Top Online Gambling Sites 2024

We provide expert reviews and comparisons for all CA online gambling platforms, covering operators, games, and products. Discover personalized suggestions for responsible gaming and claim your exclusive bonus today.

Gambling Statistics in Canada

Canada generates about $14 billion in revenue annually from casinos, sports betting, lotteries, and there are approximately 87,000 electronic gaming machines active in the nation. This includes 60 land-based casinos, over 250 race tracks, about 33,000 lottery vendors, and 25,000 entities licensed to conduct temporary casinos, raffles, and bingo events. On average, Canadian households spend around $1,000 of their yearly income on gambling.

Regional reports indicate that wagering amounts remain fairly stable throughout Canada. Manitoba has a low gambling rate, whereas Quebec experiences the highest gambler participation.

These two extremes represent 50% and 69% respectively. In Quebec, every income level is represented among gamblers and gamers, whereas in Manitoba, a smaller proportion (33%) spends between $1 and $20 monthly on gambling, which is 10% below the national average.

In Canada, participating in lotteries is the prevalent gambling activity, with a 65% involvement rate. Instant win scratch tickets attract 36%, and 22% enjoy visiting casinos.

Gambling Laws in Canada

Prior to 1969, betting was limited to charity lotteries and horse races in Canada, typically found at fairs. That same year saw the amendment of the Canadian Criminal Code, allowing both the federal government and ten provinces to conduct lotteries.

Later on, in 1985, the federal government decided to hand over the management of other forms of gambling, like sports betting and casino operations, to the provinces. However, the Criminal Code still specified what individuals could gamble on, covering topics such as:

The Canadian Criminal Code

• Section 201 — being present in or operating a betting establishment is prohibited.
• Section 202 — addresses crimes associated with unlawful betting activities, pool-selling, and bookmaking.
• Section 203 — it is forbidden to place bets on someone else’s behalf.
• Section 205 — participation in lotteries or games of chance is unlawful.
• Section 207 — provincial governments are permitted to manage lottery schemes, either independently or alongside other governments. Lotteries can be legally held by religious or charitable organizations if they possess a license from the Lieutenant Governor.

Canadian Regulators and Gambling Authorities

1. New Brunswick

Under Paragraph 207(1)(a) of Canada’s Criminal Code, the mandate for overseeing provincial gaming in New Brunswick falls to the New Brunswick Lotteries and Gaming Corporation (NBLGC). The province’s Gaming, Liquor & Security Licensing Branch (Department of Justice & Public Safety) is responsible for monitoring and regulating provincial gaming, as well as controlling, licensing, and managing charitable gaming within New Brunswick.

2. Manitoba

The Manitoba Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Authority is responsible for regulating and licensing all gaming activities in the province. The Manitoba Gaming Control Commission registers all gaming equipment suppliers for licensed operators within the province.

3. British Columbia

The Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch (Ministry of Finance) is a department responsible for regulatory oversight and licensing of charity gaming. The British Columbia Lottery Corporation manages and organizes all commercial gaming, including online gaming, within the province.

4. Alberta

The Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission is the agency responsible for regulating recreational cannabis, alcoholic beverages, and gaming activities in the province. It is the sole regulatory authority in Alberta.

5. Ontario

The AGCO (Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario) oversees and regulates slot machine venues and casinos in Ontario. The OLG (Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation) manages and operates these casinos. The launch of online gambling, including online casinos in Ontario, is also monitored by the OLG.

6. Nova Scotia

Under the Service Nova Scotia initiative, the Alcohol, Gaming & Tobacco Branch takes responsibility for specific elements of the Gambling Control Act. The Nova Scotia Gaming Corporation is committed to upholding social responsibility in the industry while also generating substantial revenue.

7. Prince Edward Island

The Consumer, Corporate & Insurance Division of the Department of Justice & Public Safety is tasked with overseeing and regulating events such as casino nights, raffles, and charitable gaming activities like bingo. Furthermore, the Prince Edward Island Lotteries Commission administers and licenses gaming operations throughout the region.

8. Quebec

In Quebec, management of casino operations, along with bingo games, traditional lotteries, and gaming devices at these locations, is handled by the Quebec Lottery Corporation, a government entity. Comprehensive oversight of all casino-related activities, certain types of lotteries, contests, and video lottery terminals is the responsibility of the Quebec Alcohol, Racing, and Gaming Commission.

