightforward and won’t take longer than a few minutes.

To successfully register an account with an online casino, you just need to:

• Visit the online casino’s website on your computer or mobile device (smartphone or tablet)
• Click on the button to register - usually on the top right corner of the screen and labeled “Join Now" or “Register."
• Fill in your personal details according to the instructions on the screen
• Check any necessary boxes related to the terms and conditions
• Complete the registration process

Some online casinos might send you a confirmation email to verify your account, so make sure to check your inbox to ensure you complete the process!

Online Casino Games Available In Canada

One of the best aspects of playing at online casinos is that you have access to all the gaming possibilities in the same place. In this section, you’ll give an overview of the types of games you can play in the online casinos of Canada.

Slots

Online slots are one of the most popular casino games in the world. Due to their popularity, all online casinos have a vast offering of slot games, often counting thousands of different titles.

Like the slot machines available in retail casinos, online slots are straightforward to play. The main difference is that there is a higher level of gamification. At the same time, online slots can come in many different types, which we’ll explain later on.

These games are pretty straightforward: players bet on the outcome of a spin. The slots have a series of reels with symbols, and when the symbols match up, the player wins.

The best part is that online slots offer more features that make the gaming experience even more exciting. Games can have multiple reels, Wilds and Scatters, and even offer you free spins. The games are completely randomized, operating with an RNG (Random Number Generator). This ensures that they are fair.

How To Play Canada Online Slots

The game is very simple, and the best part is that there are several options to choose from according to your taste. If you’re a beginner, you may want to pick a slot with a low minimum stake. Once you select the game, you just need to:

• Set the stake level
• Select how many spins you want to play
• Spin the game and enjoy!

Depending on the type of game you picked, you may have hundreds of possible pay lines in a single spin. If you hit a winning line, the game will let you know and credit the amount to your account instantly.

Wilds And Scatters - What Are These Features?

Online slot machines offer some additional features to make your gaming experience more enjoyable. The Wilds may appear randomly during the game, and their value varies from one game to another. On the other hand, Scatters usually unlock bonus features, such as free spins or mini side games.

Make sure to read the information guide of the slot machine before playing to always know what you can get from a Wild or a Scatter.

Types of Online Slots

One of the most significant advantages of playing online slots is the sheer variety of options available. There are four main types of slots:

• 5-reel Slots (video slots): These are the most common online slots available. It’s always the best way to start if you’re a beginner.
• Megaways: Increasingly popular, Megaways slots have a random reel modified that alters the number of symbols appearing on each reel in a single spin.
• Progressive Slots: These games have an ever-growing jackpot, which is why they’re also called progressive jackpot slots. Each time a player makes a wager, part of it goes into the total amount. You can see the updated total of the jackpot while playing.

Live Dealer Games

While not all online casinos offer live dealer games, the common trend is that these games will become increasingly popular. This is the perfect technological bridge between online casino gaming and brick-and-mortar casinos.

As the name suggests, live dealer games require a professional dealer. As such, these section of the casino often includes table games such as:

• Roulette
• Blackjack
• Poker
• Baccarat
• Crabs

Over the recent years, more and more games have been added to this section at the online casinos, including some that are not traditionally considered casino games. Some examples include:

• Wheel of Fortune
• Football Studio
• Monopoly

Nevertheless, all of these games have a few things in common. Firstly, they all require a dealer or a host. In this case, the live dealer is in a game room and has a video camera pointed at them and the table or game. The dealer also has a microphone to communicate with the players, who can see the live streaming of the game.

Some modifications were made to the traditional casino games to make them easier to play via live dealer games. For instance, the blackjack cards tend to be bigger than regular cards so that players can easily see them through the screen.

To play these games, players just need to visit the live casino section at the online casino and pick the type of game they want to play. Some casinos offer live dealer games in different languages, so Canadian online casinos may offer them in English and French.

Once the player joins a table, they can play the game as they would in a real-life casino. The only difference is that the communication with the live dealer has to be made via chat. The dealer can see the players’ messages and will answer any questions you may have.

This type of game is the ideal option for players who enjoy the social element of casinos, which can often be lost when playing online slots or video poker. Moreover, players can feel like they’re at a land-based casino while sitting comfortably on their sofa or when they’re out and about.

The technology used for these games is also very fast, which means that players will always have a good gaming experience. One of the most renowned providers of live dealer games is Evolution Gaming, known as one of the best in the industry worldwide.

Canada Casino Table Games

Table games comprise the second most popular option for players at online casinos. This category of games often includes blackjack, poker, roulette, baccarat, craps, and sic bo.

We’ll explain some of these games separately, as there are quite a few different versions that you can choose from, so make sure to check those sections if you’d like to learn more about them.

Baccarat

Baccarat is a card game where players hold 2-3 card hands. The game’s goal is to accumulate a hand with a total of 9 points, or at least as closely as possible to 9.

The cards are dealt with both the player and the dealer’s hands. If the player has the best hand or bets on the right option, they win. As stated above, the best hand is the one that is closest to 9, with the card’s values being:

• Aces - 1
• Face cards and 10 - 0
• 2 through 9 - face value

Since the maximum baccarat hand is 9, only the right-hand digit is considered if the total goes over. For instance, let’s say you have a 5 and an 8, totaling 13. In this case, it counts only as 3. The same rule applies if the total points are over 20.

Craps

Craps is a fast-paced casino game with a simple goal: players have to bet on the numbers they think the pair of dice will roll.

The betting round in this game starts with a come-out roll. This is the first roll of the dice at the beginning of the game, and there are three possible results:

• Natural - The roll resulted in a 7 or an 11. In this case, you can roll the dice again.
• Craps - The dice rolled a 2, 3, or 12. If this happens, you lose.
• Point - The roll lands a 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10. You have to roll the dice again and hope it hits the same number as before. You lose if you roll a 7, and the betting round ends.

Craps allow players to make multiple bets based on the numbers they think will land once the dice are rolled.

