- π The Best Ontario Online Casinos β Legal iGaming Casino Sites
- β‘ Latest News in the Ontario Gambling Industry
- β Top 10 Online Casinos in Ontario
- π How We Review Ontario Online Casinos
- π° Ontario Online Casino Games
- ποΈ Experience the Thrill of Live Ontario Games
- π± Ontario Casino Apps vs. Mobile Casinos
- βοΈ Are Ontario Online Casinos Good?
- π‘ Tips for Choosing an Online Casino
- πΈ Payment Methods in Ontario
- βοΈ Legal Gambling in Ontario
- π‘οΈ Regulated Ontario Gambling Market
- π¦ Responsible Gambling
- π Ontario Online Casino vs. Land Based Casino
- β The Future of Gambling in Ontario
- β Ontario Online Casinos FAQ
π The Best Ontario Online Casinos β Legal iGaming Casino Sites
Ontario is the only Canadian province with a regulated gambling market. All gambling services in Ontario must be licensed by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO). To operate legally, online casinos must adhere to strict guidelines and ensure their services’ safety, trustworthiness, and fairness for Ontarian players.
New Ontario casinos go live every month! So, our team of experts regularly updates the list of the best online casinos. Keep your ear to the ground and stay up-to-date with Ontario’s online gaming market.
β Licensed by | AGCO |
βοΈ Regulated by | iGaming Ontario |
π Legal Gambling Age | 19+ |
β¨ Ontario Online Casinos | 60+ |
π Best Online Casino | PartyCasino |
β Minimum Deposit | $1-20 |
β‘ Payout Speed | 1-5 Days |
π‘οΈ Wagering Requirements | 0-x35 |
π± Mobile Casino | Android, iOS, Windows |
πΈ Payment Methods | PayPal, credit/debit, e-wallets, Interac |
π² Software Providers | Microgaming, NetEnt, Evolution |
β‘ Latest News in the Ontario Gambling Industry
2023 has been a busy year for iGaming Ontario. We’ve had new exclusive games released, like Playtech live casino games, new regulations approved, like banning celebrities from gambling ads, and a bunch of new Ontario online casino site platforms launched. Below are some of the most recent updates in Ontario.
November 20th, 2023
Caesar Windsor guests have received a letter warning them of a data breach. The letter came either as an email or via the mail. The casino is giving their guests access to an identity protection service through TransUnion Canada and a credit and dark web monitoring service (myTrueIdentity) for two years.
November 15th, 2023
Pointsbet Casino has received a fine from the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario. The organization claims that the gambling company failed to intervene when a player lost $500,000 in less than three months. In addition, the company allegedly failed to intervene with some sort of responsible gaming measure.
November 8th, 2023
The CFO of NorthStar Gaming is changing. The Ontario-based company announced that Jennifer Barber is leaving to pursue new career opportunities outside the company. NorthStar Bets Casino will continue with an interim CFO, Chin Dhushenthen.
November 2nd, 2023
To increase their presence in Ontario, the iGaming developer Hacksaw Gaming has entered a partnership with BetMGM Ontario. This deal aims to expand Hacksaw’s presence in Ontario by introducing its casino names on MGM Ontario’s casino site. The game developer has similar deals with other operates that are also licensed by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) and iGaming Ontario.
November 1st, 2023
New live dealer games are coming to the Ontario online casino, FanDuel. Recently, the company made an agreement with Playtech to host their live casino games. The new games are streamed from Riga, Latvia, where the Playtech studio is located. Among the new live dealer games are Roulette, Blackjack, Baccarat and more.
October 27th, 2023
In the second quarter of 2023 (July 1 β September 30), Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) made payments worth $40.3 million to 29 communities across Ontario. So far, the province’s communities have received $83.9 million. Revenue from casino gaming contributes to economic recovery, infrastructure development, and job creation as OLG reinvests 100% of the company’s profits in Ontario.
β Top 10 Online Casinos in Ontario
The best Ontario online casinos offer Canadian players exciting casino games and online gambling experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a newbie, these AGCO-licensed online gambling sites provide a safe and secure environment to explore and enjoy the most popular games.
β¨ 1. LeoVegas Casino β Best Ontario Online Casino
LeoVegas Ontario is my number online casino! It’s a well-rounded legal online gaming service that provides all you need. You can play your favourite online slot games and table games and participate in live casino games and shows. And don’t just take my word for it β LeoVegas is an award-winning online casino with multiple wins!