9. Saskatchewan

In Saskatchewan, the Indigenous Gaming Regulators are tasked with overseeing and providing licenses for First Nations’ charitable gaming activities on reserves through Band Council Resolutions. Meanwhile, the Saskatchewan Liquor & Gaming Authority handles the overall management of gambling activities across the province.

10. Northwest Territories

In the Northwest Territories, the Department of Municipal & Community Affairs, along with the Northwest Territories Liquor, Gaming & Cannabis Commission, are the key bodies overseeing the regulation of both alcohol and gambling-related activities in the area.

11. Nunavut

Within Nunavut, the primary authority over gambling regulations is the Department of Health. Their responsibilities include overseeing all gambling activities across the territory.

12. Yukon

In Yukon, the Professional Licensing and Regulatory Affairs Division, part of the Department of Community Services, along with Charitable Gaming Licensing, serves as the regulatory entities in charge of administering and overseeing the licensing of gambling activities within the province.

13. Newfoundland & Labrador

The Consumer Affairs Division (Digital Government and Service) is responsible for regulating gambling activities, including lotteries for charitable and non-profit purposes, in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Provincial Gaming Legislation in Canada

Manitoba

In this province, all forms of gambling are overseen by the Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries Authority. Manitoba offers only one official online casino, PlayNow Manitoba, with no restrictions for residents accessing other international casinos. Sports betting enthusiasts in Manitoba can place their bets via the Sport Select site, with a daily limit of $250.

Alberta

Gambling is very popular in this province, as residents are free to play on online gaming platforms. Alberta has 25 land-based casinos accessible to anyone over 18. Sports betting is also common here, although only parlay bets are allowed, with a maximum daily limit of $250 for these bets.

Saskatchewan

In Saskatchewan, it is not possible to start or manage online casinos, yet people living there have the liberty to gamble in other provinces or overseas. Operating a land-based casino within Saskatchewan is allowed. The Sports Select service supports sports betting as long as it involves parlay betting, with an exception for horse racing.

Ontario

In Ontario, gambling at traditional casinos is fully legal, with a variety of locations providing slot games. The rules for online casinos are very relaxed, enabling residents to enjoy activities on international casino platforms. Ontario features one government-regulated online casino known as PlayOLG. Sports enthusiasts in Ontario have access to Pro-Line betting and are expected to see more online sports betting options by 2022. Moreover, residents are eligible to join in the province’s lottery draws.

Nova Scotia

In Nova Scotia, gambling activities are fully permitted at one of the two casinos operated by the government. Players interested in online casinos can access any platform that is based overseas, while those who enjoy sports betting have the option to place their bets through the Pro-Line website (only parlay bets are permissible). The province also sanctions video and ticket lotteries along with other fundraising games such as bingo.

Quebec

Quebec has some of the most relaxed gambling laws in Canada, permitting players to engage in games at several offshore casinos, including the state-operated Espacejeux. The sole regulated betting platform in this area is Mise-O-Jeu, which requires gamblers to make parlay bets. In Quebec, there are nine physical casinos, accessible to anyone aged 18 or older.

Prince Edward Island

Casinos on land are allowed in Prince Edward Island, although no exclusive casinos are currently operational in the province. While online casinos remain unregulated, sports bettors can place wagers using the Pro-Line service available throughout the Atlantic provinces. The Atlantic Lottery Corporation manages a provincial lottery for local residents.

Newfoundland and Labrador

This region has a policy against land-based casinos and lacks any government-approved online gambling platforms. However, Newfoundland & Labrador residents are free from legal barriers when it comes to international online casinos. Enthusiasts in sports can use the Atlantic Lottery’s Pro-Line service, which limits bets to $250 per day, while most foreign platforms don’t have such constraints.

New Brunswick

New Brunswick is home to a single casino on land, showing that such activities are allowed provincially. While there isn’t a state-run online casino, residents who prefer virtual gaming can easily access overseas sites. The authorized avenue for sports betting within the area is limited to ALC’s Pro-Line.

British Columbia

On the West Coast of British Columbia, an extensive selection of gambling experiences is available, with 15 brick-and-mortar casinos operating. PlayNow is the exclusive official platform for both casino games and sports betting, yet players face no legal restrictions when joining international gambling sites. Those engaging in sports wagering through this channel in British Columbia must partake in parlay betting.

