Understanding the Laws of Legal Gambling in Canada

If you are even curious about online gambling, you probably recognize that gambling laws are either strict, welcoming, or even nonexistent in many parts of the world. Those options cover most of the possibilities, but where do things stand for those living in Canada? Let's see what we can find out.

Is it legal to gamble in Canada?

Gambling of all kinds is regulated in Canada. This means there are strict regulations pertaining to all forms of gambling, from casinos to lotteries. Regulation is down to the provincial government, so it depends where you live in Canada as to whether you're able to legally gamble in that province.

Where is gambling legal in Canada?

We can provide you with a list here, but it is a necessarily short list of one - Ontario. This is the only available province just now where residents can gamble on the internet.

Here's the deal - Canadians can play at casinos licensed elsewhere

Some gambling laws have loopholes allowing other possibilities, and that's the case for Canadians. The law typically does not permit online casinos to operate, in much the same way sportsbooks cannot take wagers online in the country.

However, there is nothing to state that Canadians are barred from using casinos that are licensed in other locations. Indeed, this is what many Canadians who are interested in online casino play do to get around the issue.

How to find out the situation where you live

Of course, as is true of so many other locations, the specific laws or rules in place can vary depending on which Canadian province you live in. Therefore, we suggest checking the laws and regulations for that province when you can. Things can change quickly, with lots of queries popping up when they do. It's reassuring, though, to see that offshore casinos and similar sites can be accessed by players in Canada. It could be the only way to play for a while.

If you do take this route, make sure you do your research to determine whether you have found a trustworthy site to use. You don't want to use one that hasn't got good reviews (something we can provide you with here).