LeoVegas Rating
LeoVegas casino in Ontario is the perfect choice for new and seasoned players. The minimum deposit is $10, and it features both online sports betting and games. My highest-rated Ontario casino is LeoVegas because it has everything you need to play on a safe gambling site.
β¨ 2. PartyCasino β Canadian #1 Casino Site
PartyCasino is my go-to casino in Ontario. I came for casino games and new, unique features, and now I’m a seasoned player who’s hooked on Party Poker! Indeed, PartyCasino has a dedicated section for online Poker and sports betting β PartySports!
Party Casino Rating
Party Casino is one of Ontario’s top online casinos, for a good reason! This famous gambling site offers 1,000+ real money casino games, rewarding gambling experiences, and speedy payouts. So, start playing premium online slots on PartyCasino for $10.
β¨ 3. Zodiac Casino β Best 1$ Deposit Casino
Zodiac Casino has a massive collection of Microgaming slot titles, like Immortal Romance and big progressive jackpots, like Mega Moolah. As a fan of these classic games, Zodiac is my go-to $1 deposit casino in Ontario. However, the web design is a bit lacking.
Zodiac Casino Rating
Zodiac Ontario has around 850 games. Most titles are online slots and include progressive jackpots, megaways, and cluster slots. Zodiac’s library is small compared to other casinos in Ontario, which have around 2,000 of the best casino games. However, it makes it up with its lower-than-average minimum deposit.
β¨ 4. Jackpot City Casino β Best $10 Deposit Casino
Jackpot City is a paradise for online slots fans β especially for progressive jackpot players. My favourite part of this Ontario online casino is that it’s full of Microgaming games. While it also features other games, Jackpot City is the perfect choice for when you have the itch to play classic online games.
Jackpot City Rating
Jackpot City Ontario launched in 2022 when it received the AGCO license. The Ontario casino features 800+ games, fast payouts, and a minimum deposit amount of C$10. Jackpot City is one of Canada’s most popular online casinos, so it’s clear that Ontario players genuinely enjoy playing on this site.
β¨ 5. Wildz Casino β Best Slots Selection with 3,500+ Games
Wildz is part of the revolutionizing casino group Rootz Ltd. The company set a new Ontario online casino standard with cutting-edge technology and automation. I’ve been delighted with Wildz and its sister sites, like Wheelz because they succeeded in bringing something new to Ontario’s evolving igaming market.
Wildz Rating
Wildz Casino has 3,500+ casino games and a machine-learning algorithm that helps Ontario players get the best possible gambling experience. In addition, you can play most of the slot games for free (demo mode) and exclusive games. If you like what Wildz offers, I highly recommend you try Wheelz, Casino, and Spinz.
β¨ 6. Caesars Palace Online Casino β Instant Cashouts for Ontarians
Caesars Online Casino is a famous gambling brand that relaunched as Caesars Palace Online Casino Ontario in the fall of 2023. The new mobile platform is available in Ontario and licensed states in the US. This renowned casino is my favourite place to bet on sports. The sportsbook has everything from football to tennis to even e-gaming.
Caesars Palace Online Casino Ranking
Caesars Online Casino offers 1,000+ games, including daily slot tournaments and branded live dealer games. The brand was launched in 1966, so this Ontario online casino is a gaming industry veteran. This is one of the best PayPal casinos in Ontario! It’s clear that Caesars Palace has invested in keeping players satisfied in the long run, and this online casino is here to stay.
β¨ 7. PlayOJO Casino β All Wins Paid in Cash
I recommend PlayOJO Casino for Ontarian players looking for a gambling site that puts its customers first. Their goal is to be a fair online casino for players in Ontario. So, wins are paid in cash, there are no withdrawal restrictions, and it’s a fun, easy, and honest casino. What I love most about PlayOJO casino is their culture of “No Funny Business.”
PlayOJO Rating
PlayOJO is a fair casino that has created something exceptional in the casino world of Ontario. And to be honest, it’s also highly refreshing to see an operator trying something different. The Ontario online casino offers 3,000+ casino games and has no wagering requirements.
β¨ 8. Pokerstars Casino β Best Table Games in Ontario
Don’t let the name fool you β Pokerstars Casino Ontario has more than just Poker! The Ontario casino has 1,000+ cash games, including the best hits from Microgaming, Leapfrog Gaming, Evolution Gaming, and Pragmatic Play. So, if you enjoy playing Poker, this site is exactly what you need.
