The Role of iGaming Ontario as a Regulatory Body for Gambling in Canada
iGaming Ontario operates as a government-run gambling authority under the AGCO. It oversees the online gaming industry in Ontario. Following its inception, online casinos became legal in the province, fostering a more competitive market and protecting player rights at a governmental level.
Our team has compiled an extensive overview of iGaming Ontario, detailing the province’s licensing framework and identifying which casinos operate under the regulatory body's approval.
Key Information: Online Casinos Operating in Ontario
| Full Name | iGaming Ontario |
|---|---|
| Date of Foundation | 2019 |
| Official Website | www.igamingontario.ca |
| Staff | 30+ |
| Legal Address | 90 Sheppard Avenue East Suite 200–300 Toronto, Ontario M2N 0A4 |
| [email protected] | |
| Telephone |
General telephone: 416–326–8700 Toll free in Ontario: 1–800–522–2876 |
The Establishment and Evolution of iGaming Ontario
In December 2021, it was announced that the Ontario Government had initiated preparations for the licensing of offshore online casinos within the province. This marked a significant move towards legitimizing the iGaming sector and establishing fair competition among its stakeholders.
Prior to these measures, online gambling in Ontario was limited to a few licensed websites, alongside numerous unregulated sites operating outside state oversight.
Consequently, in 2022, iGaming Ontario was established, functioning independently from the Alcohol and Gambling Commission of Ontario (AGCO). Its primary mission is to facilitate the licensing of online casino operators, while its activities remain under the supervision of the AGCO Board of Directors, led by Ontario’s Attorney General.
Comprehensive List of Online Casinos in Canada Holding an Ontario Licence
Following the rollout of this licensing initiative, online casino operators gradually transitioned from the grey market to obtaining official licenses. Currently, over 50 gaming websites are legally operating, with an increasing number launching each month.
The following table displays casinos that are licensed by iGaming Ontario:
Primary Duties of the Commission Overseeing Casinos in Canada
The responsibilities of the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Commission extend beyond merely issuing licenses to online casinos. Their roles encompass several crucial functions, including:
- Full legalization of online casinos within the Ontario marketplace.
- Mediating disputes between players and operators of gambling sites.
- Assessing and verifying gaming entertainment providers.
- Monitoring the operations of online casinos.
- Imposing penalties on iGaming representatives for frequent violations and failure to meet established standards.
- Enhancing the operational environment for online gambling in Ontario.
Financial Requirements for Obtaining an iGaming Ontario Licence
To acquire a license, applicants must pass multiple stages of scrutiny and also make a financial deposit at the end of the process. The Ontario gambling licence represents an official authorization that entails considerable expenses, which vary based on the applicant's role in the gambling market:
- For an online casino operator – CAD 100,000 annually;
- game producers – 15,000 CAD per year;
- For providers of games and gambling services – CAD 3,000 annually.
Guidelines for Responsible Gaming Set Forth by iGaming Ontario
The regulator aims to foster a safe gaming environment for players by imposing stringent requirements on operators. Casinos licensed by the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation must adhere to regulations ensuring a secure atmosphere for players. Operators are required to:
- Achieve accreditation and maintain compliance with responsible gambling standards as part of the RG Check program.
- Offer clients a self-exclusion service that allows them to block their access to all Ontario-licensed casinos with ease.
- Engage in campaigns that seek to mitigate gambling-related problems exacerbated by aggressive marketing tactics.
- Collaborate with iGO by sharing data on ‘at-risk’ clients to enhance the effectiveness of the Responsible Gaming initiative.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Casinos Regulated by the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation
The stipulations from regulatory bodies shape the experience of patrons at gambling establishments. Thus, before registering at any Ontario online casino, it’s important to consider both the advantages and disadvantages involved.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Casinos under the OLGC regulator operate with integrity, reliable casinos ensuring the protection of client data and deposits at all times. | You cannot play for money without a passport and verification Clients are required to verify their personal information, |
| with all gaming options being from reputable providers, ensuring fairness in outcomes. | While the variety of games may be more limited compared to unregulated casinos, |
| secure and user-friendly payment options are available, including bank cards, Skrill , PayPal , Neteller , PaySafeCard , iDebit , ISTADebit , and others | Upon registering, individuals must provide personal information and residential address. |
| Profitable promotions and bonuses Loyal customers have access to a tiered loyalty program, | |
| Access to all options and tools for responsible gaming | |
| guaranteeing withdrawals without delays or hidden charges. | |
| Support is available around the clock through a range of communication channels: email, chat, and phone. | |
| Low minimum limits on deposits and withdrawal of winnings |
Despite certain drawbacks, casinos licensed by the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation are highly favored among players. Gamblers appreciate these legal and certified platforms whose activities are monitored by the state, providing them with assurance of fairness and security. Furthermore, they benefit from good selection of gambling games attractive promotions, tournaments in collaboration with providers, and various other engaging activities.