Best Online Casinos that Accept Players from Canada

General Overview

Within its vast domains and scenery, the second-largest country in the world is a haven for different types of exciting games. Known for its welcoming spirit, Canada is home to different types of gambling. Although, regulations differ, depending on the province or territory you find yourself in. From land-based casinos to online gambling in Canada, players are free to enjoy games as much as they want so far they are not engaging in any form of activity that is deemed illegal. Canadians have a reputation for engaging in some form of gambling at any point in time. In 2000, a study carried out showed that about 70% of the population have engaged in some form of gambling activity. To the extent that, some players have even travelled down from the United States of America to escape certain gambling laws. Further study in 2002 showed that between 75% and 85% of Canadians have gambled either for charity or their gains.

A brief history of gambling in Canada

Since the time of John Cabot's voyage to the shores of Canada is 1497, the natives engaged in playing cards which later stemmed into the early versions of games like faro, and then poker and blackjack. Similarly to most countries at that time, Canadians also engaged in Dice betting before gaming evolved into what it is today.  In the late 1800s, the government started regulating gambling and added some laws that would curb some excessed in the game. However, in 1970 following constant protest from the people, the government gave each province the power to make and enact gambling laws.  In the present day, rules and regulations have been left in the hands of the major actors in the gambling scene with the provincial governments playing an oversight role. 

Online Gambling Law in Canada

As said earlier, gambling laws in Canada vary from province to province, but most of the laws permit the people to gamble without worrying about breaking any law so far you are not engaging in any form of criminal activity. In the late 1800s when the Canadian Criminal Code was introduced, it included statutes that prohibited some forms of gambling but it was still permissible. In 1910, the code was amended to allow pari-mutuel betting for those engaging in horse racing and related games were allowed for non-profit purposes. 

In 1970, the Criminal Code of Canada was amended again, giving provinces the power to establish and enact gambling laws. The first brick and mortar casino was built in Winnipeg in 1989 from them more houses followed throughout other provinces. As it is popularly said the government of Canada views gambling as a victimless crime and encourages his citizens to gamble responsibly. 

Payment Options in Canada

Players from Canada are presented with a wide choice of payment options. You can make payments through different channels such as  Credit Card, E-Wallets, Bank Transfer, Prepaid Cards, Mobile Payments and Instant Banking with different options. One thing to consider when playing from Canada is the government’s acceptance of gambling. 

Here are some of the popular payment methods available in Canada: 

EcoPayz, MuchBetter, WebMoney, Jeton, SticPay, Paysafecard, Vanilla Prepaid, Revolut, AstroPay, Flexepin, Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Etherium, Ripple, Litecoin, Bitcoin Gold, zCash, Lisk, Dash, Tron, iDebit, Interac Online/Interac e-Transfers, eCheck, Instadebit, Citadel and InPay.

License Commission in Canada

Since gambling is regulated province-by-province basis, intending operators need to specifically apply for a license from a particular province they wish to operate, here are the licenses commission from the 10 provinces and 3 territories in Canada.

• Alberta: Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission (AGLC)

• British Columbia: Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch of the Ministry of Finance.

• Manitoba: Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Authority of Manitoba.

• New Brunswick: Gaming Control Branch of the Department of Public Safety.

• Newfoundland and Labrador: Consumer Affairs Division, Consumer and Commercial Affairs Branch of Service NL.

• Nova Scotia: Alcohol, Gaming, Fuel and Tobacco Division of Service.

• Ontario: Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO)

• Prince Edward Island: Prince Edward Island Lotteries Commission; Consumer Services section of the Department of Environment, Labour and Justice.

• Quebec: Regie des alcoools, des courses et des jeux 

• Saskatchewan: Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority (SLGA)

Territories

• Northwest Territory: Department of Municipal and Community Affairs.

• Nunavut Territory: Consumer Affairs, Department of Community and Government Services.

• Yukon Territory: Professional Licensing and Regulatory Affairs Branch of the Department of Community Services. 

Helplines for Problem Gamblers

Canada provides protection and treatment to people suffering from the negative effects of gambling through the National Council on Problem Gambling. The council has a local network that caters for over 28 call centres across the country. They can be reached via phone on 1-800-522-4700 on a 24/7 basis.

Canada Online Casino FAQs

What is the legal age for Gambling in Canada?

Generally, the legal age for gambling in Canada is 19 years, however, some provinces have different rules guiding that, Alberta, Manitoba and Quebec allow 18 years old to gamble. 

Are US citizens allowed to gamble online in Canada?

Not likely. Most online casinos require verification when registering. It is not advisable for U.S. citizens to engage in online gambling in Canada due to jurisdictions.

How do I report illegal gambling in Canada?

Each province has a hotline where you can report any form of illegal gambling. Generally, you can contact relevant authorities through the licenses commission you live in.

How do I get a gambling license in Canada? 

Getting a gambling license in Canada has to be done through the listed license commissions in the provinces and territories. Each of which has its requirements for operators to fulfil. 

What are the best online casinos for players in Canada?

Based on the services provided, Kingbilly Casino,  Betsson Casino, Loki Casino, BitStarz Casino, among others are the best casinos for players in Canada. 

Do online casinos offer welcome bonuses to players from Canada? 

Casinos in and outside the Canadian provinces and territories offer players welcome bonuses and other exciting offers to make their gaming experience worthwhile.