Ontario Online Casinos – Ontario Licensed Casinos 2023

How We Got Here – The Roadmap to Ontario Online Casinos Launch

The Ontario online casino industry is now up and running, but it took some doing to get here. It all began once Canadian sports betting made advances in recent years. The passage of Bill C-218 was a significant step forward in the legalization process since it ensured that single-game online casinos would be entirely legal. Ontario also started the licensing process for sportsbooks, which went live on April 4th, 2022, the opening date for betting and iGaming. In essence, laws allowing for the legalization of sports betting opened the path for Ontario online casinos. After the April 2022 debut date, sports betting and online casinos are operational in the province.

Who Is Allowed to Play at Ontario Online Casinos?

Overseeing real money online casinos in Ontario has been assigned to The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario. It must guarantee that each regulated casino gaming operator is cautious concerning whom it permits to play online casino games. In Ontario, only people over 19 years old can legally engage in gaming or gambling on online casino sites under existing legislation. If you decide to create an account at one of the best online casinos in Ontario, it will take you through a rigorous sign-up process to confirm that you are indeed as old as you say you are, adhering to the age policy. The process requires you to provide personal identification, such as a driver’s licence, but you will be allowed to play after you’ve done so.

How to Register at Ontario Online Casinos: A Quick Guide

In order to play for real money at any of the licensed Ontario online casinos, you have to be 19 years or older and be physically located in Ontario. You will first have to register and create an account. It’s easy to do. Here are our step-by-step instructions to guide you through the registration process:

1. Check out our reviews and choose one of the recommended Ontario online casinos.
2. Click the link in our review of your chosen casino to access the casino’s official website.
3. Click the “Register,” “Join Now,” or equivalent button, usually located at the top of the main site.
4. Provide your personal information as required: including your full name, date of birth, address, phone number, email address, etc.
5. Create a username and password.
6. Accept the terms and conditions.
7. Once you have submitted your information, you will have to verify your account by clicking a link that has been sent to your email address.
8. Set your preferred payment method and make your first deposit: Log-in; go to “Cashier”; select from the listed deposit options; enter your card, e-wallet or banking details; enter your deposit amount. Confirm and submit.
9. As soon as your account has been credited, you can start playing – choose a game and have fun.

If your chosen casino has a mobile app, you can download it and play online using the same login information you have created.

In order to verify your information, you should be prepared to provide documentation to prove your identity and other personal details provided, such as your address, ownership of your payment method, etc. Examples for this purpose are a government-issued photo ID, a utility bill, etc.

The Legality of Real Money Ontario Casinos Online

The Ontario Lottery and Gambling Corporation’s monopoly on online casino gaming is now over. Ontario players can choose any online casino real money that is now legal in the province. While this is great, it’s crucial to remember that Ontario’s gaming regulations have recently changed. This implies that once the first batch of licensed casino establishments opens across the province, there will certainly be some hurdles to clear.

Why Choose Ontario-Licensed Online Casinos?

If you’re an avid online gambler, you should definitely consider choosing Ontario-licensed online casinos. These casinos are regulated by the Ontario government and are held to high standards of fairness, security, and integrity. By choosing an Ontario-licensed online casino, you can rest assured that you are playing in a trustworthy and safe environment. Plus, these casinos offer a wide range of games and to keep you entertained and winning big. So, if you want to enjoy the thrill of the casino online Ontario scene while also ensuring your safety and security, choose an Ontario-licensed online casino.

• Ontario licence ensures fair and secure gameplay
• Reliable customer support 24/7 and dispute resolution
• Reputable software providers and high-quality games
• 100% player funds protection and strict privacy measures
• Compliant with Ontario iGaming responsible gaming practices

Why You Should Avoid Unlicensed or Offshore Online Casinos

To ensure a secure and safe casino online Ontario experience, it’s crucial to prioritize safety measures. Avoid unlicensed or offshore online casinos, particularly those not licensed in Ontario, as they operate outside the jurisdiction and don’t adhere to the same high standards as licensed casinos. Opting for an unlicensed or offshore online casino puts your personal and financial information at risk. Always play it safe and choose licensed and regulated online casinos, such as those licensed by the Ontario government.

Here are a few issues reported by gamblers who opted for unlicensed casinos online:

• Lack of regulatory audits, increasing the risk of unfair practices
• No player funds protection
• No responsible wagering measures
• Withdrawal requests blocked or denied
• Limited customer support
• Data security and privacy risks

Playing Responsibly at Online Casinos Ontario

Responsible online casino practices protect players by providing a safety net in the form of tools and information to prevent harm and to make the Ontario online casino experience more enjoyable.