Sic Bo

Sic Bo is an ancient Chinese game played with three dice. Every roll of the dice in Sic Bo results in either a win or a loss. In Craps, some bets require the dice to roll specific numbers to result in a win or a loss.

Players start the game by selecting their bets on the table. After that, the three dice roll and dictate the results of the stakes.

Blackjack

Blackjack is one of the most popular table games globally, and the same happens in online casinos. The game’s goal is straightforward: the player tries to beat the dealer by getting a hand as close to 21 as possible without going over.

The game begins with the dealer giving the players two cards, one face-up and one facing down. The player can check their own face-down card but can’t see the other player’s. The cards also have different values:

• Face Cards - 10
• 2 through 9 - Face value
• Ace - 1 or 11, depending on the value of the other cards

After calculating the value of your hand, it’s time to decide whether to Hit or Stand:

• Hit - You ask the dealer for another card. Make sure you know the next card won’t make you go bust (over 21).
• Stand - Ask the dealer to move on to the next player. You should do this when the value of your hand is relatively high (e.g., over 17).

The next step in the game is for the dealer to reveal their cards. If your hand is closer to 21 than that of the dealer, you bust the dealer and win. If the dealer has 21 or closer to 21 than any other player, the dealer wins.

There are some basic rules that all players should know when playing blackjack online:

• Regular wins pay 1:1 - If your cards are closer to 21 than the cards of the dealer
• Blackjack wins pay 3:2 - In case your cards hit 21
• 16 and below - The dealer has to hit on any hand with a value of 16 or under
• Hit or Stand - Players can pick to keep adding cards to their hand (hit) or not (stand)
• Split - The player splits their hand into two, which is possible when you have two cards of the same value in your hard
• Double Down - Players can double their bet mid-hand but will only receive one card

More advanced players may also want to consider the following rules:

• Insurance - The players can take insurance when a dealer shows an Ace as their face-up card. This protects the players in case the dealer has a 10 value card.
• Surrendering - Some online casinos allow players to surrender half of their bet if they’re not happy with their hand
• Soft 17 - When a hand has an Ace, it’s called a soft hand. This happens because the Ace might be worth 1 or 10 points. Some games require the dealer to hit on a Soft 17. It’s essential to read the game’s rules to ensure you know how to play.

Roulette

Online casinos usually offer two roulette versions: European Roulette and American Roulette. Regardless of the option you want to play, the game always starts the same way:
Players have to pick one or more bets to make.

The bets are picked by clicking on the part of the board that players want to bet on. Once you’ve made all your bets, it’s time to spin the wheel.

Once the ball stops spinning and lands on a number, you’ll know whether you won or lost your bet. This game is as straightforward as they come!

The Roulette Wheel

Depending on the type of roulette (American or French), the wheel will have either 37 or 38 numbers. This will be explained later on, as it varies according to the number of zeros.

The numbers on the roulette wheel are listed at random, alternating colors between red and black. The only exception is the zero, which tends to be colored green.

The wheel spins in one direction while the ball is spinning opposite. Although this doesn’t really matter on the online version of the game, it’s still a nice fact to know!

• European Roulette: This is the most commonly available type of roulette in online casinos. It only has a single zero, making it easier for the players to win as it decreases the house edge.
• American Roulette: It’s very similar to the French one, with the main difference being that it has a double-zero. This minor difference diminishes the player’s odds of winning and increases the house edge.

Types of Bets

Players can make a wide range of bets when playing roulette, each offering different odds. Albeit plenty, the stakes tend to be distinguished between inside and outside wagers:

• Inside bets: These bets are placed on the numbered section of the table, which is closer to the center. Although the odds of winning these bets are pretty small, the payouts are very high.
• Outside bets: Placed on the outside of the board, these bets offer better odds but smaller payouts.

Within these two categories, several types of bets can be placed. For instance, a straight-up bet is placed on one single number on the board, while a split is set on two numbers sitting next to one another.

Video Poker

Video poker is the beautiful hybrid between regular poker and video slots. This type of game has fixed offs and is based on a five-card draw.

Nevertheless, video poker doesn’t solely rely on chance, unlike slot machines. In fact, players need to have some skill and knowledge of poker rules to make the most out of this game. Players must play the hand they’re dealt with to the best of their ability, including knowing the poker hands’ rankings.

There are several video poker variants, but all of them are based on the 5-card poker.

How To Play Video Poker

The first step in video poker is to receive the first five cards. From that moment, players can choose which cards they want to keep and discard those they don’t want. They will then be dealt new cards in return, making up the final hand. The winnings are calculated immediately and credited to the player’s account.

One vital aspect of video poker is the paytable. Players must consult this table before making any stakes, as the payouts for different hands may vary widely from one game to another.

Video poker games tend to be classified into full pay and short pay. These classifications are related to the game’s RTP (return to player). The full pay machines often pay out more than 99%.

Different Types Of Video Poker

As mentioned above, there are different versions of video poker games. Below, we’ll give you some details of the four most popular variants:

• Jacks or Better: This is one of the most common video poker games. In this case, a pair of jacks or better is the minimum winning hand.
• Deuces Wild: In this case, the twos are wild. They can be substituted for any other card, which might help you have a better hand.
• Bonus Poker: Similar to Jacks or Better, the bonus is offered to players with four cards of a kind.
• Double Bonus: Like the Bonus Poker, this type of video poke gives players a bonus. In this version, it is offered for four aces.

As you can see, although there are quite a few variants of video poker, they all follow the same rules as traditional poker. The main difference is related to the automatism that the virtual game offers.

If you’d prefer a more realistic poker option, you may want to learn more about online poker, which we’ll explain below.

Online Poker

Online poker is the internet version of regular poker. It operates precisely in the same manner. The only difference is that you play against players on the other side of the screen.

The game rules are the same, but there are some stark differences. For instance, online poker tends to have a much faster pace than regular poker. At the same time, it offers a more negligible risk, as players can place lower stakes. The fact that it’s played entirely online also makes it more convenient, as you can play anywhere at any time.