PokerStars Rating
Most casino games on Pokerstars Ontario are slots with progressive jackpots or drop-and-win features. You can also play Spin & Win Roulette, a Pokerstars exclusive version of the classic games. The gambling platform also offers a sportsbook for all sports betting fans. And, of course, as the name implies, this is the best online casino for Online Poker.
β¨ 9. Unibet Casino β Legendary Sportsbook Since 1997
Unibet Casino has recently started to become more popular. While the casino brand was established in the 90s, the Ontario site is now gaining traction. The Ontario online casino has all you need; navigate to the jackpot tab and play the best jackpot slots and exclusive games.
Unibet Rating
Unibet Casino is a Canadian-friendly online casino with great customer service and casino game selection. Deposit at least $10, and you can start placing wagers on the best online slots in Ontario. You can also enjoy live dealer game shows like Live Monopoly.
β¨ 10. Royal Panda Casino β Best Mobile Casino
Royal Panda Casino is owned by LeoVegas, so you can be sure to get the same quality on this site as well. I’ve been gaming at this Ontario casino before it got bought. Since then, the awesome selection and quality of the table games have shot up, not to mention the web design, which runs flawlessly on any device, from PC to mobile devices.
Royal Panda Rating
Royal Panda Ontario hosts over 3,000 casino games in its extensive library, including jackpot slots, table games, live dealer games, and sports betting. Like most casinos, the minimum deposit is $10, so you can start playing with low commitments.
π OLG Online Casino β Safest Gambling Site in Ontario
The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation runs the OLG Online Casino. The most significant difference between the government-owned casino and its private competitors is that OLG, in addition to casino games like online slots and sports betting, offers online lottery games. You can play games like slots, bingo, keno, and lotto at this gambling site.
π How We Review Ontario Online Casinos
Our Ontario online casino reviews aim to provide information to help you choose where to play. My goal is not to tell you what the absolute best casino in Ontario is but instead to give my insights, suggestions, and experience. Our BonusFinder team reviews all authorized ON gambling brands and considers these factors: gambling licence, security, huge selection, customer support, mobile compatibility, and user experience.
- Gambling License:
All online casinos displayed on BonusFinder must have a license from the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario. We don’t review sites that don’t have the license or those that don’t adhere to the regulation rules. Ontario has adopted a license-based gambling model, and BonusFinder respects the province’s decision. - Safety and Security:
The best online casinos have secure software platforms that use encryption technology to protect user data. In addition, regulated online casinos in Ontario must be able to protect assets and pay all players their winnings in due time. Casinos with security risks don’t make it to our lists or reviews. - Game Selection:
The main appeal of online gambling is games, so our reviews factor in game libraries. However, quality is more important than quantity, so we don’t reward casinos with huge libraries with low-quality games. Instead, the available casino games must be entertaining, rewarding, and well-running. Casinos need to have at least slots, tables, and live casino games. - Customer Support:
Online casinos in Ontario offer multiple ways to contact the customer support team. Ontario gambling sites must at least have a live chat, email address, and phone number. Sometimes, a Help Centre or a comprehensive FAQ section is also enough. It’s also important that customer support is available in English and French for Canadian players. - User Experience:
While a rewarding casino experience is a must-have, players should have an easy time navigating and playing on the site. Nothing makes a player as mad as when a slot suddenly lags in the middle of a round or if the page buttons are too small to tap onβour ratings factor in how easy it is to use the online casino platform on your preferred device. - Mobile Compatibility:
Mobile gaming is extremely popular, so online casinos must run smoothly on handheld devices. Many gambling platforms have mobile browser-compatible sites that work on different types of screens. Other casinos have launched official Ontario casino apps that make mobile gaming even faster.
π° Ontario Online Casino Games
Regulated Ontario online casinos provide a wider range of the most popular casino games on their sites. When you play in casinos online, you can generally find video slots, progressive jackpots, table games, live dealer games, and game shows. Slot games are the most popular casino games in Canada. However, an online casino gaming corporation or provider must also be licensed by iGaming Ontario according to regulation rules.
The Ontario iGaming laws require an online casino game to have at least 85% return to the player (RTP). The best paying online casinos in Ontario have high payout percentages. When playing Ontario games, the RTP varies between 90% and 98%. In addition, the best casinos are transparent about your chances.
