Online casino Ontario: the complete guide
When Ontario launched its regulated iGaming market in April 2022, it reshaped Canadian online gambling. For the first time, a Canadian province allowed private operators to legally offer online casino games, poker and sports betting to residents.
How iGaming Ontario works
iGaming Ontario is a subsidiary of the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO). It oversees the registration and operation of private online gambling sites in the province. Only operators that register with iGaming Ontario and meet AGCO's regulatory standards can legally offer online gambling to Ontario residents.
This is different from the rest of Canada, where online gambling regulation is less structured. Ontario's model is closer to regulated European markets like the UK or the Netherlands.
What regulation means for players
Playing at an iGaming Ontario registered operator gives you several protections. Your funds are held separately from the operator's business funds. Games are independently audited for fairness. The operator must offer responsible gambling tools including deposit limits, self-exclusion, and access to support services. If you have a dispute with an operator, AGCO provides a formal complaints process.
These protections do not exist at offshore sites that are not registered with iGaming Ontario. That does not mean offshore sites are necessarily unsafe, but you have less recourse if something goes wrong.
Who is licensed
As of 2026, dozens of operators are registered with iGaming Ontario, including many well-known international brands. The full list is available on the iGaming Ontario website. New operators continue to register as the market matures.
Game selection
Licensed Ontario casinos offer a wide range of games: slots, blackjack, roulette, baccarat, live dealer games and more. However, some games available at international sites may not be offered in Ontario because they have not been approved for the provincial market. The selection is growing as more game providers complete the approval process.
Bonuses in Ontario
Ontario has restrictions on bonus advertising. Operators cannot use bonuses to aggressively target players. Welcome bonuses are available but tend to be marketed more conservatively than at international sites. The terms still vary widely — check our bonus terms guide before claiming any offer.
For more on Ontario gambling, see our detailed Ontario gambling guide. For payment options, see the payment methods guide.