Most online casinos offer different versions of online poker. Texas Hold’em tends to be present in almost all online casinos, and certain brands also offer:

• Pot-Limit Omaha
• Omaha Hi-Lo
• 7 Card Stud
• 5 Card Draw
• Short Deck Hold’em
• Razz
• Chinese Poker

For each of these versions, players must know the basic rules of poker and the differences between each other. If you’re a beginner, the best course of action would be to memorize the ranking of the hands and start getting some experience in low-stake Texas Hold’em games.

Once you get more experienced, you may be interested in participating in an online poker tournament. These competitions are very popular among the poker community.

Players have to buy their entry to the tournament and receive a stack of chips. If you run out of chips during the competition, you’re removed from the tournament. The last player standing is the winner and receives all the chips.

Should you still not feel ready to venture into an online poker tournament, you may be interested in learning about some topics or tips for beginners:

• Poker Hand Rankings: The first step into playing online poker is to learn the rankings of the hands. You can also have a cheat sheet with the rankings next to you while you play.
• Poker Odds Calculator: Some online tools allow players to calculate the odds of winning. Although poker isn’t purely a game of chance, some calculations can still be made to know which are your chances of winning based on your hands.
• Free Online Poker Games: Some online casinos allow players to try out their games for free. This means that you can experiment with different variants of online poker games without risking your own money.

Bingo

If you already know how to play traditional bingo, then online bingo will be pretty easy to understand. The process is very similar to what you would follow if you were to play in real life, except it’s processed online.

The first step is to select the Bingo game. Although some online casinos already offer this type of game, it’s still not as widespread as other casino games such as slots. As such, if you’re interested in playing bingo on a gambling website, make sure to browse the games’ collection to ensure you register at one that offers this option.

Once you pick the bingo game you want to play, you’ll automatically receive a Bingo card, also known as a ticket. Should you not be happy with the card you received, you’ll have the chance to get new cards with other numbers.

Online Bingo games also allow for some customization. For instance, you can select the colors of the cards and pick whether you “stamp" the number yourself or if it’s done automatically.

Every step of the game can be seen on the ticket. Usually, these tickets all cost the same amount. They have numbers between 1 to 90, depending on the version of the game you select.

Online Bingo Versions

Although the 80-ball Bingo is the most commonly available online version, other types of bingo can sometimes be found in online casinos:

• 90-ball Bingo: This game version has 9 columns and 3 rows, with the numbers ranging between 1 and 90.
• 80-ball Bingo: The most popular Bingo game available in online casinos, this version shows a 4×4 grid and numbers ranging between 1 and 80.
• 75-ball Bingo: With numbers ranging between 1 and 75, this version of bingo is widely played in Canada and the United States.
• 30-ball Bingo: This small 3×3 bingo card is also commonly called “Speed Bingo." It’s a high-speed game and allows players to quickly rotate tickets.

As you can see, the online version of bingo is as similar as it could be to the traditional game. Some online casinos also allow players to interact via chat. Sadly, this feature still isn’t mainstream, but hopefully, it will be in the future.

Keno

If you’re a fan of bingo, you may be interested in learning more about online Keno. This game is similar to lotteries and bingo since the numbers are randomly selected, but there are still some exciting differences.

Keno is usually played with a total of 80 numbers. Of those, 20 will be selected as the winners randomly. Unlike bingo, where you’re given the numbers ahead of time, in Keno, the players have to pick their own set of 20 numbers. Players can choose anything between 2 and 10 numbers. The number selection process is completed before the round starts.

The winning numbers are then called out or displayed in the online version, and the players who hit the correct numbers are the winners. Those lucky to hit 10 numbers can win the impressive amount of 200,000x their stake.

Now that you know how Keno works, you may be interested in learning more about the different variants available:

• Classic Keno: This version is usually the most popular and often available at online casinos. Players pick between 2 and 10 numbers from the card in this game variant.
• Themed Keno: The game itself is the same. However, the visuals make the experience more enjoyable. For instance, there is a Monkey Keno.
• Multi-Card Keno: In this game version, players can have up to twenty online Keno tickets per round. In this case, all the Keno cards share the same bet and have the same selected numbers,
• Progressive Jackpot Keno: Just like it happens with progressive slots, the progressive jackpot Keno accumulates a share of each wager to the grand total.
• Live Dealer Keno: This is the variant of the game that is the most similar to the physical game. In this case, a professional dealer calls out the numbers via a live-streamed video.
• Multiplier Keno: Players can add a bonus multiplier, increasing their chances of bigger payouts. In this game, the multiplier is selected randomly before the draw starts. The multiplier may vary between 1.5x to 10x.

As you can see, Keno is very similar to bingo but offers some extra doses of excitement.

Online Casino Payment Options

The online casino market in Canada will soon be launched since the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario regulated the industry. Being a regulated market, all the online casinos that live in the country will have to meet the safety standards established by the regulatory authority.

With this in mind, players can rest assured that all the banking options will be secure and protected at all times. The online casinos also partnered with reputable financial institutions to allow their players to quickly and safely process deposits and withdrawals through different channels.

This section will give an overview of the payment methods available.

Online Casino Deposit Options

The first interaction players have with the cashier section on their online casino cashier is processing a deposit. After all, it’s not easy to place bets without any funds.

These online casinos offer top-notch payment options for those who wish to fund their account simply and easily, without any security troubles.

The banking options available at online casinos allow players to process their payments almost instantly, given that the verification documentation has already been processed. Players will have to prove their identity when adding some payment methods to their accounts for security matters.

This ensures no fraud occurs and that your banking information is safeguarded.

