Are Canadian Online Sportsbooks Legal?
Online sports betting in Canada has undergone a major legal transformation in recent years. In August 2021, the federal government passed Bill C-218, repealing the longstanding ban on single-event sports betting and shifting regulatory power to the provinces. This change opened the door for provinces and territories to independently manage and license online sportsbooks within their jurisdictions.
So yes, Canadian online sportsbooks are legal but rules can change dependent on where you live. Some provinces, like Ontario, have launched fully regulated markets that allow private sportsbooks to operate legally, while others continue to offer betting exclusively through government-run platforms and offshore sportsbooks.
This guide breaks down Canada’s federal betting laws, explores the legal landscape in each province, and provides essential tips on how to bet safely and legally online.
Overview of Canadian Sports Betting Laws
Sports betting in Canada has changed in recent years by federal legislation and provincial oversight. Prior to 2021, the Criminal Code of Canada restricted sports betting to parlay wagers, which were offered through lottery corporations. This limitation pushed many bettors to offshore sportsbooks, which continue to operate in a legal manner.
Yet, the passage of Bill C-218, the Safe and Regulated Sports Betting Act, in June 2021, amended the Criminal Code to legalize single-game sports betting. Today, provincially regulated sportsbooks, such as those licensed by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) or operated by bodies like the British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC), offer legal alternatives to betting.
Horse Racing Is Governed Separately
Horse racing falls under its own regulatory framework, overseen by the Canadian Pari-Mutuel Agency (CPMA). While CPMA governs the core rules and betting pools, many Canadian online sportsbooks offer horse racing betting alongside traditional sports.
Do I Have To Pay Taxes On Sports Betting Winnings In Canada?
For casual bettors, sports betting winnings are generally non-taxable in Canada, as the government collects revenue directly from sportsbooks through taxes and licensing fees. The Canadian sports betting market is substantial, with an estimated $10–14 billion wagered annually, and projections suggest growth to a $28 billion market.
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Online Sportsbook Legality By Canadian Province
Most provinces operate their own government-run sportsbooks through lottery corporations such as OLG (Ontario), BCLC (British Columbia), or Loto-Québec. These platforms are some of the only options in provinces that haven't opened their markets to outside operators. Some jurisdictions (Ontario, for example) have launched iGaming (online casinos) as well as with private sportsbooks (like BetMGM, FanDuel, and DraftKings) to offer services. Below is a summary of the legal status of online sports betting in each province, with links to full pages for more details.
Ontario
Single-game sports betting has been legal since April 4, 2022, regulated by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) and iGaming Ontario. Ontario was Canada’s first province with a fully regulated private sportsbook market, hosting over 30 licensed operators.
British Columbia
The British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC) regulates sports betting through its online platform, PlayNow.com, which offers single-game betting. Private sportsbooks are not permitted, maintaining a government monopoly on online wagering.
British Columbia Sports Betting
Alberta
Sports betting is regulated by Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) via the online platform Play Alberta, which supports single-game betting. Alberta privatized online sportsbooks in 2025 after relying on its government-run system.
Manitoba
Single-game betting is available through PlayNow.com, regulated by the Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries Corporation (MLLC). Manitoba primarily operates a government-run model with limited private options.
Saskatchewan
The Western Canada Lottery Corporation (WCLC) oversees sports betting through Sport Select for retail and limited online single-game betting. Saskatchewan is considering private operators but currently maintains a government-focused system.
Quebec
Single-game betting is offered through Mise-o-jeu, operated by Loto-Québec, which holds a monopoly on sports betting in the province. Private sportsbooks are not permitted but offshore ones are.
New Brunswick
The Atlantic Lottery Corporation (ALC) regulates sports betting, offering single-game wagering through online platforms and select retail locations via ProLine. Bettors have other choices with offshore betting sites too.
Nova Scotia
Like New Brunswick, sports betting is available through ProLine products, regulated by the Atlantic Lottery Corporation (ALC). Both online and retail options are available to residents.
Prince Edward Island
The Atlantic Lottery Corporation (ALC) oversees sports betting via ProLine, which happens mainly in person in PEI. While there are online sportsbooks in Canada here, the offshore ones are more accessible.
Newfoundland and Labrador
Similar to the last few Canadian provinces, single-game betting is provided through ProLine, regulated by the Atlantic Lottery Corporation (ALC). Both online and retail betting options are available with many users looking offshore for more wager types and sports.
How Are Offshore Sportsbooks Legal in Canada?
Offshore sportsbooks in Canada exist legally as no federal or provincial law explicitly prohibits residents from placing bets at these sites. Typically, they are licensed in jurisdictions like Malta, Gibraltar, or Panama, offering some oversight and sense of security for residents. Prior to the legalization of single-game betting in 2021, offshore platforms were a primary option for Canadian bettors.
To safely use offshore sportsbooks, it’s essential to do your due diligence. Look for:
- SSL encryption to ensure your data and payments are secure
- Licensing from reputable international bodies like the Malta Gaming Authority or Curacao eGaming
- Clear and fair terms and conditions, especially regarding withdrawals and bonuses
- Customer support access, including live chat or email
- Strong Know Your Customer (KYC) practices, including age and address verification, to comply with anti-money laundering regulations
Choose The Best Canadian Online Sportsbook: Bodog
Bodog has been a trusted name in Canadian sports betting for over 25 years, operating legally under a few licenses. As one of the most recognizable offshore sportsbooks serving Canadian players, it has built a reputation for reliability, privacy, and long-standing service. Only accepting Canadians, Bodog prioritizes safety with SSL encryption and KYC protocols. While it lacks Canadian regulatory oversight, many Canadians trust Bodog thanks to its consistent payouts, cryptocurrency deposits, and sports to bet on.
Stay Updated on Canadian Sports Betting Laws
Provinces continually refine their regulations and change how online sportsbooks operate in their jurisdiction. To stay informed and bet responsibly, we recommend bookmarking CanadianOnlineSportsbooks.com for up-to-date legal guides, reviews, and resources.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is online sports betting legal in Canada?
Yes. It was legalized federally in 2021, but each province regulates its market individually.
Are offshore sportsbooks safe?
There are many safe offshore sportsbooks that accept Canadians. Ensure you find a reputable sportsbook that offers consumer protection.
What is the legal betting age in Canada?
It depends on your province. The Canadian sports betting age is 19 in most provinces, but offshore sites allow players to sign up at 18.
Is FanDuel legal in Canada?
FanDuel is legal in Ontario, where it is licensed through iGaming Ontario. Availability elsewhere depends on provincial regulations.
Is BetMGM legal in Canada?
Yes, BetMGM is licensed and operates legally in Ontario. It is not available in other provinces.
Can I use DraftKings in Canada?
Yes. DraftKings Sportsbook is legal in Ontario, while its DFS (daily fantasy sports) platform remains available in other provinces.