Online Casinos in Canada: A Guide for Canadian Gamblers by Ocelot Casino

What is a Canadian Online Casino?

A Canadian online casino is an online platform that allows Canadian players to enjoy various games of chance for real money. The online casino may be based in Canada or offshore, as long as it is licensed and regulated by a reputable authority and complies with the local laws and regulations.

The gambling site may offer a variety of games and services, such as slots, table games, video poker, live casino, sports betting, bingo, lottery, and more. They may also offer various bonuses and promotions, such as welcome bonuses, free spins, no deposit bonuses, reload bonuses, cashback bonuses, and more.

A Canadian online casino may also provide various payment methods, such as e-transfers, credit cards, e-wallets, prepaid cards, cryptocurrencies, and more. The gambling platform may also have a customer support team that is available 24/7 via phone, email, live chat, or social media.

Blacklisted Casinos

Blacklisted casinos are online casinos that are available in Canada and have a bad reputation which means that you should avoid at all costs. These casinos are blacklisted for various reasons, such as: fake or expired license, rigged or pirated games, unfair or hidden terms and conditions, slow or denied payments, poor or rude customer service, security breaches or data leaks, spam or malware issues, or negative reviews or complaints. Here are blacklisted groups and casinos with main reason, why they are blacklisted by Ocelot Casino:

How to Find a Reputable and Trustworthy Online Gambling Site

Finding a reputable and trustworthy online casino site can be challenging, but not impossible. There are some factors and criteria that you can use to evaluate and compare different online casinos and choose the best one for you. Some of the factors and criteria are:

Licensing and regulation

A reputable and trustworthy online gambling site should have a valid license from a recognized and respected authority, such as eCOGRA, MGA, UKGC, or AGCO. This means that the site has met the standards and requirements of the authority and is subject to regular audits and inspections.

You should be able to find the license information on the site’s homepage or footer, or in the terms and conditions section. You should also check if the site accepts players from your jurisdiction and complies with the local laws and regulations.

Security and privacy

The online casino site should use advanced encryption technology, such as SSL or TLS, to protect your personal and financial information from unauthorized access or theft. The site should also have a clear and transparent privacy policy that explains how they collect, use, store, and share your data, and what rights and options you have regarding your data. You should also look for security features such as firewalls, anti-virus software, and secure payment methods.

Fairness and randomness

Online casinos in Canada should use a random number generator (RNG) to ensure that the outcomes of the games are fair and unpredictable. The RNG should be tested and certified by an independent third-party agency, such as iTech Labs, GLI, or eCOGRA. The site should also display the payout percentages or return to player (RTP) rates of the games, which indicate how much money the games pay back to the players on average.

Games and services

A great online casino site should offer a wide range of games and services that suit your preferences and needs. The games should be provided by reputable and reliable software developers, such as Microgaming, NetEnt, Playtech, or Evolution Gaming. The games should also be compatible with different devices and platforms, such as desktops, laptops, smartphones, or tablets. The services should include customer support, bonuses and promotions, loyalty programs, responsible gambling tools, and banking options.

Reviews and ratings

A reputable and trustworthy online casino site should have positive reviews and ratings from other players and experts. You can find these reviews and ratings on various websites, forums, blogs, or social media platforms that specialize in online gambling. You can also check out our list of recommended online casino sites that have been reviewed and rated by our team of experts based on these factors and criteria.

Five Recommended Online Casinos in Canada

Here is our list of recommended online casino sites for Canadian players. These sites have been carefully selected and reviewed by our team of experts based on the factors and criteria we mentioned earlier. They are all licensed and regulated, secure and private, fair and random, and offer a variety of games and services. You can click on the links to visit the sites and learn more about them.

• Jackpot City Casino
• Spin Casino
• Ruby Fortune Casino
• Betway
• PlayOJO

1. Jackpot City Casino

Jackpot City Casino has been operating since 1998 and has a license from the Malta Gaming Authority. It offers over 600 games from Microgaming, including slots, table games, video poker, and live casino. It also has a generous welcome bonus of up to C$1,600, a loyalty program, and a 24/7 customer support team.

2. Spin Casino

Spin Casino was launched in 2019 and has a license from the Kahnawake Gaming Commission. It offers over 700 games from Microgaming and Evolution Gaming, including slots, table games, video poker, and live casino. It also has a welcome bonus of up to C$1,000, a loyalty club, and a 24/7 customer support team.