• Credit/Debit Card (Visa, AMEX, Mastercard, Discover): One of the quickest ways to process deposits is via credit or debit cards. Online casinos accept a wide range of cards from different banks. Usually, deposits via cards take just a few minutes to be processed, and you’ll automatically see the credit in your account.
• InstaDebit: If you prefer not to share your banking details with the online casino, you can use InstaDebit. This bank transfer method allows you to instantly deposit your money into your account with all the necessary safety. This is one of the fastest payment methods available in online casinos. Just make sure to have enough funds in your InstaDebit account.
• iDebit: Another excellent option for players who like fast transactions is iDebit. Unlike InstaDebit, you don’t need to worry about whether or not you have funds in your account. All you have to do is set up your iDebit account before using it at the cashier section.
• Apple Pay: This is an excellent option for deposits. However, it doesn’t work for withdrawals. Players that make their deposits with Apple Pay will likely have to withdraw via wire transfer or credit card. Nevertheless, it works wonders for deposits, and the transactions are processed very quickly.
• Paysafecard: The Paysafecard is yet another extraordinarily safe and fast deposit method. Players just have to get a prepaid Paysafecard, transfer some money to ensure it has enough funds, and then use it as they would a credit card. This option is also great for players who don’t have InstaDebit or iDebit accounts.
• ecoPayz: This payment method allows players to deposit and withdraw from their online casino account. It’s a free payment method that is very safe and fast. The deposits are processed immediately, and the funds will be swiftly available on your account’s credit balance.
• PayPal: This option is another very well-established and reputable payment method. To use PayPal to deposit into your online casino account, you just need to associate a credit card to your PayPal account. The deposits are processed instantly, and you’ll immediately see the funds in your account.
• Wire Transfer: Making deposits via wire transfer is effortless and safe. However, the process takes a bit longer than the other options. While most of the deposit methods covered above are instant, the funds deposited via wire transfer may take up to 24 hours to be available on your account.

Online Casino Withdrawal Options

The security and protection provided by the deposit methods are also mimicked when withdrawals are concerned. Online casinos allow their players to process withdrawals through several payment methods. Still, it’s essential to take some aspects into consideration.

Firstly, not all deposit methods are available for withdrawals. One example is Apple Pay, which only works for deposits. Likewise, the processing times for withdrawals are slightly longer than deposits. Depending on the payment method selected, the withdrawal may take anything between a few minutes and 5 business days to be processed.

The good news is that all the withdrawals are processed safely, ensuring that your funds will always reach your bank account.

• Credit/Debit Card (Visa, AMEX, Mastercard, Discover)
• InstaDebit
• iDebit
• Apple Pay
• Paysafecard
• ecoPayz
• PayPal
• Wire Transfer

Canadian Online Casino Apps

The modernity of online casinos can be seen in multiple features:

• The sleekness of the layout
• The speedy loading of the games
• The excellent usability

But the advantages of online casinos don’t stop there.

Many online casino brands have developed their own exclusive mobile apps. These play a significant role in facilitating your gaming experience.

On the one hand, players don’t really need to download the mobile app. The websites are usually responsive and adapt to small screens. On the other hand, mobile apps are built specifically to improve the gaming experience in small devices.

Moreover, these mobile apps are often available for different operating systems, such as Android and iOS. This means that you can have access to all the features, games, and promotions available on the computer version of the casino in the palm of your hand.

The mobile app also matches all the advantages listed at the beginning of this section, thus ensuring that you can make the most out of the casino wherever you are.

Can I Play Casino Games With iPhone Or iOS Devices?

Definitely! Almost all online casinos have developed a specific mobile app for iOS devices, which means it will work smoothly on iPhones and iPads. Even the casinos that didn’t launch a mobile app can be used via a browser of your choice, as the website is responsive.

The games available on the app and the website version of the casino are precisely the same, and so are the promotions.

How To Download Casino Apps On iPhone

Downloading and installing the online casino mobile app for iOS devices is very simple and quick. You just need to follow a few steps before making the most out of the casino from your iPhone or iPad. To successfully use the online casino mobile app, you’ll just have to:

• Open the Apple App Store on your mobile device (iPhone or iPad)
• Write the name of the casino in the search bar
• Open the first option available, ensuring it’s the official app
• Click the button to download the app
• Follow the instructions on the screen to install it

Can I Play Casino Games With My Android Phone Or Tablet?

Players who use Android devices can also easily use the online casino mobile app to enjoy the games wherever they are. The mobile app offers all the games available on the website version. It includes all the unique features that make the casino worthwhile. Moreover, the online casino even offers exclusive promotions for mobile app users in some instances.

How To Download Casino Apps On Android

Downloading and installing the mobile app on Android devices is slightly different from the aforementioned iOS option. This happens because the Google Play Store doesn’t always display gambling apps. Nevertheless, there’s no need to worry! The online casinos have Android users in mind. They have created a slightly different process to make their experience just as enjoyable.

To download the mobile app for Android smartphones or tablets, you just have to follow these steps:

• Visit the online casino website on your smartphone or tablet
• Scroll down to the bottom of the homepage until you see the button for download - this button should read “Available for Android" or “Download for Android"
• Click the button to download the .apk file
• You’ll have to change the settings on your device to allow for the installation from unknown sources
• Make sure to click “allow" when this request appears on your screen
• Wait for the installation to be complete, and enjoy!

Responsible Gaming And Self-Exclusion In Canada

Gambling is supposed to be fun entertainment and an enjoyable experience. However, just like other aspects of life, gambling can become addictive and a problem in players’ lives.

Compulsive gaming is a reality that affects the personal, social, and professional lives of those who unfortunately can’t control their gaming habits. If you or someone you know has risky gambling behaviors, please seek help.

The government of Canada and the online casino operators have several protocols in place to help manage your addiction. You can set up different types of limits in your account to limit your spending, deposits, and playtime. You can also self-exclude from online casinos temporarily or indefinitely.

You can also reach out to different organizations that specialize in helping people with gambling addictions:

• Gamblers Anonymous
• Responsible Gambling Council
• Canadian Partnership for Responsible Gambling
• Online Casinos Vs. Land-Based Casinos In Canada

Although retail casinos and online casinos have plenty of features in common, these two types of gaming platforms offer very different experiences.