π² Slot Games
Online slots are the most popular way of gambling online. Indeed, slots are one of Ontario’s most iconic parts of online gambling. Most slot games can be divided into three popular categories: classic, modern, and progressive jackpot.
Traditional slot games have 3 reels, and modern ones usually have 5. Ontario online slots can also have an exciting plot, where you can follow branching stories by winning different paylines or getting specific Wild symbols. Cascading slot games make it even more interesting by introducing symbols that break and bring down new tiles.
Progressive slot games include progressive jackpot slots like Mega Moolah. These games share the same pot, so whenever a player bets on these online casino games, a portion is added to the jackpot. The pool can grow until one lucky player wins the enormous prize β lucky Canadian players have won jackpot slots prizes in the past years. Unfortunately, the progressive jackpot prize pool is limited to the province due to Ontario regulations.
π² Table Games
Ontario gambling brands offer a wide range of table games. Table games usually include Poker, Blackjack, online Roulette, Baccarat, and Craps. While the first three are available on all the best Ontario casinos, you can sometimes find Baccarat and Craps on web casinos as well.
Respectful online casinos should offer the classic and new versions of dice and card games like Poker, Blackjack, and Roulette. For example, popular Poker games are traditional Video Poker and Texas Hold’ em. Popular blackjack variations are Atlantic City Blackjack and Vegas Strip Blackjack. Roulettes are typically divided into lightning Roulette, European Roulette and American. Both variations are popular in Ontario.
π² Real Money Online Bingo
An often-overlooked casino game that all Ontarians know is bingo. Online bingo is also legal in Ontario. You can play traditional bingo, where you mark each number and yell bingo at the end or try new alternatives like Slingo and live shows, like Deal or No Deal, and other bingo-style slots. OLG is the best online casino in Ontario for online bingo. In addition, the casino offers keno, lottery, and other casino games.
ποΈ Experience the Thrill of Live Ontario Games
Unleash your competitive spirit and embrace the immersive ambiance of Ontario live casino games. Get ready to embark on a journey where the boundary between virtual and real dissolves, leaving you captivated by the seamless fusion of modern technology and authentic live casino experiences.
β¨ Live Casino Ontario
Online casinos in Ontario bring the exhilaration of live casino games right to your fingertips. Play all the classics, like Blackjack and Roulette, and discover how the publishing companies have gone above and beyond to expand the selection, ensuring there’s something for every player’s taste. Let’s explore some of the popular live casino games available in Ontario.
- Live Roulette: Place your wager and watch the iconic Roulette wheel spin in real-time. Interact with the live dealer and fellow players as you anticipate the ball’s final resting place.
- Live Baccarat: Immerse yourself in the elegance of this classic as you strive to predict whether the Player or the Banker will have a higher hand value. Experience the excitement of squeezing cards and enjoy the suspenseful gameplay.
- Live Blackjack: Engage in strategic gameplay as you aim to beat the dealer’s hand without exceeding 21. Interact with the live dealer, make decisions in real time, and feel the thrill of each card being dealt.
- Sic Bo: Roll the dice and jump into the ancient Chinese game. Predict the outcome of the dice roll and celebrate your wins in this fast-paced and captivating game.
- Dragon Tiger: Participate in a simplified version of Baccarat, where you choose between the Dragon or the Tiger, predicting which hand will have a higher card.
- Money Wheel: Spin the wheel of fortune and anticipate where it will come to rest. Enjoy the simplicity and potential rewards of this exciting game.
- Live Game Shows: Engage in unique live show experiences offered by the best Ontario online casinos. These interactive and entertaining games, inspired by popular TV shows, provide an immersive and fun-filled internet gaming environment.
- Live Poker: Test your skills and compete against other players in live poker games. Participate in various poker variations, including Texas Hold ’em, Omaha, and more, as you strive to build the best deck and claim victory.
- Live Craps: Roll the dice and join the exhilarating action of live craps. Place your bets on the outcome of the dice rolls and experience the lively atmosphere of this classic casino game.
Pros and Cons of Live Casino Games
Live dealer games on the best Ontario casinos offer a unique gaming experience. However, it’s important to consider both the advantages and drawbacks before diving into the action. Here are some pros and cons of live casino games in Ontario online casinos:
Pros of live casino games
- Authentic Experience: Live casino games bring the thrill and atmosphere of a traditional brick-and-mortar casino directly to your screen.
- Real-Time Interaction: Engage in live conversations with professional live dealers and fellow players through the chat feature.