3. Ruby Fortune Casino

Ruby Fortune was established in 2003 and has a license from the Malta Gaming Authority. It offers over 500 games from Microgaming and Evolution Gaming, including slots, table games, video poker, and live casino. It also has a welcome bonus of up to C$750, a loyalty program, and a 24/7 customer support team.

4. Betway

Betway Casino was founded in 2006 and has a license from the UK Gambling Commission and the Malta Gaming Authority. It offers over 500 games from Microgaming and Evolution Gaming, including slots, table games, video poker, and live casino. It also has a welcome bonus of up to C$1,800, a loyalty program, and a 24/7 customer support team.

5. PlayOJO

PlayOJO was launched in 2017 and has a license from the UK Gambling Commission and the Malta Gaming Authority. It offers over 3,000 games from various software providers, including slots, table games, video poker, and live casino. It also has a unique bonus system that gives you free spins with no wagering requirements or limits on your winnings. You can also enjoy cashback on every bet you make, a loyalty program, and a 24/7 customer support team.

We hope you enjoy playing at these online gambling sites and have fun and safe gambling experiences. Remember to gamble responsibly and only bet what you can afford to lose. Good luck!

Online Gambling Regulations in Canada

Online gambling regulations in Canada are complex and vary by province or territory. According to the Criminal Code of Canada, operating an online gambling site within Canada is illegal unless it is authorized by a provincial or territorial government. However, the Criminal Code does not explicitly prohibit Canadians from playing at offshore online gambling sites that are licensed and regulated by foreign authorities. Therefore, Canadians can legally access online gambling sites that are based outside of Canada, as long as they comply with the laws and regulations of their jurisdiction of residence.

Some provinces have also launched their own online gambling platforms that are regulated by local authorities and offer a limited range of games and services to residents within their borders. For example, Ontario has recently introduced iGaming Ontario, a new internet gaming market that allows online gaming providers to obtain a license from the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) and offer their products to Ontarians. Other provinces that have their own online gambling sites include British Columbia, Quebec, Manitoba, Alberta, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island¹.

Online gambling regulations in Canada are constantly evolving and changing to keep up with the growing demand and innovation in the industry. It is important for online gambling operators and players to stay informed and updated on the latest developments and changes in the laws and regulations that affect them. It is also advisable to only play at reputable and trustworthy online gambling sites that are licensed and regulated by credible authorities and offer fair and secure gaming experiences.

What is the Legal Age of Gambling in Canada?

The legal age of gambling in Canada depends on the province or territory you are in. For most parts of Canada, the legal gambling age is 19 years old. However, in Quebec, Manitoba and Alberta, the legal gambling age is 18 years old. This means that you can enter brick and mortar casinos, play provincial lotteries, buy scratch tickets or gamble online if you are of legal age in your region. Make sure to have a valid government-issued ID with you when you gamble.

Is Gambling Income Taxable in Canada?

Generally speaking, gambling winnings are not taxable in Canada, unless you are a professional gambler or you earn interest on your winnings. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) considers gambling as a source of income only if it is your main source of income, you have a system or skill that gives you an advantage, you are motivated by profit, and you conduct your gambling activities in a business-like manner. If you fall into this category, you will have to file taxes on your gambling income and expenses. Otherwise, you can enjoy your winnings tax-free. However, if you gamble and win in the USA, you must declare it and pay taxes to the IRS.

Risks of Playing at Online Casinos

Playing at online casinos in Canada can be a fun and exciting way to enjoy various games of chance, but it also comes with some risks that you should be aware of. Some of the risks are:

Legal Risk

Although online gambling is not explicitly illegal in Canada, it is also not regulated by the federal government. Each province or territory has its own laws and regulations regarding online gambling, and some of them may prohibit or restrict certain types of games or activities.

For example, Ontario has recently introduced a licensing system for online casinos that operate within its borders, and other provinces may follow suit. If you play at an unlicensed or offshore casino, you may be breaking the law and face legal consequences.

Security Risk

Not all online casinos are trustworthy or reliable. Some of them may be fraudulent or scam sites that try to steal your personal or financial information, or cheat you out of your winnings.

To avoid this risk, you should always check the reputation and credentials of any Canadian online casino you want to play at. Look for proper licensing from reputable authorities such as eCOGRA or MGA, as well as safety measures such as encryption, firewalls, and anti-virus software.