Retail casinos offer a more social experience. Players can easily mingle and chat with other players over a table game or in the different attractions available throughout the casino.

At the same time, this social interaction can be somewhat replaced when live dealer games are considered. These games allow players to interact with the dealer and even communicate with other players in some instances.

Nevertheless, online casinos do take the lead when it comes to what really matters. Online casino games tend to have higher returns (RTPs), offer a more engaging gaming experience, and are faster. These thrill-filled games are also portable, offering a much greater level of convenience.

Moreover, online casinos offer more modern games from world-renowned providers. At the same time, players of online casinos can benefit from a broader range of enticing promotions and bonuses that aren’t all that common in land-based casinos.

When it comes to payment methods, online casinos also take the lead. These provide players with a varied list of banking options to choose from that are not only safe but fast.

Overall, the list of advantages of using online casinos just keeps growing. Although land-based casinos offer a unique experience, the pros of playing on the online version overpower it.

Why Avoid Offshore Online Casinos?

As a Canadian player waiting for the launch of the online casino market, you may be wondering: why can’t I play in offshore casinos? After all, these are all live and running already.

There are several reasons why it’s a bad idea to go for offshore casinos. Firstly, these are not legalized in the Canadian market, and you may be breaking the law while playing in them.

The regulation of the online gambling market in Canada has as one of its goals protecting the Canadian players. Ontario’s Alcohol and Gaming Commission has established a series of criteria to ensure the online casinos receiving a license in the country are safe, fair, and trustworthy. At the same time, it aims to ensure that these operators meet all the necessary requirements to protect their players.

The same can’t be said about offshore online casinos. Although some might have received an operating license from other regulatory entities, these regulators don’t understand the Canadian reality. They might not have the same high-quality standards.

Moreover, the banking options might not be as safe as you want them to be. This is particularly true for online casinos that are not licensed anywhere. It’s not recommended that you create an account with an offshore casino, as you may suffer from fraud or personal data theft.

The best course of action is to wait for the online casinos to launch in the country, which is going to happen in the upcoming weeks. This way, you can ensure your money and personal information are safe and make the most out of the gaming experience.

Canada Gambling Law By Province

The online gambling regulations in Canada vary from one province to another, just like it happens in the United States, where the legislation is different depending on the state.

Due to the country’s size, lawmakers in Canada have decided to have an individual provincial approach to online gaming regulations. Although the legislation is quite similar from one region to another in some aspects, it varies widely in some others.

Below, we’ll explain how each province treats online and retail gambling for casinos, lotteries, and sports betting.

This information will be updated whenever changes occur in the legislation to ensure you always have access to the most recent details.

Ontario

In Ontario, the entity responsible for gaming is the Alcohol and Gaming Commission (AGCO) and its recently established subsidiary, iGaming Ontario. To be legally allowed to play, people in Ontario must be at least 19 years old.

Over the past months, AGCO has been preparing to launch the newly regulated online gambling market in the province. The applications for licenses from private operators were opened in September 2021 in preparation for the official launch of the online casino market in April 2022.

So far, thirteen operations have already received the go-ahead by AGCO, including:

• LottoGo
• Coolbet
• FanDuel
• Fitzdares
• LeoVegas
• WSOP
• PointsBet
• Rivalry
• Royal Panda
• BetRivers
• theScore bet
• Unibet
• 888

But it’s expected that this list will continue to expand. Ontario’s newly regulated market is one of the main drivers for the growth of many internationally recognized brands. In particular, online casinos that operate in the US market have seen the launch of this market as an excellent opportunity to engage with players north of the border.

AGCO’s experience in managing and regulating gambling is long-lasted, as the commission is in charge of several other gambling verticals.

For instance, it also regulates OLG, Ontario’s government agency responsible for managing gaming facilities such as lottery games, slots, casinos, horse racing, sports betting, and charitable gaming.

OLG offered the first regulated online casino in the province. At least, until the recent changes that opened the doors for private operators. OLG has also recently launched Proline+, an online sports betting platform for single event betting.

Regarding brick-and-mortar casinos, Ontario also offers a good range of options that operate legally. There are over 20 land-based casinos currently operating in Ontario, including:

• Casino Ajax
• Casino Woodbine
• Casino Rama
• Elements Casino - Mohawk
• Gateway Casinos - Innisfil
• Casino Niagara
• Rideau Carleton CasinoKawartha Downs
• Caesars Windsor

AGCO is also in charge of regulating and managing racetracks and horse-racing events. There are currently fifteen operating race tracks that can be found in central areas of the province and in the east and south-west.

The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario has been working on revamping the province’s gaming offerings in the past years. From the results we can see so far, it seems like it has succeeded.

Hopefully, other provinces will follow this trend to expand the reach of private online casinos and sports betting operators across the country. Until then, we can just keep an eye on the ever-growing list of licensed casinos that will soon open their doors to the Canadian market.

Quebec

Québec’s gambling industry is regulated by Loto-Québec, the province’s regulatory authority overseeing the long list of legal gambling options available. Firstly, it’s important to note that in this province, the legal gambling age is 18. On average, Canada’s minimum age to gamble varies between 18 and 19.

The province’s longest-lasting gaming vertical is lottery, which has been available since 1970. Over time, it became one of the region’s most successful gambling options, currently making draws daily. Since then, other land-based and online gaming options have been developed, as we’ll explain below.

When it comes to online casinos, the only available platform is Espace Jeux. It is operated by Loto-Québec and provides players with multiple gaming options such as casino games, poker, and sports betting, among others.

The online platform is available in both English and French and offers:

• Live Dealer Games: blackjack, roulette, baccarat, poker, craps
• Slot machines: offers thousands of gaming options, including Megaways, video poker, Mega Drop, and classic slots
• Table games: roulette, blackjack, and poker
• Virtual sports: horse racing, dog racing, cars racing, motorsports, soccer, and cycling

Keno

Sports betting is also available at Loto-Québec’s Mise-o-Jeu platform. The sports betting platform accepts wagers for two or more games and covers Canadian and international events. It counts with a comprehensive list of sports, including all the Canadians’ favorites, such as ice hockey and football.

