Best Online Casinos Ontario 2024


Regulated online casinos have arrived in Ontario! With the province's gaming laws evolving, you’re just a click away from enjoying slots and table games. Since 2022, you can access these online casinos via your PC or smartphone. Dive into the best casino apps to try out the latest progressive jackpots or immerse yourself in live casino games.

One of the standout features of online casinos is their extensive range of games, from slots to table games. According to the new regulations by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO), all games featured at licensed Ontario online casinos must have a return-to-player (RTP) percentage—or ‘win rate’—of at least 85%. This RTP indicates the expected amount of money a game will return to a player over time. With a minimum win rate of 85%, you have a solid chance of regular payouts.

Are Canadian casinos legal to play at?

Online casinos are legal in Canada, but each province has the authority to decide whether to permit casino gambling. Canadian law prohibits online casinos from operating within the country's borders unless they hold a license from a local regulatory authority.

One of the most prominent regulatory bodies is the Kahnawake Gaming Commission, located in Quebec. Ontario has recently become a regulated market, with the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) and its subsidiary, iGaming Ontario (iGO), now overseeing all legal online casinos in the province.

Regulated casinos in Ontario will prominently display the iGO logo, indicating their contractual agreement with iGO to ensure safer and fairer gambling practices, in compliance with AGCO standards.

We recommend playing only at Ontario online gambling sites regulated by the appropriate authority to ensure a safe and fair gambling experience. These regulated Canadian casinos must adhere to the rules and regulations set by the licensing body, providing players with recourse if they fail to comply.

Ontario Online Gambling Laws & Regulations

Ontario's online gambling laws began evolving in August 2021 with the legalization of single-event betting under the Canadian Criminal Code. This marked a significant first step, but the true expansion of the iGaming industry occurred on April 4, 2022, when the AGCO implemented new regulations to legalize online gambling in the province.

Initially, 14 operators were authorized to operate in Ontario. Today, over 60 regulated gambling sites, including prominent names like JackpotCity Casino and Spin Casino, are available. Additionally, the Government of Ontario runs the only state-operated platform, the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG), which is also responsible for managing land-based gaming in the province.

What has changed since iGaming laws launched in Ontario?

Ontario’s new regulatory framework has significantly impacted operators and third parties. To safeguard players and encourage responsible gambling, the AGCO has banned media outlets and affiliate sites from advertising bonuses and promotions. Consequently, gamblers in Ontario must now register at an online casino and opt-in to receive promotional information.

These new gambling regulations also introduced geolocation services, anti-money laundering programs, game integrity policies, and responsible gambling tools, such as limit-setting features and self-exclusion programs. These measures aim to help players make safer choices online.

How do online casinos use geolocation?

To guarantee regulatory compliance and restrict access to Ontario's iGaming services to local players only, gambling operators utilize geolocation technology to monitor the location of your PC or smartphone.

Are online casino winnings taxed?

Ontarians are not required to pay taxes on gambling winnings, as these are classified as 'windfall' gains under Canadian tax laws. Taxes are only applicable if gambling is your primary source of income.

Is sports betting legal in Ontario?

On August 27, 2021, the federal government enacted Bill C-218, legalizing single-game betting in Canada. This was a significant development, as previously Canadians could only place sports bets through parlays (a series of individual wagers combined into a single bet) or with offshore gaming operators.

Now, you can legally bet on a variety of sports at Ontario casinos, from ice hockey and soccer to horse racing and football. Additionally, online sportsbooks have proliferated rapidly since the legalization of single-game betting. For more information on the top sportsbooks in the province, visit our Ontario sports betting guide.

How to Check an Online Casino’s License

Please take the following actions to make sure a casino website is legitimate in Ontario and has the appropriate AGCO license:

  1. Check for the regulator’s logo or information about their regulatory status. All authorized brands must display the iGaming Ontario logo prominently.
  2. Look for a license number. Legitimate online casinos will typically display the regulator’s name and license number clearly on their site.
  3. Verify the gambling brand on the AGCO website. Visit the AGCO page and search for the casino’s name to confirm its legal status. The AGCO maintains a public registry of all legal gaming operators in Ontario, accessible online for free.

