Is Online Gambling Legal in Canada? (2026 Guide)
Legal Analysis by Marc-André Fortin | Feb 4, 2026
The short answer is YES. It is not illegal for a Canadian citizen to place a bet online. However, the structure of the market changed drastically in 2022.
We now have two distinct legal zones in Canada:
Zone 1: Ontario (The Regulated Market)
iGaming Ontario (iGO)
If you are physically located in Ontario, you must play on sites licensed by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO).
- Verification: Strict ID checks regulated by the province.
- Spinbet Status: Spinbet operates in Ontario under a local partner license.
Zone 2: The "Rest of Canada" (RoC)
The "Gray" Market
In BC, Alberta, Quebec, and others, the provincial governments run their own sites (like PlayNow or Loto-Quebec). However, it is 100% legal for you to play at offshore international casinos.
- Choice: You have access to thousands of global sites.
- Safety: You must rely on international licenses (Malta, Kahnawake, Curacao).
The Tax Question
Do I have to pay taxes on winnings?
NO. Under paragraph 40(2)(f) of the Income Tax Act, gambling winnings are not taxable for recreational players. The CRA views them as a "windfall" (lucky gain), not income.
*Exception: Professional poker players who make a living solely from the game.
Safety Checklist for 2026
Regardless of where you live, Spinbet Canada recommends verifying these 3 things:
Legal & Safety FAQ
No. There has never been a case of a Canadian player being prosecuted for betting at an offshore or licensed online casino. The laws target the operators, not the players.
Located on Mohawk territory in Quebec, it's one of the world's first and most respected online gambling regulators, providing licenses to top international sites since 1999.
If the casino is licensed, you can file a formal complaint with the regulator (e.g., AGCO for Ontario, or the Kahnawake commission for international sites).