When offline gaming is concerned, charitable gaming is prevalent in Québec. There are plenty of Bingo halls in different locations. Along with this game, the regulatory authority also runs fundraising games, selling raffles whose profits are given to nonprofit organizations.

The province is home to some of the most reputable land-based casinos in the country, including Casino Montreal and Casino du Lac-Leamy. There is also the option to visit the horse racing track and bet on the sport. The Hippodrome 3R racetrack offers both harness and standardbred racing.

Along with Loto-Québec, the Kahnawake Gaming Commission, operated by the Mohawks of Kahnawake First Nation, can issue gambling licenses. This allows for an increased number of online gambling websites, including casinos, sports betting, and poker.

For the time being, there still isn’t much information about whether Québec’s regulatory authority might be open to broadening its operations to private companies.

The step made by Ontario might spark some changes in the future, which would definitely boost the entertainment options in the province. We’ll keep updated about these matters and update this section as soon as more news is released.

Nova Scotia

In 1995, the Nova Scotia Alcohol and Gaming Commission was established. Similar to what happens in Ontario, this is the regulatory entity in charge of overseeing any type of gambling vertical available in the province.

There is also a second governmental organization in charge of regulating and operating two land-based casinos - the Nova Scotia Gaming Corporation.

The legal age to participate in any type of gambling activity in this province is 19 years old, following the trend of other Canadian regions. People of legal gambling age can partake in any of the legal options below:

• Casino
• Poker
• Sports Betting
• Horse Racing
• Bingo
• Lottery
• Online Gambling

Those who enjoy online casino gaming can place their stakes at the Atlantic Lottery Corporation portal. This platform offers a wide range of casino games, bingo, instant games and accepts bets on the popular Proline online sports betting.

The website is divided into several categories, the most complete being the online casino. It offers a long list of slot machines, including five options with jackpots. There is also a smaller section with table games, such as poker, roulette, blackjack, and baccarat. Separately, players can also play one of the five virtual poker options.

This platform also offers two online bingo rooms, one with a 75-ball bingo and another with a turbo 30-ball bingo. Online lottery is also available, with multiple options to choose from. These are the exact lottery tickets that can be purchased in retail locations across the province.

Until recently, betting on sports could only be done in two or more events. It wasn’t until the launch of Proline+ that single-game wagering became a possibility in Nova Scotia and other provinces alike. Although this expanded the sports betting options slightly, the number of sports available still remains relatively small compared to international operators.

At the same time, bets on horse racing events are legal but can only be placed in one race track. Players can attend the races throughout the summer and place their bets through simulcast.

One of the most well-developed gaming verticals in Nova Scotia is the lottery. There are several retail locations where lottery tickets can be purchased. However, as mentioned before, these can also be bought online via the lottery website.

When it comes to land-based casinos, Nova Scotia has two commercial options. The casinos are located in Sydney and Halifax. They offer an exciting range of slot machines, bingo games, and poker rooms.

Finally, it’s important to note that the aforementioned online gaming platform is shared between provinces. The Atlantic Lottery Corporation online gaming platform is available to residents in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador.

New Brunswick

In New Brunswick, the legal gambling age is 19 years old. Players can place their bets at the gambling operations regulated by the Atlantic Lottery Corporation. The Corporation regulates and manages all the gambling activities happening in the Atlantic provinces, including Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland and Labrador.

The gaming activities available in New Brunswick can be divided into the following categories:

• Online gaming
• Sports Betting
• Casinos
• Poker rooms
• Lottery
• Horse Racing
• Bingo
• Charitable gambling activities

The Atlantic Lottery Corporation’s online platform offers several lottery options, online casino, iBingo, instant games, and sports betting.

The online casino section is complete and has a long list of slot machines, including five jackpot slots. Other online casino games include roulette, baccarat, blackjack, and poker. Unlike the slots section, the list of table games available only comprises 18 titles. Nevertheless, poker fans can also try their luck at one of the five video poker options.

Bingo fans can also join one of the two online bingo rooms, which offer 75-ball bingo and 30-ball bingo.

Those who prefer to bet on sports have the chance to use Proline. This platform now also offers single bets, which wasn’t possible until a few months ago. Players can wager on games, props, futures, and novelty bets.

Now that you know what New Brunswick’s online gambling options are like, let’s look at what players in this province can play in physical locations.

There are six brick-and-mortar casinos in the province, scattered throughout five cities. The Casino New Brunswick is the biggest one, which provides players with hundreds of slot machines, dozens of table games, and one poker room.

Other poker rooms can also be found at the Grey Rock Casino and St. Mary’s Entertainment Centre. Often, charity poker tournaments will also be organized as part of the province’s charitable gaming activities. These fundraising events also count with raffles and bingo.

Along with the casinos regulated by the Atlantic Lottery Corporation, the First Nation owns and operates some casinos in the region. These offer similar games such as slot machines, table card games, and bingo halls.

The final option for land-based betting is horse racing. There are three horse racing tracks in the province which offer harness racing. Players can either bet live or through simulcast. The region also has off-track betting locations, often called teletheatres, where players can place their bets on horse racing events.

It’s possible to see that the legislation on gambling in New Brunswick is quite on par with what is regulated in other provinces. Hopefully, the province’s regulatory authority will soon branch out its offering to resemble that of Ontario.

Manitoba

The regulatory entity in Manitoba is the Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries Corporation (MLLC). To legally play at any type of gambling location, players must be at least 19 years old, as it happens in most Canadian provinces.

The MLLC is a constituent part of the provincial government and is in charge of the licensing and overseeing of:

• Online Casinos
• Online Sports Betting
• Tribal Casinos
• Land-based Casinos
• Lotteries

Manitoba still has fewer options than other provinces when online gambling is concerned. For instance, online sports betting and casinos are only available via PlayNow.

