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The legality of online gambling in Canada is a complex topic, as each province has the authority to regulate its own gambling laws. One of the most important aspects of these laws is the minimum gambling age, which varies depending on the province. Understanding these age restrictions ensures compliance and a safe gaming experience for players across Canada.
Written by Everett Campbell - Updated 2025-02-27 - Reading time: 4 minutes.
For Canadian players, international gambling is legal as long as they meet the minimum age requirements and comply with applicable regulations. This allows Canadians to access offshore gambling sites without restriction, provided these platforms operate legally within their jurisdictions.
However, Canadian gambling laws are continuously evolving. Legislative changes can occur at both the federal and provincial levels, so staying informed is essential for compliance and security.
Gambling in Canada is primarily regulated at the provincial level, with each province having authority over its gambling operations. The Canadian Criminal Code historically prohibited gambling but has been amended to allow provincial governments to regulate and license gaming activities.
The 1970 amendment granted provinces the ability to oversee gambling, leading to the establishment of government-run lottery corporations and online gaming platforms.
Each Canadian province enforces its own rules regarding online gambling, with some operating government-sanctioned platforms while others permit offshore sites. Below is a summary of key regulations by province:
The legal gambling age varies by province:
Age restrictions apply to both online and land-based casinos. Additionally, some gambling activities, such as lotteries and charitable gaming, may have separate age requirements.
In Canada, gambling winnings are generally not taxed unless gambling is considered a primary source of income. Recreational players do not pay taxes on their winnings, but professional gamblers may be subject to taxation as their earnings are classified as business income.
Indigenous gaming authorities, such as the Kahnawake Gaming Commission, play a significant role in Canada’s gambling landscape. Established in 1996, the Kahnawake Gaming Commission licenses and regulates numerous online gambling operators, ensuring compliance with strict industry standards.
The legal landscape of gambling in Canada has undergone significant changes in recent years. In 2021, the passage of Bill C-218 legalized single-event sports betting, allowing provinces to regulate and offer this form of wagering.
Ontario became the first province to launch a regulated online gambling market in 2022, opening doors for licensed private operators to provide gaming services.
The minimum gambling age in Canada depends on the province. In most provinces, it is 19, while in Alberta, Manitoba, and Quebec, it is 18.
Each province has the authority to regulate gambling within its jurisdiction. This allows some provinces to set the minimum age at 18 while others choose 19.
Yes, the legal gambling age applies to both online and land-based casinos. Some gambling activities, like lotteries, may have different age requirements.
While offshore sites may not always verify age as strictly as Canadian-licensed casinos, gambling underage is illegal, and reputable platforms enforce age verification policies.
Casinos can ban underage gamblers, confiscate winnings, and report incidents to authorities. Online casinos require ID verification to prevent underage gambling.
No, there are no legal exceptions for underage gambling in Canada. All players must meet the minimum age requirement set by their province.
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