- Transparency and Trust: Live casino games provide a high level of transparency as you can witness the gameplay in real time.
- Diverse Selection: The best Ontario online casinos offer a wide variety of live casino games, including popular casino games like Roulette, Blackjack, Baccarat, and more.
- Flexibility and Convenience: Enjoy the convenience of playing live casino table games from the comfort of your home or on the go.
Cons of live dealer games
- Internet Connection and Technical Issues: Live casino games need a stable internet connection to ensure smooth gameplay.
- Limited Availability: Live casino games may not be available 24/7 for all variations or languages.
- Paced Gameplay: Live casino games follow a set pace dictated by the dealer, which may be slower compared to computer-generated versions.
- Less Privacy: While live casino games offer real-time interaction, players should be aware that everyone can see their messages in the live chat.
π± Ontario Casino Apps vs. Mobile Casinos
Ontario offers a range of mobile gaming options, including the best online casino apps and mobile-optimized sites. With a mobile device, you can easily access Ontario online casino sites without installing anything. While not always available, casino apps can be downloaded from reputable sources such as the App Store or Google Play Store and from the online casino’s website, like Luxury Casino Ontario.
To ensure a seamless experience downloading an app from an Ontario casino site, enable the option to install apps from unknown sources. However, casino games are fully optimized for mobile, including Android, iPhone, and Windows, even without downloading an app. This means you can enjoy the same exciting casino experience from your mobile device as you would from a PC without missing any features.
In addition, you can easily access mobile casinos through your device’s browser and even add them to your home screen for quick and convenient access. So, whether you prefer to casino apps or mobile-optimized sites, Ontario offers a variety of platforms for safe and legal casino gaming.
βοΈ Are Ontario Online Casinos Good?
You may be wondering whether Ontario casinos are a good choice for you. You might be used to the unregulated online gaming industry if you’re a veteran gambler. Or you might be a new player wanting to know a regulated market’s benefits. Let’s examine why a regulated gambling market is good for electronic gaming.
- Safety: Regulated casinos, such as Ontario online casino sites, offer many advantages. These are overseen by regulatory authorities, which means they adhere to strict fairness and security standards. So, have peace of mind, knowing that your personal and financial information is protected.
- Games: Legal Ontario online gambling platform also offers various real money games, partnering with top developers to provide popular and exciting titles. So, enjoy playing your favourite Ontario online slots in one place.
- Convenience: Playing in a regulated casino is also convenient and accessible, as it can be accessed from any device with an internet connection. Play your favourite games wherever and whenever you choose.
Overall, playing in a regulated online casino such as Ontario casinos offers you a safe, fair, and enjoyable gaming experience with a wide range of casino games!
π‘ Tips for Choosing an Online Casino
Choosing the right casino can be an exciting experience, and there are a few things you can do to ensure a safe and fun gaming experience.
- Choose a reputable and licensed casino: Always play at a reputable and licensed Ontario online casino to ensure a safe and fair gaming experience. Check the casino’s license and read reviews before signing up.
- Check the game selection: Make sure the casino has a variety of games you enjoy playing. For example, look for an online Ontario casino with a good selection of slots, table games, and live dealer games.
- Consider the payment options: Check the payment options available at the Ontario online casino and choose one that is safe and convenient for you. Some popular deposit methods include credit/debit cards, e-wallets, and bank transfers.
- Read the terms and conditions: Before creating an account and making a deposit, make sure to read the terms and conditions carefully. For example, some casinos may have rollover requirements or other restrictions.
- Set a budget: Decide how much money you are ready to lose gambling and stick to it. Don’t chase losses; never gamble more than you can afford to lose.
- Play responsibly: Remember that gambling should be fun and entertaining. Don’t let it become a problem; seek help if you think you have a gambling addiction.
By following these tips, you can enjoy a safe online casino gambling experience in Ontario casinos with licenses.
πΈ Payment Methods in Ontario
Legal gambling offers superior banking options compared to offshore gambling. With the opening of Ontario’s online gaming market to competition, big brands from around the world can now apply for licenses and offer online banking services under the supervision of the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario. These brands have established relationships with banks and payment processors, providing various payment methods for real money deposits and withdrawals.