This platform was developed by the British Columbia Lottery Corporation. It granted access to Manitoba’s residents in 2013 once the two provinces formed a partnership.

Through PlayNow, Manitoba’s residents can play:

• Slots
• Blackjack
• Baccarat
• Roulette
• Sic bo
• Video poker
• Scratch cards

Although the platform is not exclusive to Manitoba’s residents, the good news is that players can benefit from hundreds of games. PlayNow offers a very impressive collection of slot games, multiple table games, and even some live dealer games.

The online platform also allows players to bet on sport, offering several markets and covering multiple national and international competitions. Likewise, PlayNow also offers a good range of lotteries and three bingo games.

Although Manitoba residents can take advantage of British Columbia’s PlayNow, the legislation for retail casinos has been stalled due to a change in the regulations in 2018.

Since then, it has been impossible to build new casinos. For the time being, the MLLC is only responsible for operating two commercial operations in Winnipeg.

The bigger casinos offer poker rooms, but the largest one only has 16 tables. Even though this might seem relatively small, it’s important to remember that Manitoba’s total population is only 1.3 million.

Along with these two provincially operated casinos, the First Nations also owns and manages six land-based casinos:

• Aseneskak Casino
• Niichi Gaming & Leisure Centre
• South Beach Casino & Resort
• Sand Hills Casino
• Swan Lake First Nation Gaming Centre #7
• Swan Lake First Nation Gaming Centre #8a

Winnipeg also hosts the Assiniboia Downs race track. This is the only available horse racing location in the province, and the bets can be placed via simulcast.

Another popular offline gaming option for residents in Manitoba is the lottery. The draws are pooled together with other neighboring regions, which make part of the Western Canada Lottery Association.

As you can see above, the legislation in Manitoba is very similar to that of other provinces. Although the offer is considerably smaller in certain types of games, the good news is that PlayNow is available for all of the province’s residents.

Hopefully, further changes in the legislation will come in the near future allowing for more retail and online casinos to be launched in the province. Once that happens, we’ll update this section.

British Columbia

Similar to what happens in most Canadian provinces, residents of British Columbia must be at least 19 years old to legally gamble in online and retail locations.

The gambling operations in British Columbia are regulated and supervised by the British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC). In this province, it’s legal to bet on a wide range of gaming activities, both online and offline.

BCLC developed an online gambling platform used in the province and in other locations within the country - PlayNow.

This website offers a wide range of games, including lottery, casino, sports, poker, and bingo. Compared to similar online gambling platforms in the country, it’s possible to say that PlayNow offers one of the most complete games collections.

PlayNow counts with numerous slot machines, being quite on par with some of the world’s biggest online gaming platforms. Likewise, the table games section offers poker, blackjack, baccarat, roulette, and even some live dealer games, including Dream Wheeler.

Slots lovers can also benefit from an entire section filled with free spins slots, allowing players to find new enticing games without the risk. The online gaming platform contains over 35 jackpot slots, with several offering over $1,000,000 potential winnings.

PlayNow covers an exciting range of sports, including all the most popular Canadian and international competitions. The sports betting section also allows players to bet on live events, novelty, and special contests.

The Bingo vertical offers three rooms where players can join and participate in competitions to win very hefty prizes. Likewise, those who prefer the lottery can also buy tickets for the multiple lottery games available, including Lotto Max, Lotto 6/49, BC/49, Daily Grand, and Keno.

Outside of online gambling, residents in British Columbia can also take advantage of 36 land-based casinos. These retail locations offer slot machines, video poker, video lottery, and table games. Among the most popular types of games are roulette, baccarat, craps, poker, and blackjack.

Lottery retail is also trendy in British Columbia, and the province contains more than 3,500 retailers. The retail lotteries available are the same as those sold on the PlayNow platform.

There are five horse race tracks in the province, with many land-based casinos also accepting off-tracking bets on this sport.

Overall, it’s possible to see that the gaming industry in British Columbia is very well developed. The online gaming scene is particularly impressive, especially compared to other provinces.

Over time, British Columbia might broaden its licensing rules to join Ontario to expand the private operations of gaming activities.

Prince Edward Island

The legal gambling age in Prince Edward Island is 19, following the vast majority of the country’s regulations. In this province, players can enjoy a series of online gambling activities through the Atlantic Lottery Corporation (ALC) website.

ALC operates in several provinces in the region, including New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland and Labrador.

Although the online gambling platform doesn’t really look like most online casinos, it does cover all the basics. Players can opt for one of the following options:

• Lottery
• Online Casino
• iBingo
• Instant Wins
• Sports Betting via Proline

Those who enjoy trying their luck with the lottery can purchase the tickets online for several draws, such as Lotto Max, Lotto 6/49, and Daily Grand. Keno is also available for those who enjoy this thrilling game.

In case you prefer bingo, you’d be happy to know that the online platform has two game modes available: 75-ball bingo and 30-ball bingo. There are also some instant wins games with very low minimum stakes.

The most developed and complete vertical on the ALC’s platform is the online casino that offers all of the most popular games in the industry. It has a long list of slot machines, including some with very juicy jackpots and a few table games. These include blackjack, roulette, poker, and baccarat.

Those who prefer sports betting can also place their bets on the dozens of national and international sports events covered via the Proline platform. This option for online gambling in Prince Edward Island currently allows players to place single and multiple bets, including futures, props, and specials.

The land-based gambling in this province is not as developed as others, primarily due to the region’s size. There are a couple of retail casinos with small table game rooms. The good news is that these casinos offer a complete list of slot machines. In one of the casinos, it’s also possible to find a poker room.

Other well-developed offline gambling activities include lotteries and charitable events, similar to those in other provinces.

Overall, the current legislation in Prince Edward Island is quite favorable for those who enjoy online and offline gaming. The main issue is that players only have access to online gaming via ALC’s platform. However, since Ontario has already broken that regulatory barrier, it’s possible other provinces will follow suit.