When registering and playing with any licensed online casino in Ontario, you can rest assured that you will have a list of extensive safety measures in place. When playing at any casino that carries the iGaming Ontario certification logo, you can be ensured that this casino has to follow iGO’s stringent contractual agreements.

These include:

• maintaining accreditation through the Responsible Gambling Council’s RG Check program;
• ensuring a balance between advertising campaigns and problem online casino habits prevention;
• offering self-exclusion programs to players that allow them to schedule a break;
• sharing anonymized player data for research purposes aimed to improve responsible online casino Ontario measures.

On top of that, you may be comforted to know that these four rules are in addition to any of the standards set out by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO), the regulators of iGaming in Ontario.

In addition, iGaming Ontario’s website offers valuable information and sources for their operators to provide to their players in order to help guide and safeguard them. On iGO’s site, you will find everything from tips on how games work, to time-limiting and financial limiting tools, to links to the Responsible Gambling Council’s site (RGC), where you can find an extensive list of resources to help. You will find all these tools at Ontario online casinos as well, either at the top or the bottom of their pages.

Further, you’ll locate website links and contact phone numbers to organizations that can provide help and referral services in case you stop having fun playing at any online casino in Ontario and need assistance addressing any problems, for anything from mental health and addiction to financial counselling.

Ontario online casinos adhere to all the above standards and have resources and information about them available on their sites for easy access to their players in case they feel they need help with responsible online casino player behaviour. After all, all licensed sites are interested in providing a safe, secure, and fun casino online experience. They encourage their players to set limits for both time and money, and they provide the tools to do so on their sites.

When it comes to prevention and advertising, licensed Ontario online casinos have to adhere to the set standards, which include not advertising to minors and not advertising excessively. You may have read or heard in the news that there was a lot of talk at some point earlier in 2023 in regard to too many casino and sports-betting ads during televised NHL and NBA games. Some campaigns asked to ban these ads completely. In April 2023, AGCO addressed these concerns and proposed to ban athletes and/or celebrities from online casino Ontario commercials. The process to resolve this issue will take time, especially if the goal is to get the issue resolved right.

How We Rate Online Casinos in Ontario? – Watch The Full Video

In this video, we cover the 9 key factors we consider when evaluating the best Ontario online casinos to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

1. Casino Licence

One of the primary aspects we assess is the casino’s licensing. We prioritize online casinos that hold valid licences from reputable regulatory authorities. This ensures that the casino operates within legal frameworks and adheres to strict industry standards.

2. Quality Game Selection

A diverse and high-quality game selection is crucial for an enjoyable casino experience. We examine the variety of games available, including popular slots, table games, live dealer options, and more. A wide range of options allows players to find their preferred games easily.

Each casino game offered at a regulated Ontario casino online must have a return to player percentage (RTP) of not less than 85%, according to the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario. This guarantees that you have a good shot at winning. However, it’s worth mentioning that most slots and table games have an RTP of around 95%, putting the chances more in your favour.

Also, remember that third-party authorities will regularly evaluate these casino games to ensure they are fair and continue using approved technology that adheres to the game’s rules, including random number generators (RNGs).

3. Reputable Game Providers

To ensure fairness and reliability, we evaluate the online casino’s collaboration with reputable game providers. Renowned software developers undergo rigorous testing and provide certified fair games, ensuring players have a fair chance of winning.

4. Transparent Terms & Conditions

We emphasize the importance of transparent terms and conditions. Casinos with clear and easily understandable rules and policies are preferred. We carefully review the terms and conditions related to wagering requirements and withdrawal processes.

Your personal information and funds must be protected at any time while playing at an online casino. The regulations require that the casinos have consumer protection in encryption technology to allow safe connections via any platform users pick. When it comes to protecting funds, casinos are required to keep customer banking details in a separate account for protection in the event of bankruptcy.

5. Quick Cashing Out Time and Fair Conditions

Efficient and timely withdrawals are crucial for a positive player experience. We assess the withdrawal process, including processing times and any associated fees. Moreover, we look for fair conditions that do not impose unnecessary obstacles when players wish to cash out their winnings.

Every Ontario casino online must provide its customers with convenient, safe, and secure ways to withdraw and deposit from their casino accounts. Therefore, the top-rated casinos tend to provide every option they can support so that users have more than one way to transact.

