Ontario’s regulated online gambling scene has evolved into one of the most advanced and transparent iGaming markets in North America.
Since the launch of a fully open, competitive model in April 2022, oversight from the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) and the operational management by iGaming Ontario (iGO) have built a framework defined by monthly data reports, clear standards for operators, strong responsible-gaming rules, and a steadily expanding market presence.
This overview highlights (1) the legal and regulatory framework, (2) market statistics for fiscal year 2024–25, (3) the economic and tax impact, (4) developments in responsible gaming, (5) leading operator brands active in the province, and (6) key takeaways for 2025.
Together, these two bodies create a system that balances strong regulatory oversight (via AGCO) with an open, competitive commercial environment (via iGO).
The Registrar’s Standards for Internet Gaming set out what every registered operator must uphold – from maintaining game integrity and secure information systems to adhering to AML/KYC procedures, responsible gaming tools, data management, and fair play principles. Meeting these standards is a fundamental condition of being licensed in Ontario.
Ontario enforces strict guidelines around gambling advertising, sponsorships, and promotions. All marketing must be responsible, avoid targeting vulnerable groups, and include clear responsible-gaming messaging. These requirements ensure the market remains sustainable and does not rely on aggressive or youth-targeted acquisition tactics.
The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) operates its own legal website, OLG.ca, as a Crown-run gaming platform distinct from the private-operator ecosystem overseen by iGO.
Although both markets are regulated, iGO’s public reports focus solely on private operators that are part of its network. OLG’s financial data, while public, is typically released separately and does not appear in iGO’s monthly reporting.
Here are some of the major licensed operators, both private and Crown-run, currently active in Ontario’s online betting landscape as of 2025. All are listed in iGO’s official directory of authorized sites:
These online casino brands illustrate the market’s maturity – well-known global and continental brands are choosing Ontario’s transparent regulatory framework as their preferred environment.
According to iGaming Ontario’s data:
Quarterly totals for FY 2024–25:
Source: iGaming Ontario
From a global standpoint, Ontario has emerged as an international benchmark for regulated online gaming – the province’s experience is now serving as a model that could shape other jurisdictions or influence Canada’s betting landscape.
You can learn more about how the legal update of the online casino landscape in Ontario changed the online gaming landscape.
Under iGO’s agreement model, operators pay taxes and licensing fees, with the Province receiving net proceeds through distributions. Over its first three years, Ontario’s tax share of GGR has grown from approximately CAD $280 million in the inaugural year to roughly CAD $642 million in the third year.
Beyond tax revenue, the industry contributes significantly to employment, technology, marketing, payments, and customer service sectors. Deloitte’s estimate from iGO’s first year suggested over 12,000 full-time equivalent (FTE) jobs and a CAD $1.6 billion contribution to GDP.
In Canada, most gambling winnings for casual players are not taxable, as they’re treated as unexpected gains rather than income. However, professional gamblers – a rare classification – may be taxed on their winnings as business income. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) provides detailed guidance on this distinction.
Ontario’s regulated model not only channels play away from unlicensed offshore sites but also generates more tax revenue, supports job creation, and strengthens the local economy – while ensuring players are protected.
A province-wide exclusion program allows players to voluntarily bar themselves from all participating sites, improving accessibility and accountability for those seeking to manage their gambling behavior.
Marketing restrictions remain focused on shielding minors and vulnerable individuals. Operators are required to use responsible imagery and language, avoiding any appeal to underage audiences.
AGCO’s compliance framework continues to emphasize anti-money-laundering protocols, secure transactions, and fair-play verification across all digital products.
A growing share of betting activity has shifted toward regulated platforms, reflecting Ontario’s success in moving players from unlicensed to compliant environments.
Ontario’s regulated online gaming market has become strong, competitive, and socially responsible. With CAD $82.7 billion in wagers and CAD $3.2 billion in GGR for FY 2024–25, the province demonstrates that a fully open yet tightly regulated model can thrive.
For players, this means access to trusted, transparent, and diverse gaming options.
For operators, it represents a large, well-regulated market — albeit one requiring strict compliance.
For the Province, it brings meaningful tax revenue, job growth, and a safer alternative to offshore gambling.
As 2025 unfolds and new technologies and verticals emerge, Ontario continues to stand as a benchmark for regulated online gaming across North America.