Addiction Risk

Online gambling can be addictive and harmful for some people who have difficulty controlling their impulses or emotions. Online gambling can also be more accessible and convenient than land-based gambling, which can increase the temptation and frequency of playing.

If you have a gambling problem or are at risk of developing one, you should seek help from professional or self-help resources. You should also use responsible gambling tools such as limits, self-exclusion, and reality checks that are offered by most online casinos.

How Do I Know if I Have a Gambling Problem?

You may have a gambling problem if you:

• Spend more time or money on gambling than you can afford or intend to.
• Lie about your gambling habits to others or hide them from your family and friends.
• Feel restless, irritable, guilty, or depressed when you try to stop or reduce your gambling.
• Chase your losses by gambling more to try to win back what you have lost.
• Neglect your work, school, health, or personal responsibilities because of gambling.
• Borrow or steal money to gamble or to pay off your gambling debts.
• Gamble to escape from stress, boredom, loneliness, or other negative emotions.
• Have trouble controlling your gambling impulses or urges.
• Experience physical symptoms such as headaches, insomnia, fatigue, or stomach problems due to excessive gambling.

If you recognize any of these signs in yourself or someone you care about, you may want to seek help from a professional counselor, therapist, or support group. Gambling addiction is a serious condition that can affect your mental and physical health, your relationships, your finances, and your overall well-being. But it is treatable and recovery is possible. You don’t have to struggle alone. There are many resources and people who can help you overcome your gambling problem and regain control of your life.

Where Can I Find Help for My Gambling Problem?

There are different ways to find help for your gambling problem in Canada, depending on your needs and preferences. Some of the options are:

• Calling a toll-free gambling help phone number in your province or territory. These phone lines offer free and confidential counselling, information, and referrals to people with gambling problems and their families. You can find the phone number for your region here.
• Visiting an online resource such as Gambling Therapy, GamTalk, or RecoverMe. These websites offer practical advice, emotional support, self-help tools, and online communities for people affected by problem gambling. You can access these resources anytime and anywhere through your computer or mobile device.
• Seeking professional help from a gambling counsellor, therapist, or support group. These services can provide you with personalized and evidence-based treatment for your gambling problem. They can help you understand the causes and consequences of your gambling behavior, develop coping skills and strategies, and prevent relapse. You can find a gambling counsellor in your area or contact CAMH for more information on treatment options.
• Talking to your family, friends, or loved ones about your gambling problem. They can offer you emotional support, encouragement, and understanding. They can also help you find and access the resources you need to overcome your gambling problem. However, you should be respectful of their feelings and boundaries, and avoid blaming or lying to them about your gambling.

No matter which option you choose, remember that you are not alone and that help is available. Gambling addiction is a treatable condition that can be overcome with the right support and guidance. You can take the first step today by reaching out for help and starting your recovery journey.

Types of Online Casinos in Canada

Online casinos in Canada can be classified into different types, based on their features, platforms, and services. Some of the common types of online casinos in Canada are:

• Instant play casinos are online casinos that allow you to play their games directly on your web browser, without requiring you to download or install any software or app. Instant play casinos are convenient and accessible, as they can be played on any device and operating system, as long as you have a stable internet connection and a compatible browser. However, instant play casinos may have a limited game selection, lower graphics quality, and slower loading times than download casinos.
• Download casinos: are online casinos that require you to download and install their software or app on your device, in order to access and play their games. Download casinos may offer a better game selection, graphics quality, and loading times than instant play casinos, as they are optimized for the specific device and operating system. However, download casinos may take up more storage space, consume more data, and pose more security risks than instant play casinos.
• Live casinos: are online casinos that offer live dealer games, which are games that are streamed in real time from a studio or a land-based casino, and feature real human dealers and players. Live casinos aim to replicate the authentic and immersive experience of playing at a land-based casino, as you can interact with the dealers and other players, and see the cards, dice, and wheels being shuffled, dealt, and spun. Live casinos may offer a variety of live dealer games, such as live blackjack, live roulette, live baccarat, live poker, live sic bo, live craps, and more. However, live casinos may require a faster and more stable internet connection, a higher bandwidth, and a larger screen than regular online casinos.
• Mobile casinos: are online casinos that are designed and optimized for mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets. Mobile casinos allow you to play your favorite casino games on the go, anytime and anywhere, as long as you have a compatible device and a reliable internet connection. Mobile casinos may offer a range of mobile-friendly games, features, and bonuses, such as touch-screen controls, swipe gestures, portrait and landscape modes, push notifications, and more. However, mobile casinos may have a smaller game selection, lower graphics quality, and shorter battery life than desktop casinos.
• VR casinos: are online casinos that use virtual reality (VR) technology to create a realistic and immersive gambling environment, where you can see, hear, and feel the casino atmosphere, as if you were there in person. VR casinos require you to wear a VR headset and use VR controllers, which can transport you to a virtual casino world, where you can explore, interact, and play various casino games. VR casinos may offer a unique and exciting gambling experience, as you can enjoy the sights, sounds, and sensations of a real casino, without leaving your home. However, VR casinos may also require a high-end device, a powerful internet connection, and a large space, and may cause motion sickness, eye strain, and fatigue.

