Be the first to get exclusive No Deposit bonuses and WOW casino promotions! Get access to our new online casinos, top stories and special iGaming events for FREE.
Be the first to get exclusive No Deposit bonuses and WOW casino promotions! Get access to our new online casinos, top stories and special iGaming events for FREE.
Be the first to get exclusive No Deposit bonuses and WOW casino promotions! Get access to our new online casinos, top stories and special iGaming events for FREE.
Be the first to get exclusive No Deposit bonuses and WOW casino promotions! Get access to our new online casinos, top stories and special iGaming events for FREE.
Be the first to get exclusive No Deposit bonuses and WOW casino promotions! Get access to our new online casinos, top stories and special iGaming events for FREE.
Be the first to get exclusive No Deposit bonuses and WOW casino promotions! Get access to our new online casinos, top stories and special iGaming events for FREE.
Be the first to get exclusive No Deposit bonuses and WOW casino promotions! Get access to our new online casinos, top stories and special iGaming events for FREE.
Be the first to get exclusive No Deposit bonuses and WOW casino promotions! Get access to our new online casinos, top stories and special iGaming events for FREE.
Be the first to get exclusive No Deposit bonuses and WOW casino promotions! Get access to our new online casinos, top stories and special iGaming events for FREE.
The Canadian province recently decided to regulate online casinos in Ontario, making it one of the latest to implement online gambling legislation. Here at CasinoWow, you will find all the current and most secure online casinos licensed and registered at the Alcohol & Gaming Commission of Ontario and approved by iGaming Ontario to offer online casino games and betting.
On this page we take a look at the latest gambling regulations, the licensing procedure operators have to go through and the benefits of playing at a licensed and regulated online casino. If you’re new to online gambling in Ontario or simply looking for a top licensed online casino you’ve come to the right place.
Hi, I'm Deni! I'm a research obsessive with a passion for gambling regulations, market trends, and casino news. I dig deep into every topic I cover - so every article, review, or guide I write is built on solid research and real detail.
Affiliate Disclosure: We at CasinoWow, want to ensure that you will find only licensed and regulated online casinos reviewed or recommended by our experts. However, our content has affiliate links, meaning we may receive a commission payment when a player registers or deposits at a chosen online casino. This is at no additional cost to you and should not affect your gambling preference for a casino.
Casumo Casino is all about fun and feeling free while enjoying the casino games you know and love. Colourful and bright, there's no doom and gloom found at this top online casino.
Casumo Casino is all about fun and feeling free while enjoying the casino games you know and love. Colourful and bright, there's no doom and gloom found at this top online casino.
Wildz Casino is a top online casino that is all about the player experience, offering more than 500 games as well as incredible bonuses and promotions!
Wildz Casino is a top online casino that is all about the player experience, offering more than 500 games as well as incredible bonuses and promotions!
🏁 You’ve reached the end of this casino list. Nice run!
🏁 You’ve reached the end of this casino list. Nice run!
Newest Online Casinos
Here is a short list of all the latest online casinos that you can start exploring today! We've selected the newest and hottest casino websites for you to enjoy. Take a look and start playing today!
Discover the latest casino bonuses available here at CasinoWow! You can claim a bonus of your choosing at a top-rated online casino with a good reputation. Take a look:
Online gambling in Ontario was launched in the iGaming market on 4 April 2022. Thus far, Ontario is already seen as North America’s fifth-largest gambling market.
Online Casino, Sports Betting, and Lottery Regulation
The fifth-largest gambling market in North America
Own Responsible Gambling system in place
High standards in place for game providers and casino operators
Cons
Intense licensing procedures for online gambling operators
Restrictions for game features and on online slots
The Ontario license can be used only for that region
Contents
Contents
Ontario - Canada Details
WOW Score: 79/100High Player ProtectionStrict Compliance & MonitoringFair-Play Standards
Gambling regulations
Online gambling is finally legal in Ontario with the launch of the iGaming market on 4 April 2022.
Thus far, Ontario is already seen as North America’s fifth-largest gambling market.
