Selina Anne
Mentor
Last updated: 18 October 2025

Canadians have a higher propensity to gamble than people in many other countries with a similar demographic and cultural make-up. One of the reasons for this is that there are few taboos surrounding the pastime. While there are concerns about gambling addiction and associated harms, the vast majority of Canadians believe that people are personally responsible for their gambling habits and assert that there are adequate protections in place.

Nationwide differences – Ontarian success

Gambling is legal across the country, with each province regulating its own market, so there are variations as to precisely what residents can access legally. However, it is a form of entertainment that is enjoyed by the majority of the population and, when it comes to online casino games, Ontario is leading the way. It launched its commercial gambling market on April 4th, 2022, and has not looked back. iGamingOntario initially approved thirteen operators, and three years later, forty-nine licensed companies were operating eighty-three sites. That is over a seven-fold increase in opportunities for Ontarians looking to play.

 In its third year of operation, Ontario was responsible for CA$82.7 billion in wagers, resulting in GGR (gross gaming revenue) of $3.2 billion. As a percentage of these flows directly back into the province's coffers via fees and taxation, the authorities are pretty chuffed with what they have achieved. Heidi Reinhart, Chair of the Board of Directors, said,

"These results show Ontario is home to a truly dynamic igaming market with a strong roster of operators, and a world-class list of games available for players. With 49 operators offering 84 gaming sites, Ontario's regulated market continues to grow by offering a safer environment for Ontarians to play."

The launch has been so successful that other provinces are now following in Ontario's footsteps. Alberta has passed the necessary legislation to launch its version shortly. There have been delays in getting the market off the ground, as Alberta has the added complication of already having a 'state-run' online gambling site. The tricky thing for them is going to be getting players to come in from the grey market to the new licensed sites without cannibalizing their own platform's market.

Boom brings choice and risk

The important thing for players to understand is that the boom means there are incredible choices, no matter what kind of games you like to play. From slots to poker and roulette to live dealer blackjack, every game you can play at a bricks-and-mortar venue can now be found online. As with any rising market, there are always unscrupulous operators who want to trick people, to steal their data and their money. In addition, some operators are just 'shabby' and not as good as they should be. Players need to have their wits about them when looking for trusted online casinos in Canada and not just click on the first link that pops up in an internet search.

While there are loads of great fun, legitimate choices out there, there have recently been some downright criminal operations trying to fool customers across the country. Apps have been created that appear to be the virtual version of a well-known land-based casino. Adverts have appeared on social media encouraging players in the vicinity to visit the online version of the casino and play all the games on offer. However, it turns out that the casinos in question do not have online operating licenses. It is not the casinos that are perpetrating the fraud, but fraudsters hoping to cash in on the boom in online activity.

Fictitious sites for legitimate operators

The problem has been particularly prevalent on Meta's platforms, with ads running where logos, names and images of local casinos were lifted and used to advertise fake sites. The provincial lotter corporations had to send out communications to warn people about the ads. One of the ways in which the fraudsters were tricking people was by offering lucrative bonuses and promotions. Meta has now introduced new rules about online gambling advertising, and companies have to get written permission to run gambling ads. They have to provide evidence that the activities they are advertising are licensed by a regulator or established as lawful in the jurisdiction.

As the market has boomed, there have been some calls for stricter controls around gambling advertising, as there are concerns that young people in particular are being bombarded with messaging around gambling. While everyone can be excited about the opportunities, it is also important to never feel pressured and to take time when deciding how to spend your stake.

Don't be rushed

So the advice is to enjoy what the booming market offers and make the most of the competition out there. Unlike many online entertainment offerings, online gambling is still a very open market, and there are no major dominant operators controlling everything. This means that there is plenty of choice for Canadians who fancy a flutter. The thing to do is to find platforms and games that suit your playing style, preferences and budget. Take your time, relax and enjoy the ride.

Ask an expert

A great way to find what you are looking for is to follow the independent, expert advice offered by the folks at Casino.ca. As they are not tied to any single operator, they make genuine recommendations based on research and experience. While an influencer might be trying to persuade you to play on a particular site, the chances are they are being paid to 'influence' your decisions. Expert review sites do not operate like this and simply compare all the websites on a like-for-like basis.

They do not just believe the marketing spiel but check out licensing, security, payment options, payout times and plenty of other behind-the-scenes details. However, they are not just looking for compliance (like the regulators); they are also interested in how much fun there is to be had. They test out the bonuses on offer and make sure that they are working, and explain any limitations there might be around wagering requirements. The reviewers are always keen to find ways in which players can extend their bankroll and playing time by recommending genuinely good bonuses and finding free spins and free-to-play versions of the games.

Play the market

A wise player has the advantage in a booming market. There is plenty of healthy competition, and everyone wants their business. The knack is to hold your nerve and find the best online casino for you – not anyone else. 

Published: 18 October 2025 13:04