6. Customer Support

Good customer support is essential for resolving issues and providing assistance when needed. We evaluate the availability, responsiveness, and professionalism of customer support channels such as live chat, email, and phone. Reliable support ensures players feel supported throughout their gaming journey.

A legal Ontario casino site should be able to assist you 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with several options for contacting the customer support team. You may reach out to the casinos via live chat, email, phone, and sometimes social media.

7. Registration & User Experience

A smooth and user-friendly registration process is vital. We examine the ease of creating an account, including the required information and verification procedures. Additionally, we consider the overall user experience, including website navigation, design, and mobile compatibility.

Customers will find it simple to access the gaming environment and play games at any licensed online casino in Ontario because of the high standards of online gaming user experiences set by the law and dictated by competition.

Players can access the games and casino experience from their laptops but should also be able to download apps from their iOS and Android app stores to play on their smartphones. Keep in mind that such mobile casino applications frequently use geolocation technologies to ensure that players are logging in from inside the province of Ontario.

8. Player Reviews

Player reviews and feedback offer valuable insights into the casino’s performance. We take into account the opinions and experiences shared by real players to gain a comprehensive understanding of the casino’s reputation and player satisfaction.

9. Casino Evolution

We acknowledge the importance of an online casino’s ability to adapt and evolve with the ever-changing Ontario online casino landscape. Casinos that continuously innovate, offer new features, and embrace modern technologies are highly regarded.

By considering these key factors, we aim to help you find reputable and enjoyable Ontario online casino real money platforms that meet your needs. Remember to gamble responsibly, and best of luck in your gaming adventures!

Blacklist Casinos

Blacklist Casinos are those that operate without a licence and have garnered negative feedback from users, resulting in a multitude of reported complaints. We have listed all the benefits of why you can rest assured and feel safe playing at the licensed online casinos in Ontario, and here we will give you an overview of why you should avoid playing at unlicensed, aka “Black List” casinos.

Issues can range and can include any of the following:

• Poor customer support
• Gaming and user experience may be impacted by lower-quality game software
• Game RTP (Return to player) payout percentages published may not be verified
• Missing disclosures regarding the safekeeping of player deposits, i.e., are your deposits kept in a segregated account?
• Withdrawals may be difficult or even refused
• Lack of transparency regarding licensing status and licensing body
• Lack of player support

There will always be some disreputable casinos trying to enter a particular market. Always make sure you take some time to look for any red flags before you create an account or even deposit any money.

If you want to make sure that you’re signing up with a reliable casino, it’s a great idea to check out the reviews and recommendations featured here on GambleOntario. Rest assured that we only feature new online casinos that are licensed by AGCO and operate under an agreement with iGaming Ontario.

Best Online Casino Ontario by Feature

Let’s explore the best online casinos in Ontario and find out what they can offer you as a player. We listed some of the most popular casinos and their most prominent features for you. Read the short but comprehensive descriptions of more top-rated Ontario online casinos.

❗ Mansion Casino

MansionCasino is an online casino that commenced operations in 2004 and joined the Ontario online casino market in 2022. Here is the same news as for some other casinos run by Mansion Group: MansionCasino will stop operating in Ontario effective 23:59 EST as of Wednesday, March 2023, due to increased operating costs the casino encountered in Ontario. You will be able to find the full details on MansionCasino’s FAQ page. There you will find everything you need to know in order to withdraw any remaining funds, the deadlines to do so, and also how long you will still be able to deposit or play. For successful withdrawals, regular requirements are in place, so ensure your account is verified, all your information is up to date, and that you have submitted all the required forms.

❗ Casino.com

Casino.com is a long-standing, reputable online casino website run by one of the biggest online casino groups in the world. But here is the news: Casino.com will stop operating in Ontario effective 23:59 EST as of Wednesday, March 2023. The casino had to make this difficult decision due to the increased operating costs it encountered operating in Ontario. You will be able to find the full details on Casino.com’s FAQ page. There you will find everything you need to know to withdraw any remaining funds, the deadlines to do so, and how long you will still be able to deposit or play. Regular requirements are in place for successful withdrawals, so ensure your account is verified, all your information is up to date, and you have submitted all the required forms.

8 Steps to Playing Online Casino Games in Ontario

By following the steps below, you should be well-prepared to start playing online casino games in Ontario online casinos. Enjoy your gaming experience responsibly, and have fun!