Many online casinos are applying for licensing, and it is suggested that this province is encouraging Canadian online gaming providers to take part in some healthy competition.
Keep in mind: At the current time, there are already 80+ online casinos registered with AGCO and approved by iGaming Ontario.
However, there are much more internet gaming operators that have applied for licensing.
The good news is that Ontario residents will no longer have limited gaming options.
Why we rated iGaming Ontario with WOW LicenceScore (WLS) 79/100
Ontario was the first region in Canada to introduce a gambling framework and regulate this pastime. Being the first comes with the territory. Sometimes, that means that you will be making mistakes and trying to find the right solution and way for newfound issues.
But most of all, it means that you will be paving the way for others to follow and setting an example. The Canadian regulator has done a good job at that, earning a commendable 79 score out of 100. Here's a breakdown of our reasoning below:
Player Protection & RG - 80/100 - Ontario is adamant about creating a safe space for players to enjoy. This is reflected by its RG efforts, as the regulator has even created its own player protection program called RG Check.
- National self-exclusion (Mixed) - There is a mandatory self-exclusion option at every operator platform, along with detailed information about it on AGCO and iGaming Ontario's websites. However, the regulator currently doesn't manage a coordinated and centralised program.
- Mandatory tools (Strong) - Operators are required to provide different options for safe play, resulting in a number of RG tools at the disposal of players. These include speed limits, no split screens available, no Autoplay and similar features, etc.
- Affordability/SoF controls (Strong) - Taxation depends on the operator's revenue. There's also the yearly fee, which is fixed at CA$100,000. Generally, acquiring and maintaining a license with iGaming Ontario is considered accessible and affordable.
- Player funds protection (Strong) - The regulator has also included requirements for protection of player funds, although no full insurance guarantee, as with other licenses.
Enforcement & Supervision - 79/100 - A great effort by iGO in enforcement and oversight for such a short time. However, there's still room for improvement, which we explain below:
- Deterrence track record (Strong) - iGaming Ontario has a track record of enforcing severe fines for operators that are not compliant. However, as it is a relatively new market, there are still limited high-profile actions.
- Audit cadence & resourcing (Mixed) - The regulator conducts the necessary audits and supervision processes, but information about those and the requirements is not that easy to access.
- Publicity of actions (Strong) - There is information shared on the regulator's website about current or upcoming endeavours. The problem is that it's not always easy to find and as detailed as most, which makes it harder to navigate and understand.
Licensing Standards - 90/100 - iGO's strict requirements and high licensing standards has earned it an excellent score in this category. Here's a breakdown below:
- Fit & proper (Strong) - There are the necessary UBO and AML checks, though more could be done about the compliance staff and CTF overviews.
- Operational controls (Excellent) - All operators are required to submit a Control Activity Matrix (CAM), which is an independently audited document. This report should include all operations and processes that are taking place in order to meet the iGO and AGCO's standards.
- Entry bar clarity (Strong) - Requirements are fair and explained in detail on the regulator's website.
Testing & Game Integrity - 73/100 - iGO has naturally included proper policies about games and certification. Still, there's something lacking, especially if you compare those with the requirements of other authorities.
- Approved labs & scope (Strong) - Approved labs are all listed on iGO's website, though the volume leaves more to be desired.
- RTP policy (Mixed) - There are good RTP policies, but more transparency on RTP disclosures would be beneficial.
- Change management (Limited) - No information about change management processes and enforcement, new requirements, and recertification is shared publicly on the regulator's channels, which was reflected in this and the 'Transparency' categories of its score.
Transparency & Guidance - 81/100 - Even though the regulator has readily shared many useful resources, guides, and articles about its actions, there's still a lot more to be desired when it comes to transparency and accessibility.
- Clarity of rulebooks (Strong) - Regulatory documents are detailed and easy to follow when shared. Not all of them are public and accessible, though.
- Public registers (Mixed) - There are some public registers with licensee information, but nothing about status history and other records.