Age Limits for Gambling in Canada

In Canada, the legal gambling age is usually 19, but each province implements its own regulations. For example, in regions such as Nova Scotia, Ontario, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Newfoundland and Labrador, Yukon, Nunavut, and Northwest Territories, it remains at 19. On the other hand, Manitoba, Alberta, and Québec have established it at 18. Consequently, where you choose to gamble significantly affects these age criteria. These limitations are also applicable to online gaming. Just like at physical casinos, Canadian online gambling sites and sports betting platforms require proof of age before you can place bets.

Top Online Casinos in Canada

1. Royal Panda

Royal Panda casino presents a library of over 3000 games and claims an impressive win rate of 98.5%. The casino has relaxed terms for bonus playthroughs, supports various payment options, and processes withdrawals within one to three days. Designed with a modern and polished look, the website is easy to use and friendly for beginners. Additionally, a mobile app is accessible for download.

2. BetVictor

This casino platform boasts a modern design and features a broad array of table games and slots created by various software developers. New players are greeted with a tempting welcome bonus, while returning players can enjoy additional promotions and bonuses. Customer support is available around the clock. A variety of payment options are offered, including PayPal and Visa Card.

3. PartyCasino

Founded in 1997, PartyCasino is a reliable gambling site offering over 600 games, inclusive of live dealer options. Both new and regular players can benefit from free spins and deposit rewards. There are about 30 different payment methods available, ensuring smooth withdrawals.

4.Energy Casino

At Energy Casino, players have access to a vast range of games and thrilling promotions and bonuses. It includes many live dealer games and thousands of slots. Navigating the site is easy, and they offer a mobile app for sports, although not for the casino. Energy Casino accepts multiple payment methods and has an RTP that varies from 95% to 99%.

5. TonyBet Casino

TonyBet Casino showcases an array of more than 400 games, including renowned table games, live dealer sessions, and slots. Newcomers from Canada are eligible for welcome promos that feature free spins. The platform’s performance is seamless across both mobile and desktop devices. It supports multiple payment options, with withdrawals processed promptly for those using e-wallets. Furthermore, it features a VIP program, and the usual RTP is about 95%.

Visit our detailed TonyBet Casino Review.

6. Dream Vegas

Dream Vegas offers over 1000 table-side games and slot choices from more than 80 software providers. Unique perks are granted to VIP members moving from other online casinos. Various payment methods are accepted by the site, and making deposits incurs no extra fees. The average RTP stretches between 96% and 99.8%.

Read our in-depth Dream Vegas Casino Review.

Best Online Sportsbooks in Canada

1. LeoVegas

LeoVegas provides betting opportunities for over 30 different sports, offering a live betting option. It includes pre-match boosts for football markets along with chances for enhanced profits and free bets. Registered users can make instant, fee-free transactions using debit/credit cards and prepaid cards. A specialized mobile app can be downloaded, and the site keeps competitive odds.

2. William Hill

For more than two decades, William Hill has been among the leading betting platforms. It brings in new users with a welcome offer and provides a broad range of markets and sports options for Canadian players. In addition, it offers the unique William Plus Card which allows bets from your online account to be linked with those placed at a physical William betting venue.

3. TonyBet

TonyBet enjoys popularity among Canadian bettors for its extensive variety of betting markets that feature enticing odds. New users are typically welcomed with a package offer, and a mobile app is accessible for download. The site supports numerous banking options and provides outstanding customer service.

4. BetVictor

BetVictor emerges as a leading bookmaker, recognized for its excellent mobile and web sports betting amenities that offer a variety of free bets and appealing betting odds. The platform provides a comprehensive live streaming and in-play experience. BetVictor facilitates several payment methods, enabling swift withdrawals via Skrill and Neteller.

5. 888Sport

888Sport is primarily known for sports betting, but it also provides options for poker and casino games. New members can take advantage of free bets and various promotions. The site offers a diverse selection of sports, markets, and leagues. Users can place bets via a downloadable mobile app that works smoothly, ensuring Canadian bettors receive a satisfactory sports betting experience.

Gambling activities in Canada have experienced steady growth over the years, with an increasing number of participants registering and wagering impressive amounts in each region. Nevertheless, since gambling regulations are governed by both territorial and provincial laws, understanding the specifics of when and where to gamble can be somewhat challenging. Online gambling is legal in Canada if you either play on overseas-based online casino sites or use a gambling app provided by your local lottery corporation. This section will explain the essentials of Canada’s gambling laws, how to identify the top online betting platforms, and additional details.