Saskatchewan

Over the past thirty years, the gambling legislation in Canada has been through some severe changes. Eventually, the Canadian Criminal Code was updated, which allowed individual provinces to establish their own regulations.

In the case of Saskatchewan, one of the least populated provinces in the country, this meant that land-based casinos were able to flourish. Right now, nine retail casinos can be accessed by players over the age of 19.

Nevertheless, the situation is very different when it comes to online gaming. At the time of this article, there is only one legal option for online gaming: online lottery.

Although this is the only legally established vertical of online gaming for Saskatchewan residents, some technicalities must be considered.

The legislation on online gaming in Saskatchewan isn’t as straightforward as it could be, which means that some online gaming options fall within a grey area of the law. Online casinos, online sports betting, and even online poker sites are not considered legal or illegal.

Nevertheless, readers should know that Saskatchewan doesn’t offer any complete online gambling site. This is a stark difference compared to other provinces with access to online gambling websites such as PlayNow or the Atlantic Lottery Corporation platform.

As such, players who want to take advantage of legal and established gaming platforms must use those that are land-based. The good news is that there are plenty of those.

As mentioned above, there are nine brick-and-mortar casinos in the province. Almost all of them offer live poker, with some often organizing tournaments. On the other hand, bingo isn’t as popular in the casinos. Players who want to enjoy the thrill of stamping the numbers can join one of the over a dozen bingo halls available in the province. However, they won’t find the game in the established gambling buildings.

One particular gambling vertical that is very restricted is sports betting. There is only one option for those who want to place their picks in sports events, and that is through the Saskatchewan Lottery platform. This covers all the major lotto games and even offers keno.

The Sport Select feature allows players to place their bets on a limited number of sports and events, both national and international. On the other hand, horse racing is a sport that is regulated and can be bet on easily.

For the time being, Saskatchewan residents are very restricted regarding online gaming. Particularly compared to other provinces where the regulatory authorities operate an online gambling site. Hopefully, this will change in the near future. Once it does, we’ll make sure to update this section.

Alberta

Alberta is one of the largest provinces in the country and one with the most developed laws on online and retail gaming.

The gambling market is regulated by the Alberta Gaming, Liquor, and Cannabis Commission (AGLC). Since the Gaming, Liquor, and Cannabis Act came into place, online gambling has become entirely legal in the province. However, just like it happens in other regions, there are still some restrictions.

For instance, the only online gambling platform available is PlayAlberta. Similarly to PlayNow from British Columbia, this platform offers:

• Casino
• Sports Betting
• Live Dealer
• Lottery
• Instant Games

Those interested in the online casino section will be happy to hear that it is very well equipped with games. PlayAlberta offers over 85 slots and 10 table games, including poker, baccarat, blackjack, roulette, hi-lo, and video poker.

The live leader section is a bit less developed, offering simply six games that include blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and poker.

If you prefer betting on sports, you’ll have a wider variety of options to choose from. The platform covers ten sports, including hockey, football, basketball, baseball, and soccer. Players can now also bet on single events, which wasn’t feasible just a few months ago.

One of the most well-developed sections of PlayAlberta is the lottery. Players can easily buy tickets to five different lotteries, with prizes ranging between $1,000 and $55,000,000.

When it comes to land-based gambling, the province of Alberta is one of the most replenished in the country. It has a total of 20 retail casinos, with five being owned and operated by First Nations.

One of Alberta’s most significant gambling aspects is its charitable gaming operations. The AGLC is responsible for issuing licenses to organizations that operate bingo games and raffles to fundraise for charity purposes.

Horse racing is also a pretty big vertical in the province, hosting six race tracks. Players can bet on thoroughbred, chuck wagon, quarter horse, and other horse racing events.

Overall, it’s possible to say that the legislation on online and offline gambling in Alberta is very comprehensive. Players can enjoy a wide range of retail and online games, including online casino and sports betting.

For the time being, PlayAlberta is the single platform offering these games online. However, Ontario might have launched a trend in the country. We’ll make sure to keep an eye open on any further updates on the gambling law in Alberta and will update this section as soon as any details are released.

Newfoundland And Labrador

When it comes to gambling laws in Canada, Newfoundland and Labrador is probably the less developed province. Although the region is also part of the Atlantic Lottery Corporation, Newfoundland seems to be quite reticent to welcome online gambling into its territory.

This reluctance might be related to some studies the provincial government conducted after legalizing video lottery terminals back in 1991. Although the VLTs were limited to a maximum of 5 per site, the local government noticed an increase in gaming addiction over time.

In 1996 the government established a policy that diminished all the possibilities of building permanent casinos within the territory. This policy is still in place to this day and has enforced Newfoundland and Labrador’s anti-casino stance. As such, there is no retail casino available in the region.

Less than 10 years later, in 2005, the local government implemented a five-year strategy to reduce the number of VLTs available in the province. This was also the same time a strong campaign for responsible gambling was launched. These two actions have decreased by 15% the total number of VLTs in the market. The plan is to continue reducing the number of games available.

Apart from this gaming vertical, lotteries are legal in Newfoundland and Labrador. These games are run and operated via the Atlantic Lottery Corporation. They can be purchased in retail locations and via the Corporation’s online platform.

The Atlantic Lottery Corporation is also in charge of delivering and regulating several online games through their gambling website, including casino, bingo, live dealer, and sports betting.

Nevertheless, virtual lottery tickets are the most extensive online gambling option available for residents in the province.

Through the measures implemented over the years and the firm stance from the provincial government, Newfoundland and Labrador is now one of the less developed provinces in the country regarding gambling.

Several lawmakers in Newfoundland and Labrador have shared their urge to maintain the province free from online gambling. They also aim to continue to ensure the region remains free from land-based casinos.

With this in mind, it’s difficult to say what will happen in the future regarding the possible legalization of online gambling in Canada. As we know, the provincial governments have the right to self-regulate. As such, it’s improbable that Newfoundland and Labrador will change their stance any time soon.

Should that happen, we’ll make sure to update this section.