- Update velocity (Strong) - Seeing how it's a fairly new market, this requires regular updates and tweaks, which iGO currently does okay in implementing.
Banking & Crypto Compliance - 40/100 - There still aren't formal regulations about crypto. Plus, banking verifications need some work, too, hence the score.
- Clarity & safeguards for crypto/open-banking (Weak) - All transactions and handling of funds are held up to the highest standards. However, crypto is yet to be regulated and there is limited flexibility on open-banking integration.
Things you need to know about the new iGaming Ontario Market
The new iGaming Ontario market officially launched on the 4th of April 2022. The AGCO finalised rules and regulations for the new market in September 2021.
The newly regulated iGaming Ontario market comes with various rules and requirements that apply not just to the operators and software providers but to the players as well.
Anyone who wants to play games at online casinos or land-based casino establishments needs to be at least 19 years or older. You can, however, start taking part in the provincial lottery and sports betting options if you are 18 years of age. Gambling activities such as online slots are only accessible to those 19 and older.
The new online gaming market in Ontario is quickly becoming one of the biggest and most competitive in North America. Already 30+ operators are trying to get their hands on licensing to operate. Ultimately there will be plenty of options for players to choose from.
As an online casino player, you will have the opportunity to create an account with any of the licensed operators from anywhere within the province. However, you will not be able to register or play when you are travelling or found outside the borders. Different rules and regulations apply everywhere, and once you leave Ontario, you no longer have access to the regulated gaming market.
There are plenty of legal gaming options available in Canada, which include online slots, table games, the lottery, and sports betting. However, the legislation is already considering responsible gambling and restricting some features on several games. This includes banning the Autoplay feature on slots and amending the speed on spins to a minimum of 2.5 seconds per spin. There is also no more split screenplay available. This means there will be no more dual games, only singular games.
Licensing
As part of AGCO’s regulatory responsibility, they assess all online casino operators who apply for licensing within the state. All operators are subject to registering and complying with the Gaming Control Act, 1992. The industry is licensed and regulated by AGCO – iGaming Ontario which forms part of AGCO. It will regulate all third-party online casino gambling within the province. The gambling industry as a whole is regulated by AGCO.
Several online casino operators and sportsbooks have already received their licensing approval. It is said that over 30+ operators have applied in hopes of getting to enter this brand new iGaming market.
License application procedure
Any iGaming operators that want to serve players in the newly established iGaming Ontario market need to apply for licensing. The licensing procedure includes many different steps, and all submissions will be reviewed by AGCO – iGaming Ontario.
All licensees will get to choose between a one or two-year term option when applying for their license. All operators will have to pay CA$100,000 per year for their online casino licenses. Like many other strict iGaming markets, such as Sweden, the rule is that any operator wishing to operate within the province needs to stop operating illegally immediately.
With the application process, all operators will need to provide AGCO with a range of supporting documents which includes all necessary information for a thorough assessment.
This includes:
Operator Application
Standards Gap Analysis
Personal Disclosure
Entity Disclosure
Regulatory fee
Investigation fee (Upon Request)
Supporting documents
These are all required for iGaming Ontario to start processing your licensing application. Supporting documentation can include several things including partnership agreement, details of shares, and more.
Only those who have been reviewed and approved for licensing will be allowed to operate within Ontario with the opening of the market.
Types of AGCO licenses
AGCO currently has two different classes of registration that apply to those working or supplying products to the internet gaming sector within Ontario.
Anyone who wishes to enter the sector within Ontario needs to apply for licensing. This includes:
Operators: Anyone who wants to operate a commercial gaming site within Ontario needs to acquire a license.
Gaming-related suppliers: Any suppliers who want to provide, install, test, maintain or repair gaming equipment must have licensing to do so.
Taxation
Online casino operators that hold a license within Ontario Canada will be required to pay tax on gaming revenue.
For players, there is no taxation on winnings unless you are found to be a professional gambler. If you are gambling as a recreational activity, then your winnings are exempt from taxes.
