A Smart Guide to Canadian Gambling Regulations 2024

Gambling has been a favored activity in Canada from the time early settlers introduced it. As the nation and its regions evolved, Canada has endeavored to grant its residents the liberty to engage in wagering.

This liberal approach has fueled the rise of everything from brick-and-mortar casinos to the current surge in online gaming, with even government-operated websites entering the fray.
In this context, we’ll introduce a smart guide to Canadian gambling regulations 2024.

Our comprehensive content covers all aspects that a Canadian bettor should be familiar with, including laws, online casino choices, tax requirements, and a dictionary of betting terminology.

Understanding Canada's wagering legality

The origins of wagering in Canada trace back to its indigenous people, who were known to wager with sticks in various games. The introduction of playing cards in 1497 by John Cabot’s expedition marked the inception of early card games that would evolve into modern poker and blackjack.

Although always allowed, it wasn't until the late 19th century that gambling came under governmental review, leading to modest limitations and regulations. The public's continued desire for gaming freedom prompted further legal evolution. By 1970, the decision-making power regarding betting was delegated to individual provinces.

This autonomy has enabled many Canadians to establish and patronize land-based casinos according to their preferences. Nowadays, the approach is largely deregulated, with individuals largely free to partake as they wish, while provinces provide occasional regulatory oversight and engage in the market.

How do current laws regulate online gambling in Canada?

Significant changes to the Criminal Code in 1970 transferred the regulatory authority of bookmaking to the provincial governments. This shift paved the way for the opening of Canada's first casino in Winnipeg in 1989, with others soon appearing in Manitoba, Quebec, Ontario, Saskatchewan, and Nova Scotia.
Prior to the establishment of casinos, racetracks had already been a fixture, growing in popularity and becoming a favored betting venue across the country.

Beyond live casinos and racetracks, several provinces have sanctioned the use of video lottery terminals, contributing to governmental revenue streams. Lotteries are widespread across the nation, and wagering is recognized as a means of raising funds for charitable causes, religious organizations, and governmental bodies alike.

The Canadian government does not typically perceive illegal bookmaking as a significant threat, considering it a victimless crime. Wagering is broadly seen as an acceptable activity, with the onus on individuals to gamble responsibly for recreation.

Regulation of the gaming sector in Canada

The supervision of Canada's gaming sector is primarily under the purview of the Canadian Gaming Association (CGA). This entity is tasked with overseeing the industry, offering insights, and addressing any significant concerns that emerge. It engages in dialogue with the public, governmental bodies, and the press to ensure a thorough understanding of the industry and to maintain its integrity.

The responsibility for creating and implementing laws related to casinos, online gaming, sports betting, and similar ventures falls to the individual provinces like we are seeing with Ontario or Alberta.

Understanding legal gambling in Canada

Canadians have the liberty to partake in various forms of gambling, including live poker and online casinos, without facing any legal consequences. Canada's reputation as a gaming-friendly nation has attracted numerous online poker players from the United States, where access to many international gaming websites is restricted. This influx has contributed to Canada's emergence as one of the world's rapidly expanding online poker markets.

The age at which individuals can engage in bookmaking varies by province, with some allowing it at 18 and others setting the age limit at 19. Additionally, several provinces have launched their own iGaming platforms, aiming to capitalize on the revenue potential and offer alternatives to international sites.
However, provincial governments have generally refrained from imposing significant restrictions on players or limiting their choice of iGaming platforms.

Gambling participation among Canadians

Research conducted in 2000 revealed that over 70% of Canadians participated in bookmaking activities annually. A subsequent survey in 2002 found that 18.9 million Canadians engaged in wagering, predominantly in lotteries and occasional games of chance.
More recent studies about the evolution of online slot and the Canadian Gambling landscape (2024) indicate that between 75% and 85% of the Canadian population engages in some form of betting, ranging from charitable events to online poker and other games. Hazarding participation rates vary across provinces, with some regions reporting higher activity levels than others.

Access to international online casinos for Canadians

Canadian players are not prohibited by any specific legislation from accessing and playing on international online betting sites. These offshore platforms often target the Canadian market, recognizing its potential due to the high participation in games like online poker, baccarat, slots, and others.

Tax Rules on wagering earnings in Canada

The obligation for Canadians to pay taxes largely hinges on whether they consider Canada their main home and whether they engage in poker as a profession or a leisure activity. It's advisable for players to consult with a local tax lawyer or expert since tax regulations can vary by province. Typically, gamblers are required to pay taxes on their earnings, though the exact amount can differ.

Final thoughts

In this smart guide to Canadian gambling regulations 2024, we learned that Canada embraces a permissive stance towards betting, with provinces autonomously regulating the industry as they see fit. From casinos and lotteries to charity and online betting, Canadians enjoy ample opportunities to wager legally.

The Canadian Gaming Association oversees the integrity of the sector while deferring legislation to regional governments. Tax obligations on bookmaking winnings vary but players are generally expected to report earnings, especially if betting constitutes their profession. With 75-85% of Canadians engaging in some form of wagering annually, the market remains robust and continues evolving to meet consumer demands across the nation.