Canada: Regulatory Overview of the Growing Online Gambling Market

[RevenueLab]

The iGaming landscape in Canada has changed significantly since the end of the government monopoly. Online gambling legality is determined by provinces, with federal laws banning unlicensed operators. This allows provinces to create their own regulations, resulting in diverse gambling activities. Adhering to provincial rules is crucial for legal online gambling.

The Canadian iGaming sector includes both licensed, regulated areas and unregulated sectors, which pose risks to security, game fairness, and consumer protection.

Registration vs. Licensing in Canadian Gambling

In Canada, only approved charitable organizations and small ventures can obtain gambling licenses, excluding private individuals and corporations.

For online gambling in permitted provinces, companies must register with the provincial regulator. While provinces oversee registration, licensing is managed at the state level, with both processes being quite similar.

Regulations of Gambling in Canada

Online casinos are regulated by the Criminal Code, but provinces can create their own laws. In 2022, Ontario became the first province to legalize iGaming, requiring operators to register with AGCO and work with iGaming Ontario. Only individuals aged 19 and older can participate, and services are limited to the province.

The Kahnawake Gaming Commission (KGC), established in 1999, regulates all gambling activities in its area, focusing on consumer protection and requiring operators to be transparent in their finances. Kahnawake has emerged as a significant player in the global gambling industry.

Any breach of regulations could result in severe repercussions for company executives, potentially leading to criminal charges.

Promotion of Gambling

Canada has strict regulations for online gambling advertising to prevent misleading content and protect minors. Starting in 2024, celebrity involvement in promotions will be restricted, and promoting bonuses on unauthorized sites will be illegal.

Conclusion

Engaging in iGaming activities in Canada is permissible under the condition that all regulations mandated by regulatory authorities are adhered to. Collaborators are required to endorse exclusively reputable operators that guarantee fair gameplay and safeguard user data.

Authored by the RevenueLab experts, this piece showcases the in-depth knowledge and expertise of our team in the realm of gaming. Drawing on our vast experience across diverse regions and traffic channels, RevenueLab is dedicated to uncovering lucrative opportunities and promotions that guarantee optimal conversion rates for your audience.