1. Choose a trustworthy licensed casino: To start, find trustworthy online casinos that welcome players from Ontario. It’s important to choose casinos that are licensed and regulated by the official license authorities in Ontario, AGCO and iGO. You can easily find that out by searching for the licence seal at the top or the bottom of the casino’s homepage.
2. Create a casino player account: To create an account on an online casino, go to their website and click the “Sign Up” or “Register” button. Provide accurate information such as your name, address, email, and date of birth. You will also need to choose a username and password.
3. Verify your account: After completing the registration process, you will have to verify your account. This typically involves providing identification documents, such as a copy of your driver’s license or passport, to prove your identity and age.
4. Make a deposit: Once you complete your account verification, it’s time to fund your account to start playing. Visit the “Deposit” or “Cashier” section of the online casino and choose a payment method that’s convenient for you. Common options in Ontario casinos online include credit/debit cards, e-wallets like PayPal or Skrill, or bank transfers. Enter the required details and the amount you wish to deposit, ensuring that you meet any minimum deposit requirements.
5. Explore the game selection: Once your account is funded, you can start exploring the online casino’s game library. Most casinos offer a wide range of options, including slot games, table games (such as blackjack, roulette, and poker), live dealer games, and more. Choose a game that interests you and click on it to start playing.
6. Familiarise yourself with the rules: Before wagering real money, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the rules of the game you intend to play. Most online casinos provide instructions and rules for each game. Take your time to read through them and understand how the game works, including any specific betting options or strategies.
7. Place your wagers: Once you’re comfortable with the rules, you can start placing bets. In most online casino games, you’ll be able to choose the amount you want to wager and the specific bets you want to make. Take note of the minimum and maximum bet limits for each game.
8. Enjoy responsible play: Remember to play responsibly at the best online casinos in Ontario and set limits for yourself. It’s important to establish a budget and avoid chasing losses. Take breaks when needed, and never gamble more than you can afford to lose. If you feel that your online casino player habits are becoming worrisome, seek help from support organizations or consider self-exclusion options provided by the online casino.

What Are the Payment Options at Ontario Online Casinos?

Ontario online casinos offer a vast variety of payment options, and there is a payment method for everyone, no matter what one’s preference may be. There are options for the players who prefer traditional payment methods, for the ones who value safety when it comes to disclosing personal banking details, and for the ones who value the convenience of the more modern payment options.

You will find the payment option that suits your needs! Check our casino reviews for each casino’s offering for both deposit and withdrawal options, payment methods accepted, deposit and withdrawal minimums, maximums and time frames. This gives you a handy quick reference.

The options range from various brands of Debit/Credit Cards, Interac e-Transfers, Cheques, Online Banking, Wire Transfers, Prepaid Vouchers, Casino’s own Gift Cards, various E-Wallets, and more etc.

If you value a casino with quick withdrawals, you may opt for an e-wallet option or even a wire transfer. You should always look at the minimum withdrawal amount requirements, not just the time.

If you prefer safety and are reluctant to provide your personal banking options, the prepaid voucher option may work best for you.

If you prefer traditional banking options, including Debit/Credit Cards, just make sure you know your bank’s or card issuer’s online casino terms. Some credit card companies treat deposits to an online casino account as a cash advance, which means you will be paying interest from day one. Some also have rules regarding the order in which any winnings are applied to your credit card account once received to your card.

The most popular payment options for Ontario online casinos are debit cards and Interac, as they are considered the most convenient and easily accessible.

Alternative Betting Options Beyond Online Casinos in Ontario

In addition to casino games, there are other popular types of online betting available in Ontario, including:

1. Horse Racing Betting: In Ontario, residents have two legal options for betting on horse racing. The province is home to 15 physical racetracks, with Woodbine Racetrack leading the way, along with several off-track betting facilities. At these locations, you can place bets on live racing events taking place in Ontario or at various tracks beyond the province’s borders. Additionally, Woodbine Entertainment Group operates two convenient apps, HPIbet and Dark Horse Bets, through which you can easily place your horse racing wagers.
2. Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS): Daily Fantasy Sports platforms allow you to participate in virtual sports competitions by creating a roster of real players from professional sports leagues such as football, basketball, hockey, and baseball. Based on the performance of your chosen players in actual games, you earn points, and you can compete against other players for cash prizes.
3. Online Poker Tournaments: Online poker platforms not only offer cash games but also host a variety of online poker tournaments. These tournaments can range from small buy-in events to large-scale tournaments with substantial prize pools. Players compete against each other to accumulate chips and ultimately win the tournament.
4. Virtual Sports Betting: Virtual sports betting involves wagering on simulated sporting events that are generated by computer algorithms. These events mimic real sports, and you can place bets on outcomes such as virtual football matches, horse races, or basketball games. Virtual sports betting provides quick and frequent betting opportunities.
5. Esports Betting: Esports betting involves wagering on competitive video game tournaments. You can place bets on professional players or teams across various esports titles like League of Legends, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, Dota 2, and more. Esports betting combines the excitement of gaming with the thrill of sports betting.
6. Online Raffles and Contests: Some platforms offer online raffles or contests where you can participate to win prizes or experiences. These can range from raffles for charity causes to promotional contests organized by brands or other operators.

