When someone wants to play at an online gambling site in Canada, the main question I see regards the legality of gambling in the country of Maple syrup. It’s a legitimate question, considering that engaging in illegal gambling can cost money and lead to some serious jail time.
However, I can’t answer this question with a simple yes or no, because the situation is complex. In short, the answer would be: “Yes, most of the time, but it depends on several factors.” From this nebulous statement, I believe it’s mandatory to develop and explain why there’s no clear-cut answer.
Access to Online Casinos Depend On Your Location
Each province has different regulations when it comes to online gambling. The sites you and I can play at may differ depending on where you reside. For this very reason, professional reviewers such as CasinoMeister Canada offer listings of online gambling sites such as Bet365, Play Ojo and Lotto Mart, to cite just three examples of gambling sites you can visit and play based on your location. Here’s a deeper look at the different regulations.
- Alberta: Alberta is known for its gambling venues, horse racing turfs, and lotteries. I’ve been there, it’s some sight to behold. Gambling has been well-regulated for a long time, so when online gambling sites arrived they decided to make it legal with “Play Alberta”. It’s a site regulated by the government. Playing outside this site isn’t authorised, and anyone over 18 years old can start playing.
- British Columbia: I know the vastness of British Columbia makes it challenging to regulate, but the approach here is fitting. There are numerous forms of gambling available there once you’re 19. Instead of controlling everything, gambling is regulated by provincial authorities directly. Although, I understand it can be frustrating depending on the province you live in. Thankfully, there are beautiful ski resorts in BC to enjoy.
- Nova Scotia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, Saskatchewan: In these parts of Canada gambling is generally tolerated with varying rules. I can tell you, Ontario has the most strict rules with Ontario licenses regulating online gambling sites you can access. Unlike Alberta, it’s possible to choose from several platforms as well, granting more possibilities to players.
- Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland, and Labrador: These four regions of Canada are in what I can only refer to as the “grey area” of Canadian law. Starting from 19 years old, people can engage with international gambling sites without worrying about any legal issues.
- Yukon, Nunavut, and Northwest Territories: For the Northwest Territories, Yukon, and Nunavut, the gambling status is similar to the previous places I described and fall into the same “grey area”. It means that iGamers can play at international sites with a licence. Anyone can start gambling once they’re 19 years old over there.
What Canadian Federal Authorities Say About Online Gambling: The Grey Area Explained
Federal Canadian law doesn’t explicitly forbid online gambling. However, the Canadian Criminal Code states that without a “lawful excuse” (so, a licence), commits an offence, punishable with up to two years of imprisonment according to article R.S.C., 1985, c. C-46. Federal authorities have created a legal framework, but lets each province decide on the actual approach to gambling, online and physical. In my opinion, it’s the best way to go about it, due to Canada’s history. Each province has different views on the matter, and it avoids unnecessary internal conflicts.
Some provinces have a history of gambling dating back before the first settlers, while others still have a more conservative view on gambling and how it should be regulated. In general, though, I observed that in most parts of Canada there was a “grey area”.
Here’s how I can define this “grey area”. Most Canadian iGamers can engage with international online gambling sites, as long as they have an international licence and play. As long as they’re of legal age to gamble in their area, there will be zero legal consequences on playing there and receiving their winnings. That’s why online gambling in Canada generates massive amounts yearly, with $3.69 billion in 2023, the majority coming from online activities.
I also need to mention that the international gambling sites must be based offshore to be accessible. An international gambling site with an operator based in Canada (who would do that, tax-wise?) operating without a Canadian licence is considered illegal. Thankfully, it’s not an issue, since most international online gambling sites will be based in more fiscally advantageous countries.
Factors To Consider With International Casinos
Even if there are no consequences for playing at offshore gambling sites in your area, I still recommend choosing a trustworthy online gambling sites. Players must ensure there’s a licence, that the site is secure with the latest SSL encryption protocols, and that the operator is praised by users and professionals.
If that’s something you don’t want to think about, it’s still possible to plan your trip to Vancouver and spare time to visit one of the many gorgeous land-based resorts in the area. This way you can get unique vacations and still enjoy the luxurious gambling experience of the best Canadian venues. It’s more expensive, but I believe it’s an experience every player should try at least once in their lifetime.