Payment Methods | Advantages | Disadvantages |
---|---|---|
Visa | Widely accepted at most Ontario online casinos. | Some casinos may charge fees for using Visa as a payment method. |
MasterCard | Easy and quick to use, with widespread acceptance. | Some banks may block transactions to casinos online, leading to declined transactions. |
Interac e-Transfer | Safe and secure method of transferring funds. | It may take longer for funds to be transferred compared to other payment methods. |
MuchBetter | Has user-friendly app for convenient use. | Not as widely accepted as other payment methods. |
Skrill | Low fees and instant withdrawals. | Some casinos may not support Skrill for online banking. |
Neteller | Offers fast and secure transactions. | Cannot be used at any gambling platform. |
Online Bank Transfers | High deposit and withdrawal limits. | An online bank transfer may take longer to be transferred compared to other payment methods and may be subject to high fees. |
eCheck | A secure and reliable payment method. | It may take several days for funds to clear, leading to delays in deposits. |
InstaDebit | Widely accepted at Ontario casinos. | Using InstaDebit as a payment method may not let you deposit on certain casinos. |
iDebit | Fast deposits for Canadian players. | Some casinos may not offer withdrawals for iDebit. |
PayPal | A highly popular payment method around the world. | Only Ontario casinos support PayPal in Canada. |
βοΈ Legal Gambling in Ontario
Navigating the orderly Ontario market of casinos may seem daunting, but BonusFinder is here to provide answers and keep you informed of the latest web gambling regulations. See below for more details on the regulation rules of the online gambling industry.
π Where can I play?
A licensed Ontario online gambling site must verify that players are within the province’s borders. ON operators use geolocation technologies like GPS or IP addresses to determine the user’s location, ensuring they adhere to regulatory guidelines.
π Who is eligible to play on online casinos?
Since the AGCO regulates Ontario casinos, only local residents can register and play on these sites. Additionally, the legal gambling age is 19, meaning those who aren’t 19 or older and don’t reside in Ontario cannot play Ontario casino apps or platforms outside the province’s borders.
π Who can advertise online gambling?
Online casino marketing is limited in Ontario. Currently, only casinos with a license can advertise their business and bonuses. Due to regulations, affiliate pages like BonusFinder Canada cannot display casino bonuses, like welcome offers, deposit bonuses, or other promotions. If you see a webpage that is not a casino advertising such offers, they are breaking local laws. Note that this doesn’t apply to other Canadian online casinos.
π Do I need to pay taxes if I win at an online casino in Ontario?
No! Ontario online casino players don’t pay taxes on their online casino winnings, including sports betting, horse racing, lottery, and casino games. So, gambling winnings can be withdrawn without an additional tax fee.
Ontario has set a 20% revenue share for online casino gambling that applies to online casino operators. This is a significantly lower tax rate than the 55% that the by land-based casinos in the province pay. As a result, regulated online casinos generate significant revenue for Ontario.
π‘οΈ Regulated Ontario Gambling Market
Ontario is currently the only province in Canada with a regulated gambling market, and since April 2022, numerous casinos have launched dedicated Ontario casino pages. Ontarian gamers can access sites that pay taxes and follow strict regulations, including fair play and responsible gambling. The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario regulates and oversees all forms of gambling in the province, including online casinos.
π What is the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario
The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario is a regulatory agency responsible for regulating the alcohol, gaming, and horse racing industries in Ontario, Canada. The AGCO’s mandate is to ensure that these industries are conducted socially responsibly per provincial laws and regulations. The commission also works closely with law enforcement agencies to prevent and investigate illegal activities in these industries.
If you have concerns or questions about the regulations, you can contact the office of the AGCO. Below are their contact details.
Website | https://www.agco.ca/ |
Telephone | 416-326-8700 / 1-800-522-2876 (toll-free) |
Opening Hours | Mon-Fri 8:30 am-5:00 pm |
π Common Licensing-Related Phrases
The world of the licensed gambling market can seem confusing at first, especially when we’re all using specific words and phrases to describe how it all works. So, I’ve collected below some of the most commonly used terms that pop up when you read about online casinos in Ontario.
