The current global value of the online casino industry is thought to exceed $17.3 billion dollars. It is also thought that there are approximately 6,000 registered casino brands located around the world. These portals generate billions in aggregate revenue, and there is little doubt that this sense of momentum will continue to increase.
However, what is the situation when referring to the legality of online casinos in Canada? Are there any specific rules and regulations that players should be made aware of? Let us take a brief look at the fundamentals so that readers can make an informed decision.
The Basics
First and foremost, we should begin by stating that online gaming (including virtual casinos) is legal throughout Canada. However, a caveat must also be highlighted. Much like the United States, different regions of Canada are associated with their own set of regulatory requirements. An example can help to illustrate this point.
Imagine that a player wishes to access the online casino Jackpot City. He or she might have been attracted to their one-time welcome bonus of up to $1,600 dollars, the large collection of slots games, or the flexible array of payment options. Either way, one primary concern involves age limitations. Residents of Alberta will need to prove they are at least 18, while those living in Nova Scotia must be 19 before registering. From the player’s perspective, this is arguably the most important metric.
What About the Regulatory Bodies
Unlike nations such as the United Kingdom, Canada is not governed by a single gaming regulator. This will once again depend on the province. Here is a quick breakdown of some typical examples:
- Alberta: The Alberta Gaming, Liquor, and Cannabis Commission (AGLC)
- British Columbia: The British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC)
- Ontario: The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO)
This is important for casinos that are hoping to offer their services to the public, as licencing requirements will often differ between regulatory bodies. Owners should therefore make it a point to contact the relevant organisation to determine what type of paperwork they will be obliged to file.
The Rise of KYC Regulations
Another point to address involves a somewhat new process referred to as KYC (Know-Your-Client) verification. Some players have questioned the legality of this method, as it will ask for specific documentation when performing certain casino-related actions. Documents could include passports, driving licenses, and recent utility bills. The primary intention of any KYC verification is to address ongoing threats such as identity theft and money laundering. This is why the majority of online casinos throughout Canada have adopted the process, and it makes perfect sense from a security standpoint.
The acceptance of online gaming throughout Canada provides players with a wealth of fun (and potentially rewarding) opportunities. However, it is still important to understand the fundamental regulations so that you are able to register with a quality provider.