Top Land-Based Casinos in Ontario

While online casinos have surged in popularity, Ontario's land-based casinos remain a favourite destination for gamblers. Here are three of the finest casinos in Ontario:

Fallsview Casino Resort

Situated with a breathtaking view of the iconic Horseshoe Falls, Fallsview Casino Resort stands as the largest casino in Canada. This impressive $1 billion complex boasts over 3,500 slot machines, 130 gaming tables, and a state-of-the-art theatre. Additionally, guests can enjoy an indoor pool, a spa, a shopping centre, and 372 luxurious hotel rooms.

Address: 6380 Fallsview Blvd, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 3W6, Canada

Tel: (888) 325-5788

Caesars Windsor Casino

Originally named Casino Windsor, Caesars Windsor holds the distinction of being Ontario's first casino, established in 1994. Renowned as a player's payout paradise, it boasts the highest posted limits in both Ontario and the Detroit area. Guests can explore an impressive array of 2,230 slot machines, 85 table games, and a full-service retail sportsbook, making Caesars Windsor a premier gaming destination.

Address: 377 Riverside Dr E, Windsor, ON N9A 7H7, Canada

Tel: (800) 991-7777

Gateway Casinos Thunder Bay

Although Gateway Casinos is relatively small, it excels at providing top-notch entertainment. Whether you're a fan of spinning the reels or testing your luck at the dealer's table, Gateway Casinos offers an exhilarating experience with over 450 slot machines, classic table games, and electronic tables.

Address: 50 Cumberland St., Thunder Bay, ON P7B 5L4, Canada

Tel: (807) 766-7900

Online Sports Betting in Ontario

Single-game sports betting became legal in Ontario in 2021. Since April 4, 2022, you can place bets online through commercial operators, not just the state-run gambling site, Prolint+. This allows you to wager on all North American sports and major international leagues. Explore our comprehensive guide to sports betting in Ontario for more details.

Other Forms of Online Gambling  

The new laws in Ontario now permit online betting on a variety of activities. You can legally play poker and bet on sports online. Specifically, the new iGaming legislation allows single-game wagers at online and mobile sportsbooks. Online lottery sales through OLG remain legal.

However, the new Ontario gaming law does not yet apply to daily fantasy sports (DFS). As a result, major operators like FanDuel and DraftKings withdrew from Ontario in April 2022 to focus on their sportsbooks.

The Future of Online Casinos in Ontario

Ontario's online casinos are making their legal debut, though Canadians have long been passionate about online casino gaming. Other provinces will be keeping a close eye on Ontario's new industry to gauge its popularity. Soon, we may see a variety of similar online gambling sites emerging nationwide, leading to larger player pools, bigger jackpots, and a lot more excitement!

About Ontario Lottery and Gaming Commission (OLG)

The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) was established in 1975 to offer gaming entertainment to local residents. Initially focused on lotteries and charitable gaming, it has since expanded to include land-based casinos and state-run online casino games. The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) also regulates the OLG's own online casino.

iGaming Ontario: Launched in mid-2021 under the AGCO, iGaming Ontario is tasked with establishing licensing agreements with prospective online gambling operators in the province.

Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO): The AGCO oversees Ontario’s 25 licensed land-based casinos.

How We Review the Best Online Casinos

To help you compare the top online casinos in Ontario and find the best gambling site to suit your preferences, I have thoroughly reviewed every legal casino site available in the province. You can find a summary of these in my Top 10 list above, and an A-Z index with links to all my detailed reviews is at the bottom of this page. Any casino that failed to meet my standards has been excluded from this list of recommended Ontario casinos.

Each casino site undergoes rigorous testing before we endorse it. This comprehensive process can take 30 days or more, as we meticulously experience the entire player journey—from account registration and meeting KYC requirements to making deposits, fulfilling wagering requirements, and processing withdrawals. Additionally, we evaluate customer support, test the platform on multiple devices, and explore a broad selection of games on offer.

The key areas I consider in every review include:

  • Banking: The best online casinos in Ontario provide customers with a variety of secure payment methods, including VISA, MasterCard, e-wallets, prepaid cards, and bank transfers. Cryptocurrency options may also be available. Can players use their chosen deposit method for withdrawals as well? What are the site's minimum and maximum limits for deposits and withdrawals? Note that each payment method has different processing times for deposits and withdrawals, which may impose certain limitations to consider before making a choice.
  • User Experience: Players seek online casino sites that are fast, intuitive, and responsive. These modern, state-of-the-art platforms must avoid performance lags to be recognized among the best Ontario online casinos. A slow, spinning wheel on a casino site deters players from continuing their gameplay. Additionally, these sites should feature a simple, straightforward layout. Ontario slots, jackpot slots, table games, and live casino games should be organized in separate, easy-to-navigate sections. A top-tier Ontario online casino will also offer a "favourite games" tab, allowing players to quickly access their preferred games.
  • Customer Service: Regardless of the service quality, there will be times when even players at the best Ontario online casinos need to contact customer support. This could range from minor issues to significant incidents. The way the support staff treats players will have a significant impact on their long-term decisions regarding that Ontario online casino. Exceptional customer support staff are knowledgeable problem solvers and accessible and responsive 24/7 via live chat, email, and phone. Ontario sportsbooks also offer a comprehensive FAQ section, which can quickly address common casino player queries, saving valuable time.
  • Game Selection: Above all, Ontario online casino players seek one key element: choice. They expect a vast selection of games, and the best online casinos in Ontario deliver just that. Featuring hundreds, even thousands, of game options, these casinos cater to every player's taste. Slot enthusiasts can enjoy both old-school classics and cutting-edge new releases. Jackpot slots are abundant, and the table game offerings include dice games, ball games, and card games. Additionally, for those who crave the Las Vegas experience from the comfort of their home, the top online casinos offer a live dealer option, bringing the excitement directly to their living room.
  • Software: A wide range of game providers provide the games that are available on the top Ontario casino apps. Today, the market boasts dozens of prominent options, each delivering unique variations of both classic and innovative games. While some players may remain loyal to a favourite game, many will seek to explore a broad spectrum of gameplay. Regardless of the brand they choose, the games should operate seamlessly and be user-friendly on both desktop computers and mobile devices.
  • Security: Feeling secure while online is a top priority for most people. When individuals share personal information with Ontario online casinos, they need assurance that their data will be protected. The leading Ontario online casinos utilize cutting-edge technology to ensure site security, implementing SSL encryption and state-of-the-art firewalls for comprehensive protection.
  • Mobile Site: With nearly 30 million mobile device users in Canada, it is highly probable that most individuals playing at Ontario's online casinos do so via their mobile devices. Consequently, it is crucial for top online casinos to offer real-money mobile apps in Ontario that are both user-friendly and intuitive. Additionally, many sites provide dedicated online casino apps to enhance the gaming experience.
  • Responsible Gaming: Ontario bettors should prioritize playing at casinos that promote responsible gambling. Reputable Ontario casinos implement specific measures to encourage responsible play. Players should have the ability to set limits on losses, deposits, and time, as well as to block their accounts for a predetermined period. The top Ontario online casinos will also offer information on addressing gambling addiction issues.

Ontario Online Casino Sign-Up Process

Registering at a new online casino is relatively simple, but you'll need to verify your identity to comply with Ontario's legal requirements.

While you don’t need to be physically in Ontario to create an account or manage your funds, you must be within Ontario's borders to play real-money casino games. The casino uses geolocation software to confirm your presence in the province. To facilitate this, you must enable location services on your device and disable any VPN or proxy.

This process is quick and easy to complete online. Follow this concise guide to walk you through the typical steps:

  1. Choose a Licensed Online Casino: The AGCO has fully licensed each site we suggest.
  2. Sign Up: Provide your personal details—email, address, mobile number, username, and password—to create an account.
  3. Verify Your Identity: To comply with regulations, casinos require identity verification before you can start playing. Submit your documents through a secure portal to protect your data. Acceptable forms of ID include a driving license, ID card, or passport. You may also need to take a selfie to confirm your identity and submit a utility bill from the last three months as proof of address.
  4. Choose your deposit method: Fund your account using popular methods like Visa, Interac, and PayPal. Many casinos encourage setting daily or monthly deposit limits to help you manage your budget.
  5. Install Geolocation Software: Legal online casinos in Ontario use geolocation software to ensure you are within the province when playing real money games. Most sites will prompt you to install GeoComply's GeoGuard app. Simply follow the easy instructions to allow the app to access your device's location via GPS and Wi-Fi. This feature is integrated into most mobile casino apps.

How to deposit real money at online casinos

Depositing funds at top Canadian online casinos is typically a straightforward process thanks to the variety of safe, fast, and user-friendly banking options these real money casino sites accept. Here's how you can do it:

First, log in to your account at the Canadian online casino. Locate the "Deposit" button, usually found within the "My Account" section. Clicking this button will direct you to the cashier page, where you can view all available banking options.