Ontario Online Casinos Device Compatibility

When playing at most, if not all, of Ontario’s online casinos, there are many platforms through which you can access the casino games, your account, funds, and more. Since the goal is to cater to everyone on every device, online casinos often have mobile versions for you to play from different devices.

An Android App

Though the quality may vary from one casino to the next, there is almost always an Android app available on Google Play Store. When developed competently, the app should offer an experience that allows you to enjoy the same casino experience on the go as you would on a PC or laptop.

An iOS App

The iOS app is for Apple devices. It can be downloaded from the App Store and used on devices with the same development and user experience level as its Android counterpart.

A Browser-Accessed Site

The browser-based access option stands out as a good way to go for those using laptops or PCs. You can do this from a Mac or Windows device with ease. Given that there are updates to keep the apps running smoothly and optimization to ensure they can run on multiple devices, players should not have trouble playing their favourite games to their hearts’ content.

Land-Based Casinos in Ontario

Ontario has its fair share of online casinos now that they are legal. Before that, however, its residents walked into a good old-fashioned physical location. There are several establishments in Ontario, including Canada’s biggest land-based casino, Fallsview, located near Niagara Falls.

Other prominent locations include:

• Casino Niagara
• Casino Rama
• Caesars Windsor
• Elements Casino Brantford
• Gateway Casinos Sault Ste. Marie
• Starlight Casino Point Edward
• Shorelines Casino Thousand Islands
• Great Blue Heron
• Casino Ajax Downs

You can find many more locations by searching on the map to locate one near you.

Why Trust Us – GambleOntario

When you’re in search of a licensed Ontario online casino or sportsbook, GambleOntario is your go-to. We proudly advocate for responsible player behaviour at Ontario online casino and provide comprehensive, unbiased reviews, guides, tips, and strategies.

GambleOntario as Your Expert Source

• Our Mission: We aim to equip users with all necessary information, helping them identify the best online casino tailored to their needs.
• The Team: Comprising experts who are passionate and stay updated with the latest trends, our team offers valuable insights. Our content is crafted to be clear and beneficial for users navigating the Ontario online casino sector. We are dedicated to being a user-friendly, educational, and insightful guide.

Tailored to the Ontario Market

Our reviews, guides, and tips are specific to the licensed online casino market in Ontario. We aspire for our readers to leverage our expertise, ensuring they have the most enjoyable and rewarding online casino experience in Ontario.

Online Casino Review Process

Our comprehensive review process ensures that each casino is evaluated based on stringent criteria, from game selection and overall player experience to security measures. Dive in to understand how we assess, rank, and recommend the best online casinos Ontario for you.

1. Research and Rating Criteria

Our team undertakes extensive research, adhering to a detailed and consistent rating criteria. This methodical approach ensures users have comprehensive data to compare different casinos effectively.

2. Quality and Safety Evaluation

• Licensing Checks: We verify if the casino is licensed by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) and iGaming Ontario (iGO).
• In-depth Analysis: From reading the casino’s terms and conditions to delving into their history, we leave no stone unturned.
• Safety Metrics: Our safety checks encompass site encryption, game RTP percentages, quality of games, and the technology behind them, including RNGs. Furthermore, we verify the protection of player deposits and the promptness of winnings payout. The availability of robust customer support is also scrutinized.

3. Assessing Playing Experience

• Signup Process: We evaluate the user experience during the sign-up.
• Banking Procedures: Our team examines deposit and withdrawal procedures, timeframes, and limits.
• Comprehensive Checks: From reviewing the help options, FAQs, and tools to assessing the range and quality of games, we ensure thorough evaluations.
• User Reviews: Player feedback and reviews play a crucial role in our assessments, offering insights into the casino’s overall reputation.

4. User Feedback

Upon completing our analysis, we offer honest feedback, comparisons, tips, and a comprehensive list of pros and cons. Our aim is to provide dependable reviews, ensuring our readers have the optimal experience with licensed Ontario online casinos.