The primary focus of iGaming Ontario
The new gaming market in Ontario is strictly regulated by iGaming Ontario, a subsidiary of AGCO. Their primary focus is to protect the public and ensure responsible gambling.
Responsible gambling is the main focus which means the goal is to ensure all operators prioritise this and have several tools available to support responsible gameplay among players. This includes the option to self-exclude.
Fair Gaming is another primary focus where the gaming commission makes sure that all games operate as they are designed and that the outcomes are random and fair.
Then there is the drive to prevent any possible crimes, including money laundering. There are systems in place to ensure any criminal elements or activities are detected and deterred.
Ontario also has a strict no-underage gambling policy with checks in place to ensure no players under a certain age can register or play at online casinos.
The best security measures are put in place to protect personal information and ensure it is kept private.
Responsible gambling
Ontario is very adamant about creating a safe and secure gaming environment for all who enter the iGaming industry. Throughout the creation of the new legislation, responsible gaming has been one of the primary focus points. Operators are expected to be fully transparent and provide players with the necessary tools they need to enjoy a safe gaming experience while maintaining control over their online journey. Any providers who do not comply with responsible gaming regulations will not receive licensing.
Furthermore, PlaySmart is there to provide problem gambling resources, access to a toll-free helpline, as well as a number of helpful guides on gambling to anyone who may need it.
Ontario sports betting
One of the most exciting things about the new iGaming market is that many of the new operators entering the market will have a sportsbook accessible. This includes leading sportsbooks such as FanDuel, DraftKings, PointsBet, and TheScore. Some of these have already locked in their licensing to ensure players have access the moment the market opens.
Daily fantasy sports are just as popular in Ontario, Canada, and operators such as Fanduel and DraftKings have been leading the way for years. With the newly regulated market, you can expect even more DFS operators to enter the market in the months to come.
Top online casinos regulated in Ontario
The iGaming market is now open, and a number of the top online casinos in Ontario and sportsbooks have obtained licensing to launch along with the new iGaming market.
Here are some of the operators that are licensed to operate in Ontario:
The licensing process in Ontario is straightforward but it remains extremely strict. It is a lengthy process where AGCO and iGaming Ontario will process the necessary documentation before approving or rejecting candidates.
Yes, there is a player protection scheme known as the RG Check program which is put in place by the Responsible Gambling Council to ensure high standards of responsible gambling from all operators.
Yes, if you are unhappy with an operator or feel you’ve been treated unfairly you will have the opportunity to file a complaint with the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario. You will also have the opportunity to contact Ontario iGaming directly.
Yes, AGCO & iGaming Ontario are special for Ontario, Canada and therefore only apply to residents here. It does not apply to those outside Ontario. Once you are outside Ontario you will no longer have access to the regulated market and Canadian online casinos.
For casino operators, an AGCO license will be about CA$100,000 per year. Casino operators can choose between a one or two-year term when applying for their licensing.
Ontario’s online casino operators all have a responsibility to meet the highest Responsible Gambling standards which include self-exclusion options. With all licensed operations, you will be able to self-exclude at any time.
iGaming Ontario is a subsidiary of the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario with the purpose of overseeing the online gaming industry.
More useful info about iGaming Ontario
To make sure you've got all the information you need to fully understand how the regulator works and what are its specifics, we've also selected the following related content:
If you want to know more about the regulators and licenses for online casinos, here are some other leading gambling regulatory bodies that you can read more about:
The UKGC provides the strictest and fairest gambling regulation, ensuring British customer protection and satisfaction. Explore our ratings of the UKGC.
The Malta Gaming Authority offers safe and fair gambling to over 180 jurisdictions, ensuring that it remains a benchmark in casino and lottery regulation.
We use cookies to improve your user experience. By continuing to use this site, you are agreeing to our use of cookies as described in our Cookie Policy.
Casino Reviews
Free Slots
No Deposit Bonus
Crypto Casinos
Bonuses
WOW Awards
Casino Jokes
Big Wins
Casinos by Country
.png){kind=small}
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.svg)
