iGaming regulations in Ontario vs. other Canadian provinces
Posted March 4, 2024 10:35 am.
Last Updated May 1, 2024 11:27 am.
This article is presented to you by Ontario Casinos. Must be 19 or older. Ontario only. Please play responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, visit ConnexOntario.ca.
The landscape of online gaming is constantly changing, and in Canada, each province has its own regulations when it comes to online casino play. In this article, we explore the differences between online casino regulations, specifically comparing Ontario’s iGaming market to those of other provinces throughout Canada.
Ontario’s iGaming regulations
Ontario’s regulations require players to be physically present in the province to play real money casino games. The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) is committed to player safety and responsible gaming, which is why this geographical restriction is necessary.
Operators who want to provide online casino services in Ontario need to register with the AGCO. This registration requirement is in place to maintain industry standards, safeguard player safety and ensure compliance with the provincial regulatory framework.
Operators then need to apply to sign an operating agreement with iGaming Ontario (iGO), to be able to offer their platform to those in the province.
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Comparative analysis with other Canadian provinces
The regulatory framework for online gaming in Canada is quite varied, with each province having its own set of rules. In British Columbia, online gaming is managed by the British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC), which operates a government-run online casino called PlayNow. Alberta and Manitoba residents can also use PlayNow to play online casino games.
In Quebec the regulatory authority falls under Loto-Quebec, responsible for overseeing online and land-based gaming activities. The province has taken steps to create a legal and regulated online gaming environment similar to BC, reflecting a commitment to player protection and responsible gaming.
While some provinces have embraced online gaming within their borders, others do not currently offer provincially licensed online casinos.
Foreign licensed online casinos and the Ontario exception
It is important to note that online casinos licensed in foreign countries still allow Canadian players, even if they aren’t legally licensed to do so in some Canadian provinces.
The most commonly found foreign casino licenses in iGaming are issued by the UK GC, Curaçao, Isle of Man, and the Malta Gaming Authority.
A comparison of iGaming regulations in Ontario and other Canadian provinces reveals that Ontario is the first province that has an open market.
While other provinces have their own regulations and frameworks, Ontario sets itself apart through its strict licensing requirements and geographical restrictions on real money casino games.
As the iGaming industry continues to evolve, these regulations will play a crucial role in shaping the future of online gaming in Canada, balancing entertainment with responsible play.
This article is presented to you by Ontario Casinos. Must be 19 or older. Ontario only. Please play responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, visit ConnexOntario.ca.