Regulated | The government oversees the gambling business in its jurisdictions. So, you might see terms like the regulated market or regulated online casinos. |
Licensed | A licensed online casino has been permitted to operate in a given jurisdiction by a government authority. AGCO grants iGaming Ontario licenses to online casinos in the province. |
iGaming Ontario | iGO works with the Government of Ontario and AGCO in establishing a controlled online casino market. If an online casino in Ontario is licensed, you can see the iGaming Ontario logo on their site. iGaming Ontario updated info in real time. |
Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario | AGCO is an Ontario provincial regulatory agency responsible for online gambling in Ontario. Legal casinos have an AGCO license. |
4th of April 2022 | The online gambling industry of Ontario became a regulated market on this date. |
OLG | Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation is a crown corporation owned by the government of Ontario, Canada. It is responsible for operating lotteries, casinos, and other gaming activities in the province of Ontario. |
π Why is the AGCO License Important
With Ontario’s safe, competitive market, you can have everything you need to enjoy online casinos within the province. Ontario casinos are run by professional companies that have invested in top-quality software platforms and apps to make playing exciting.
Here are some benefits of an AGCO license:
- Fairness: When you play on offshore sites, you can’t be sure if the casino games are fair or if the outcomes are rigged. Casino games in Ontario are regularly tested, unlike games on offshore casino sites. You can easily check the RTP of slot games and other casino games.
- Legal Resources: If an offshore company has your money and refuses to pay you what they owe, you have no legal protection. If a licensed Ontario casino refuses to pay you, contact AGCO.
- Responsible Gambling Options: Offshore companies have no incentive to take problem gambling seriously and may not provide adequate support for players struggling with addiction. Legal casinos have agreed to take gambling issues seriously and offer measures to prevent such habits.
- Short Banking Times: With limited banking systems, offshore gambling brands can take weeks or even months to process withdrawals. Ontario casinos can offer instant withdrawals thanks to the controlled market.
- You’re Funding Local Casinos: When you gamble online on offshore sites, profits leave Ontario, providing no benefit to the province. In contrast, authorized casinos pay taxes and employ people in our region.
- Great Customer Help: Unregulated casinos lack customer service and don’t have a valuable brand name to protect from bad publicity.
By choosing Ontario’s governed casinos, you can enjoy a safe and enjoyable gaming experience while supporting the local economy and community.
π How to Check if an Online Casino is Licensed
You can check for a few things to verify if an online casino has an AGCO license.
- Does the casino show the regulator’s logo or information about their regulatory status? All authorized brands must show the iGaming Ontario logo.
- Can you find a license number? Look for the regulator’s name and number, which legitimate online casinos will typically show prominently on their site.
- Is the gambling brand listed on the AGCO website? Visit the page and search for the online casino’s name to verify their legal status. The AGCO maintains a public registry of all legal gaming operators in the province, which you can access on the internet for free.
π¦ Responsible Gambling
Casino regulators in Ontario take responsible gambling seriously. All web casinos must have a safe and responsible gambling section and offer exclusion periods for all their players. In addition, the best online casinos have daily, weekly, and monthly deposit limits that players can set themselves. Most web gambling brands offer other limits players can take advantage of by contacting the customer support of their chosen casino.
Connex Ontario provides free and confidential health aid for anyone dealing with problem gambling, among other addictions. You can also call the Ontario Gambling Helpline for information about local problem gambling treatment resources.
π Connex Ontario Phone Number: 1-866-531-2600
π Ontario Gambling Helpline: 1-888-230-3505
Highlighting responsible gambling protocols is crucial to the legal Ontario online casino industry. Online casinos give you the chance to play casino games and have a good time, so if you’re getting addicted to playing on casinos online, don’t hesitate to contact one of the above helplines and check the list below.
- Note down how you’ve used and are using money on an online casino.
- Set a specific time frame when you play (e.g., you only play for an hour).
- Set a deposit limit on your Ontario account (daily, weekly, or monthly).
- If you know you have to stop gambling immediately, contact your web casino and request a self-exclusion time.
π Ontario Online Casino vs. Land Based Casino
While online casino platforms are great for playing thousands of online games, land-based casinos offer something that web gaming cannot: the classic gambling experience. So, land-based establishments can give you a different experience that might be worth trying.
Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Land-based Casinos in Ontario β Top 5
Even though at BonusFinder, we focus on the best online casinos, we wanted to mention some great retail casinos you can visit in Ontario. Land-based casinos, like legal online casinos, are regulated by the local government. Some of the must-see casinos are Caesars Casino, Fallsview Casino Resort, and other great casinos around Niagara Falls.
Caesars Windsor Casino
Casino Rama Resort
Niagara Fallsview Casino Resort
Casino Niagara
Shorelines Casino Belleville
β The Future of Gambling in Ontario
With the Ontario online casino market opening to competition, numerous new Ontario casino brands have emerged. However, in competitive markets, we typically witness a process of attrition whereby the market focuses on the top brands. This trend is evident in the US web market, where approximately 90% of bets are placed at only five online casinos.
