As of December 12, 2025, the iGaming industry in Canada is facing a crucial period heading into 2026. The regulatory landscape in Canada is evolving, with more provinces considering joining Ontario’s open market approach.
Ontario’s regulated private operator scheme, now three years old, is impacting the national debate as tax revenues exceed expectations.
Regulatory Landscape Update for 2026
Canada’s gaming regulation operates through a unique hybrid model, with the federal Criminal Code setting baseline prohibitions and allowing provinces to manage gaming within their borders under Section 207. This creates a patchwork system with varying legal options across the country.
Players looking into operator options can use resources like Slotozilla to compare licensed platforms, with the distinction between regulated and offshore operators becoming increasingly important for player protection in 2026.
Key Regulatory Bodies and Roles in 2026
- Federal Parliament: Responsible for Criminal Code amendments and the Section 207 framework.
- AGCO (Ontario): Handles licensing, standards enforcement, and compliance monitoring.
- iGaming Ontario (iGO): Manages operator agreements, market conduct, and revenue collection in Ontario.
- BCLC (British Columbia): Operates as the provincial lottery and gaming corporation with a monopoly model.
- Loto-Québec (Quebec): Quebec’s provincial gaming corporation with limited private partnerships.
- AGLC (Alberta): Acts as the provincial gaming regulator considering market opening.
- Provincial Attorneys General: Enforce the Criminal Code and prosecute illegal gambling across provinces.
Changes for Operators
Operating in Canada’s regulated iGaming market in 2026 requires significant compliance investment. Licensing requirements have intensified since Ontario’s market opened, with renewal processes now including performance reviews focusing on responsible gaming metrics.
Responsible gaming standards have increased, with mandatory deposit limits, loss limits, and behavioral monitoring systems. Advertising restrictions have also been tightened, with penalties for non-compliance.
Changes for Users
Players in regulated provinces now experience iGaming differently, with consumer protection rules ensuring player funds are segregated, transparent payment processing, and expanded responsible gaming tools.
Regulated markets offer benefits like reliable payment processing and a variety of responsible gaming tools that are mandated by regulators. Players can now make informed decisions based on the available options.
Market Evolution and Economic Impact
Ontario’s regulated market has led to significant economic activity that is influencing other provinces to consider similar approaches.