Leading Horse Betting Platforms in Canada

Horse racing is one of the most significant gambling sports globally, with more than $10 billion wagered annually on this exciting and unpredictable venture. Well-knownrace tracks across Canadafeature Hanover Raceway, Hippodrome Quebec, Hastings Park, Grand River Raceway, and Charlottetown.

Comprehending Pari-Mutuel

Pari-mutuel betting involves gamblers placing their stakes into a collective pool for an event, with winnings distributed among the participants while the house retains a small cut of the total bets. To maintain public trust, the Canadian Pari-Mutuel Agency supervises and controls pari-mutuel horse racing wagering at Canada’s racetracks.

Among the highly esteemed horse betting championships are the Triple Crown contests such as the Kentucky Derby, Belmont Stakes, Preakness Stakes, accompanied by the distinguished Breeders Cup. Many top-notch services are accessible to Canadians who are keen on betting on horse races, including:

• Mr Green
• TonyBet
• William Hill
• Karamba
• Mr. Play Sport

Top Online Slots

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Financial Services

Transferring funds swiftly, conveniently, and securely is crucial for you to enjoy online gambling. You aim to quickly add funds to your chosen platforms, withdraw winnings when you wish, or check your account balance at any time, regardless of your location.

Payment system performance may vary according to individual choices, but numerous online casinos now provide a broad selection of payment methods (including withdrawal options) that are fast, safe, and simple. Listed below are some popular payment methods in the realm of online gambling.

Technology Developers

The software firms that online casinos or sportsbooks opt to partner with are crucial to defining their gambling platform’s identity. Besides impacting how the site functions, the selection of games at a casino or betting site hinges on the quality of developers behind it. Venues supported by leading software giants like NetEnt and Evolution promise more in-demand games for casino fans, and we’ve assessed the available options based on this standard. Pinpointing which provider is used by whom and determining high performers is essential in crafting our reviews and advice.

Factors to Weigh in a Canadian Gambling Site

Canadian gamers looking for a site will find many options but must ensure they choose a secure and rewarding platform. Here are important features to consider when picking the leading Canadian gambling site.

1. Game Variety Many online casinos join forces with various software providers to offer Canadian users an extensive range of games. However, it’s crucial to make sure that the platform includes your preferred games. Certain casinos might emphasize slot games, while others may have more table games. Most casino websites allow you to explore the available games before signing up and making a deposit. In sports betting, assess the sports offered and compare the odds’ competitiveness against other platforms. It’s always advantageous to select sportsbooks that provide a vast array of sports and competitive odds to maximize your returns.
2. Safety and Security When it comes to online betting sites, involving monetary transactions makes security paramount. Opt for a gambling site equipped with an SSL certificate to safeguard your personal and financial information. Furthermore, ensure that the site holds a license from a trusted gaming authority to confirm the safety and integrity of the games available if you’re wagering on casino platforms.
3. Deposit/Withdrawal Methods Choose an online betting platform that provides accessible options for deposits and withdrawals. An ideal site would present a broad spectrum of payment methods. If you favor a specific banking option, verify its availability on the site before registering. Also, review the time needed to process your winnings into cash and be aware of any withdrawal limits.
4. Loyalty Programs A high-quality sportsbook or casino should present numerous promotions and rewards to its patrons. There should be a welcome bonus for newcomers. Long-term players should likewise benefit from various promotions and incentives based on their loyalty and duration with the brand. These bonuses allow you to enjoy your preferred games without spending your actual money. Note, this does not apply to residents of Ontario as no offers or bonuses can be promoted by casinos or sportsbooks there.
5. Canadian Registration/License Online betting platforms typically have substantial tax revenues based on the country, governed by strict regulations. Ensure your chosen online gambling site is registered with Canadian gaming authorities. Playing at a locally authorized online casino shields you from many issues, including accessing your funds and maintaining game fairness. Bear in mind, not every province has a regulated online casino market, so for foreign sportsbooks and casinos, follow our recommendations to ensure a positive betting experience as a Canadian utilizing one of our suggested sites.
6. Customer Support Review a variety of feedback and ensure the casino you select provides round-the-clock customer support. Some casino sites do not offer assistance on weekends, leading to delayed query resolutions. Make certain that customer service is consistently available via email, live chat, or phone prior to enrolling with the online betting site.

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