Next, select your preferred deposit method and enter the amount you wish to add to your balance. You'll need to authorize the transaction with your casino payment provider. Once the deposit is processed, the funds will appear in your account.

Follow this step-by-step guide to deposit money at online casinos:

  1. Log in to your casino account
  2. Click on the "Deposit" button
  3. Choose your preferred deposit option
  4. Enter the deposit amount and any other required details
  5. Authorize the deposit

By following these steps, you can quickly and easily fund your account and start enjoying your favourite games.

Withdrawing your winnings

Withdrawing winnings from top online casinos in Canada is as straightforward as making a deposit. Simply log in to your account and click the “Withdraw” button in the “My Account” section. This will take you to a page displaying available payout options.

Select your preferred payment method and enter the amount you wish to withdraw. You might need to provide additional information, such as verification codes or a routing number, especially if the casino accepts e-check payments. Once you submit your payout request, the casino will process it, ensuring all wagering requirements are met, which might take a day or two.

After the verification is complete, you will be notified of the successful request. Depending on your chosen banking method and the casino, you should receive your funds within a few hours to a few days. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Log in to your account
  2. Click “Withdraw”
  3. Select your preferred payout option
  4. Enter the withdrawal amount and any required payment details
  5. Submit the withdrawal request

Online Casino Games in Ontario

  1. Online Slots: Ontario online casinos offer the most common and popular casino games: slots. These games are purely based on chance, requiring no skill, knowledge of rules, or strategy like table games do. Players can enjoy a variety of options, including 3-reel fruit machines, 5-reel video slots, jackpot slots, and mega jackpot slots, any of which could turn someone into a millionaire with a single spin.
  2. Texas Hold'em: Among poker players, this is the game everyone knows, and most are eager to play at Ontario online casinos. Each player receives two face-down cards, known as hole cards. Following this, five community cards are dealt face-up in three stages: the flop (a set of three cards), the turn (a single card), and the river (the final card). Players aim to create the best five-card poker hand using any combination of the seven available cards—their two hole cards and the five community cards.
  3. Video Poker: Video poker, based on five-card draw poker, is played on a computer console similar to a slot machine. Players receive five cards from the machine and can choose to discard one or more cards if the initial hand isn't winning. This game is particularly popular among novice poker players because it is less intimidating than sitting at a live poker table. The combination of playing anonymously, a low house edge, and the potential for substantial wins makes video poker highly appealing.
  4. Blackjack: In the realm of Ontario online casino table games, blackjack consistently stands out as the most popular choice at top online casinos. Known also as 21, blackjack owes its widespread appeal to its straightforward rules, thrilling gameplay, and the potential for strategic depth. Players only compete against the dealer, who stands in for the house. The aim is to achieve a total as close to 21 as possible without exceeding it, while also surpassing the dealer's total.
  5. Roulette: Roulette, derived from the French word for "little wheel," is the centrepiece of this online casino game. During play, a participant can place bets on a single number, various groupings of numbers, the colour red or black, whether the number will be odd or even, or if the numbers will be high (19–36) or low (1–18). To determine the winning number, a croupier spins the wheel in one direction and then sends a ball spinning in the opposite direction along a tilted circular track around the wheel's outer edge.

Popular Payment Methods at Ontario Real Money Casino Sites

Legal gambling offers superior banking options compared to offshore alternatives. With Ontario's online gaming market now open to competition, leading global brands can apply for licenses and provide online banking services under the supervision of the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario. These brands have established relationships with banks and payment processors, offering a variety of payment methods for real-money deposits and withdrawals.

Here are the most popular banking options at Ontario online casinos, along with their advantages and disadvantages:

  • Visa debit cards are widely accepted at most Ontario casinos and are convenient to use. However, some casinos may impose fees for Visa transactions, and withdrawals can take longer compared to most eWallets.
  • MasterCard: MasterCard is both quick to use and widely accepted at online casinos. However, some banks may block transactions to gambling sites by default, resulting in declined payments. Fortunately, you can usually resolve this issue within minutes by contacting your bank's customer support to opt-in.
  • PayPal: PayPal is a widely popular payment method globally, renowned for its high security and trustworthiness. In Canada, only Ontario online casinos can accept PayPal, as they are fully regulated and licensed.
  • Interac e-Transfer: Interac, arguably Canada's most renowned online payment method, stands out for its safety and security in fund transfers. However, it may take longer to transfer funds compared to other instant payment options.
  • MuchBetter: MuchBetter is a payment method tailored for online gaming, featuring a user-friendly app for easy use. While it may not be as widely accepted as other payment methods in 2024, its popularity is steadily increasing at Ontario casinos.
  • Skrill: Skrill is an eWallet known for its low fees and instant withdrawals. However, many online casinos have yet to support Skrill for online banking.
  • Neteller: Neteller provides fast and secure transactions through its eWallet. However, as of 2024, it will no longer be available on many gambling platforms.
  • Online Bank Transfers: While direct bank transfers are an option on many sites, they typically take longer to process compared to other payment methods and may incur high fees.
  • eCheck: eCheck is a secure and reliable payment method. However, it may take several days for funds to clear, potentially causing delays in deposits.
  • InstaDebit: InstaDebit is widely accepted at Ontario casinos, though some establishments may not support it for deposits.
  • iDebit: Quick deposits for Canadian players. Note that some casinos might not support withdrawals via iDebit, so you'll need to choose an alternative method to cash out.

No Deposit Casinos

Most online casinos in Ontario offer free play once you sign up. You can explore their online slots in demo mode or observe how online roulette operates without committing to a deposit. However, live casino games are an exception to this free-play option. To participate in real-money games, a deposit is required. You can still start these games and watch other players to get a feel for the gameplay before placing a bet.

Responsible gambling in Canada

Ontario online casinos and gambling sites must prioritize responsible gambling by offering tools like self-exclusion programs and deposit or loss limits to protect players and vulnerable individuals. Our experts adhere to stringent rating criteria to ensure our recommended online casinos provide comprehensive support for players. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling addiction, contact the Ontario Problem Gambling Helpline at (888) 230-3505. Additionally, several responsible gaming agencies offer support services:

  • OLG Support Centre at (800) 387-0098
  • ConnexOntario Helpline: (866) 531-2600
  • Gambling Therapy

FAQ

Is online casino gambling legal in Ontario?

Yes, online gambling is legal throughout Ontario. Since April 4, 2022, privately operated online casinos have been available to players in the province. Among the operators that launched on this date are BetMGM, LeoVegas, Royal Panda, 888, and Coolbet.

How can you withdraw and deposit at Ontario online casinos?

Ontario casinos provide a wide array of Canadian-friendly payment methods, allowing you to choose your preferred option. The leading online casinos in Ontario accept Interac, PayPal, Visa, and MasterCard, ensuring convenience and flexibility.

What’s the legal age to gamble in Ontario?

To gamble legally in Ontario, you must be at least 19 years old. While the legal gambling age is lower in some parts of Canada, Ontario requires you to be over 19 for all types of gambling, including online casinos and sports betting. This minimum age applies universally across all gambling activities.

Do I have to pay taxes on gambling or lottery winnings?

No, gamblers in Ontario are not subject to gambling taxes. Moreover, under current Canadian law, lottery winnings are not considered taxable income.

What is the most trusted and reliable online casino in Canada?

The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario, iGamingOntario, and our experts have carefully screened every Canadian casino on our list to ensure that it is a safe choice. For guaranteed top-tier safety, consider established operators like LeoVegas, bet365, BetMGM, and Caesars.

What are the casino ID requirements Ontario?

To legally gamble at Ontario casinos or online gambling sites, you must be over 19 years old and able to verify your identity with a valid government-issued photo ID. Be prepared to present your driver's license, passport, or Canadian citizenship card. Additionally, players under 21 must provide a second piece of identification to access a physical casino gaming floor, such as the Liquor Control Board of Ontario's BYID card (Bring Your ID). While you can use your Ontario Health Card as valid identification, you must offer it voluntarily, as casinos cannot request it. Online casinos will also require proof of address, such as a utility bill or rental agreement, and may need to verify your payment method if you're using a credit card. Additionally, they might ask for evidence of your source of funds, like a recent pay stub.

Is online sports betting legal in Ontario?

Yes, the sports betting market in Ontario is both regulated and legal. Residents can place bets on a variety of sports, including the NHL, MLB, horse racing, esports, and more. Additionally, you can download Ontario sports betting apps to access top markets on platforms like DraftKings Casino and BetMGM.

Can I play Ontario casino games for free?

Absolutely! All reputable Ontario casinos offer games in demo-play mode, allowing you to try out your favourite games and slots without any financial risk.