Minimum Deposit Casinos in Canada

Minimum deposit casinos are online casinos that allow you to make a deposit and play their games with a low amount of money, such as $1, $5, $10, or $20. Minimum deposit casinos are ideal for players who have a limited budget, who want to try out a new online casino, or who want to play for fun without risking too much money. Minimum deposit casinos may also offer some bonuses and promotions for low depositors, such as free spins, match bonuses, or cashback.

However, minimum deposit casinos may also have some drawbacks and limitations, such as higher wagering requirements, lower bonus amounts, fewer payment options, and lower withdrawal limits. Therefore, it is important for you to check the terms and conditions of the online casino and the bonus before you make a minimum deposit and play. Here are some examples of minimum deposit casinos in Canada, and what they offer:

Software Providers at Canada Casinos

• Microgaming: is one of the oldest and most renowned software providers in the industry, as it was founded in 1994 and launched the first online casino. Microgaming is known for its innovation, quality, and diversity, as it offers over 800 games, including some of the most popular and iconic games, such as Mega Moolah, Immortal Romance, Thunderstruck II, and more. Microgaming also holds the Guinness World Record for the largest online slot jackpot, which was $20,062,600 in 2015.
• NetEnt: is one of the most successful and influential software providers in the industry, as it was founded in 1996 and has won multiple awards and accolades. NetEnt is known for its creativity, excellence, and entertainment, as it offers over 200 games, including some of the most innovative and captivating games, such as Starburst, Gonzo’s Quest, Dead or Alive, and more. NetEnt also offers some of the best live dealer games, such as Live Roulette, Live Blackjack, and Live Casino Hold’em.
• Play’n GO: is one of the most dynamic and versatile software providers in the industry, as it was founded in 2005 and has expanded to multiple markets and jurisdictions. Play’n GO is known for its originality, diversity, and fun, as it offers over 150 games, including some of the most unique and colorful games, such as Book of Dead, Reactoonz, Moon Princess, and more. Play’n GO also offers some of the best mobile games, as it uses HTML5 technology and supports all devices and platforms.
• Evolution Gaming: is one of the most dominant and reputable software providers in the industry, as it was founded in 2006 and has specialized in live dealer games. Evolution Gaming is known for its professionalism, realism, and variety, as it offers over 100 live dealer games, including some of the most diverse and immersive games, such as Live Lightning Roulette, Live Dream Catcher, Live Monopoly, and more. Evolution Gaming also offers some of the best live game shows, such as Live Deal or No Deal, Live Crazy Time, and Live Mega Ball.
• Pragmatic Play: is one of the most prolific and progressive software providers in the industry, as it was founded in 2015 and has released over 200 games. Pragmatic Play is known for its simplicity, speed, and mobile-friendliness, as it offers games that are easy to play, fast to load, and compatible with all devices and platforms. Pragmatic Play also offers games that are diverse and appealing, such as Wolf Gold, The Dog House, Mustang Gold, and more. Pragmatic Play also offers some of the best bingo and scratch card games, such as Bingo Blast, Sweet Bonanza, and Hot Safari.