Despite the intention of preventing Ontario gamblers from being exploited, Ontario’s gambling regulations presently prohibit local casinos from marketing their promotions through any platform other than their own websites. Unfortunately, this restriction has some negative consequences. One of the goals of regulating online casinos is to safeguard players, which means that individuals who are gaming at offshore or grey market casinos must be drawn towards regulated markets.
The advertising restrictions impede the ability of legal casinos to attract players, resulting in many individuals mistakenly believing that they are playing at a safe casino when they are, in fact, playing on an unlicensed website. The extent of future regulation will largely direct the future of legal Ontario casinos.
Furthermore, technological advancements will have a significant impact. We should anticipate much more immersive experiences as online casinos seek to replicate the atmosphere and ambiance of a live casino. Conversely, other casino games will likely diverge from being simply online adaptations of live casino games and instead evolve in a distinct direction to capitalize on improved casino technology. It will be fascinating to observe the developments that follow.
π One Year Anniversary of iGaming Ontario
Ontario’s regulated online gaming industry turned one year old in April 2023! There are currently 45 licensed casinos in Ontario and 5,000 certified casino games.
According to an Ipsos survey conducted in March, over 85% of Ontario online gamblers have played on regulated platforms in the last three months. This is a significant change, as around 70% of players were estimated to play on unregulated casinos before Ontario moved to license-based online gambling. The survey results show Ontario has successfully adopted a licensed market, and players are happy with the switch. However, around 19% of the players who play in regulated casinos also gamble in unregulated ones. It seems some brands can answer a demand that authorized sites fail to. In addition, 15% of players play solely on unpoliced sites. So, this begs the question: what will it take to make these players switch?
As the regulated iGaming market celebrates its first anniversary, we anticipate what’s next. For example, will the AGCO maintain the same online gaming restrictions for 2023, or will they try new ways to convert Ontario gamblers to licensed casinos? While the overall switch has succeeded, there seems to be much more to do!
β¨ Successful iGaming Market
iGaming Ontario reports that the new iGaming market in Ontario has brought high-paying jobs and a strong economic benefit to the province. The local market has been described internationally as a safe, legal, and competitive market that supports the economy. Recent studies also showcase how the licensed gambling model benefits all Ontarians, whether they play or not.
In addition, iGaming job positions in Ontario have been found to compensate 41% more in a year than the average jobs in the province. The employment base comprises professionals from science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, generally considered high-skilled professions. In addition to individuals, government revenue has increased as well. And it’s estimated that in 2031-32, it will grow just under $1.4 billion. The regulated iGaming industry of Ontario has positively supported residents and the government.
Last updated: 2023/11/29
β Ontario Online Casinos FAQ
- Are online casinos legal in Ontario?
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Yes. Online casinos are legal in Ontario. All players over 19 years old can place bets and gamble on Ontario gambling sites. However, to legally play on an online casino, Ontario regulations require that AGCO license the site.
- What are the best Ontario online casinos?
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The best Ontario casinos are LeoVegas, PartyCasino, and Jackpot City Casinos. These Ontario gambling sites are licensed and safe to use. For example, LeoVegas Ontario Casino has won multiple awards and is the best online casino for mobile gaming. The best Ontario online casino for new players is PartyCasino.
- How can you withdraw and deposit at Ontario online casinos?
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Ontario casinos offer all the Canadian-friendly payment methods so that you can use your preferred option. For example, the top Ontario online casinos accept Interac, PayPal, Visa, and MasterCard.
- Whatβs the legal age to bet online in Ontario?
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You must be at least 19 years old. While the legal gambling age is lower in other parts of Canada, you must be over 19 years old to gamble legally in Ontario. The minimum age applies to all kinds of gambling, including Ontario online casinos and sports betting.
- What are the best mobile casinos in Ontario?
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The best online casinos for mobile are LeoVegas and Wheelz. One of the best mobile apps is LeoVegas, and Wheelz has a well-designed mobile casino site. With a mobile device, you can play your favourite slots and table games on Ontario casino apps.
- Is online sports betting legal in Ontario?
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Yes, the sports betting market is regulated and legal in Ontario. Ontario bettors can make sports bets on NHL, NLB, horse racing, esports, and more! For example, you can also download Ontario sports betting apps and access the best sports betting markets at DraftKings Casino and BetMGM.