How to Sign Up for a Canadian Online Gambling Site

Signing up for an online gambling site is usually a simple and straightforward process. Here are the common steps you need to follow:

1. Choose an online gambling site that suits your preferences and needs. You can use our list of recommended sites or do your own research based on the factors and criteria we discussed earlier.
2. Visit the site and click on the sign up or register button. You will be redirected to a registration form where you need to provide some basic information, such as your name, email address, phone number, date of birth, and country of residence. You may also need to create a username and password for your account.
3. Verify your identity and age. Some online gambling sites may require you to verify your identity and age before you can access their games and services. This is to ensure that you are of legal gambling age and to prevent fraud and money laundering. You may need to upload a copy of your government-issued ID, such as a passport or driver’s license, or use other verification methods, such as SMS or email confirmation.
4. Claim your welcome bonus. Some online gambling sites may offer you a welcome bonus when you sign up for the first time. This is a reward that gives you extra money or free spins to play with. To claim your welcome bonus, you may need to enter a bonus code, make a minimum deposit, or meet other conditions. Make sure to read the terms and conditions of the bonus carefully before you claim it.
5. Make your first deposit. To start playing for real money, you will need to make your first deposit into your account. You can choose from various payment methods, such as credit cards, debit cards, e-wallets, prepaid cards, bank transfers, or cryptocurrencies. You should choose a payment method that is convenient, secure, and fast for you. You should also check the minimum and maximum deposit limits, fees, and processing times of each payment method.
6. Start playing. Once you have completed the registration process and made your first deposit, you can start playing your favorite games at the online gambling site. You can choose from various categories of games, such as slots, table games, video poker, or live casino. You can also explore the other features and services of the site, such as customer support, bonuses and promotions, loyalty program, responsible gambling tools, and banking options.

That’s how you sign up for an online gambling site. It’s easy and fun. We hope you have a great time playing at your chosen site and win some money along the way. Remember to gamble responsibly and only bet what you can afford to lose.

Land-based Casinos vs Online Casinos in Canada

Land-based casinos and online casinos are two different ways of enjoying gambling in Canada, and each of them has its own pros and cons. Here is a table that compares and contrasts the main aspects of land-based casinos and online casinos in Canada:

How do I Choose the Right Online Casino in Canada

Choosing the right online casino in Canada can be a daunting and confusing task, as there are hundreds of online casinos available, and each of them has its own advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, it is important to know how to choose the right online casino in Canada, and what to look for and avoid.

Here are some tips on how to choose the right online casino in Canada:

• Do your research: before you sign up and play at any online casino, you should always do your research and gather as much information as possible about the online casino, such as its license, regulation, reputation, reviews, games, bonuses, payouts, payment options, customer service, and more. You should also compare and contrast different online casinos, and see which one suits your preferences and needs the best.
• Check the license and regulation: one of the most important factors to consider when choosing an online casino is the license and regulation, which are the official credentials that prove that the online casino is authorized and supervised by a reputable authority. A license and regulation also ensure that the online casino follows the rules and standards of the authority, such as fair gaming, responsible gambling, and player protection. Therefore should you always check the license and regulation of the online casino, and make sure that they are valid and current.
• Check the reputation and reviews: another important factor to consider when choosing an online casino is the reputation and reviews, which are the collective opinions and feedbacks of the online casino’s customers, partners, and critics, which reflect the quality and reliability of the online casino. A reputation and reviews can also reveal the strengths and weaknesses of the online casino, such as its game selection, bonuses, payouts, customer service, and more. You should always check the reputation and reviews of the online casino, and make sure that they are positive and consistent.
• Check the game selection and software providers: You should always check the game selection and software providers of the online casino, and make sure that they are diverse and appealing, and that they include games from reputable and trusted software providers, such as Microgaming, NetEnt, Play’n GO, Evolution Gaming, and more.
• Check the bonuses and promotions:You should always check the bonuses and promotions of the online casino, and make sure that they are generous and reasonable, and that they suit your budget and gambling style. You should also read the bonus terms and conditions carefully, and understand what they entail, such as the wagering requirements, the expiry date, the game restrictions, the maximum bet limit, the minimum deposit amount, and the withdrawal limit.
• Check the payouts and payment options: You should always check the payouts and payment options of the online casino, and make sure that they are high and fast, and that they include various and convenient payment options, such as credit cards, debit cards, e-wallets, prepaid cards, bank transfers, or cryptocurrencies.
• Check the customer service and support: You should always check the customer service and support of the online casino, and make sure that they are available and accessible, and that they include various and convenient contact options, such as email, phone, live chat, or social media.