In 2021, Canadian lawmakers passed the Safe and Regulated Sports Betting Act (Bill C-218), which made single-game sports betting legal in Canada for the first time. Currently, provincial lotteries and gambling bodies regulate sports betting in Ontario, with each province taking ownership of its own legal betting activities. The passing of Bill C-218 was backed by commissioners of the NHL, NBA, MLB, MLS and CFL. Prior to the passing of the bill, betting was only permitted via the Proline+ website, which has been in operation since 1992. This is a government-run business where all wagers were required to come in the form of parlays. Proline+ has and continues to be owned and managed by the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation.
Ontario was one of the first provinces to launch an online igaming industry, which went live on April 4th 2022. Now, private operators of online sportsbooks and casinos can legally take wagers from players accessing their websites from inside the province.
From launch, analysts estimated that the Ontario online betting industry could generate $8 billion a year for the province. This saw leading operators such as BetMGM, BetRivers, 888Sport, Caesars, FanDuel, theScore, PointsBet and LeoVegas apply for and be granted licenses to operate in Ontario.
Lawmakers have stated that anyone under the age of 19 is not able to partake in online gambling activities in Ontario. Operators permitted to offer online betting in Ontario are required to conduct checks to protect underage consumers and players that have self-excluded from gambling activities.
While there are many online betting sites in Ontario, the majority offer similar options when it comes to sports betting markets. As well as popular, much-followed sports, most bookmakers will list betting options for niche and alternative sports. This allows bettors to pick and choose from a long list of options as and when they please.
Other popular betting markets amongst Ontario bettors include lacrosse, MMA, cricket, formula one, tennis, table tennis and NASCAR. Although these are the top betting markets that gather the most interest in Ontario, it's just the tip of the iceberg with regards to what's on offer. Other markets such as chess, futsal and rugby are also available.
Ontario betting sites understand the need to serve all types of bettors with all types of betting interests and budgets. This is why multiple bet types are available to explore. Below, we look at the most commonly offered, ensuring you understand what different bets entail and the rewards they can result in.
Live betting is one of the most in-demand bet types not only in North America but throughout the world. This is because live betting, or in-play betting as it is commonly referred to, is fun and adrenaline-pitching!
Live betting essentially allows bettors to place a wager on a game/match while it is in play, giving bettors the option to place bets from the first minute of the event to the very last. There are many benefits to placing live bets, one of which is getting a feel for a game before parting with any of your wagering budget. For instance, If you were to place a live bet on the Super Bowl, you could assess each team's performance in the first few minutes before deciding which team you wish to back. This, in turn, allows bettors to go into wagers feeling more informed.
Although most Ontario bookmakers will offer a live betting facility of some form, live betting odds differ hugely from one provider to the next. When reviewing the bookmarks that currently offer live betting in Ontario, we found LeoVegas to be one of the preferred choices. This is because not only are odds favorable, but the selection of live betting options is extensive. As well as soccer and football, bettors can place live wagers on basketball, baseball and even cricket! What's more, LeoVegas is one of the few betting providers to offer free wagering credits for live bets. Therefore, if getting as much value as possible from your wagering sessions is the priority, checking out LeoVegas Ontario is a must!
Other betting operators offering live betting on key markets include FanDuel Ontario, BetMGM Ontario and the famous Bet365 Ontario. In more cases than not, sportsbooks with a live betting option will also have a live streaming facility. This allows bettors to watch the matches they are betting on in the same browser that they monitor their live bets.
Free bets, which go by many other names, are free betting credits that permit players to pay for some or all of their bets with the bookmarkers' money. Free bets are called by many different names. Other terms used for this type of promotion are bonuses, wagering credits and so on. Like any type of betting promo, free bets are split into different categories, with each type of free bet carrying a different level of risk. The most popular is understandably the risk-free bet. This is because, as their name would suggest, they pose less risk than alternative promotions.
A risk free bet/bonus is awarded to a player when they experience their first loss wager. For instance, if you were to claim a $10 risk-free bet and you placed a $10 wager on an NFL spread that was successful, the bookmaker would credit your betting account to the tune of $10. Other free bet alternatives include matched free bets, parlay free bets and live free bets. In general, the less deposit requirement, the more attractive the free bet is to a player.
As well as deposit requirements, players should focus on the rollover requirement when looking to claim free bets. This refers to the number of times a player needs to essentially put their winnings at risk before they can be withdrawn and fully accessed.
Ontario online betting sites are competing against one another to attract sports bettors to their websites. In order to outshine rivals, many choose to launch friend referral schemes. These are promotions that incentivize players to recommend their chosen bookmaker to their peers. This recommendation is usually made by sending a link via social media, SMS, WhatsApp or email. If a peer decides to register an account, the initial player will receive a bonus to use on the site. This can vary in value but most often sits between $10 and $50. It is important to be aware that all bookmakers take a unique approach when developing their referral promotions. In most cases, the bookmaker will require a deposit to be made before they will release the bonus into the first player's account. The bonus will have its own set of terms and conditions with regards to what the bonus can be used on and how/when it can be withdrawn.
All online betting operators will go to great lengths to not only encourage people to register with them but keep betting long past the registration process has been completed. This is why loyalty promotions exist.
Where some operators will develop loyalty programs, others will give players the chance to enter competitions. Incentives usually come in the form of free wagers, but other prizes are commonly up for grabs too. Some sites will give loyal players the chance to win tickets to big sporting events, holidays and even cars!
Whether you are wagering on the NFL, MLB or tennis markets, finding ways to enhance potential winnings will be a priority. Odds boosts are a popular way to do just that. Odds boosts, which are offered on most Ontario online betting sites, boost the odds on selected markets, making the profit amount even more desirable.
Parlay bets were permitted in Canada long before the passing of the Safe and Regulated Sports Betting Act. With Canadians incredibly familiar with parlays, new online bookmakers had no choice but to place focus on this bet type. For this reason, most Ontario betting sites will feature online promotions for parlay bettors. As well as parlay free bets, Ontario bettors can also access parlay insurance deals. These promotions give players a comfort blanket in the event of one leg/selection losing. If this were to happen, the bookmaker would still pay out on the parlay bet.
BetMGM is a lightning-fast sports betting portal that has fast become a top online betting destination. The brand joined the Ontario igaming industry shortly after the ban on single-game online betting was lifted. BetMGM is the brainchild of MGM Resorts International and Entain Holdings; two of the biggest gambling organizations in the world. The two brands joined forces in the wake of gambling legalization in the USA.
When launching in Canada, BetMGM was welcomed with open arms, with bettors enjoying the site's approach to new player promotions particularly. When registering a new account with BetMGM Ontario, players can claim up to $500 in new player free bets and betting promotions.
One of the many stand-out qualities of the sportsbook is the fact that there is a whole multitude of deposit and withdrawal methods to pick and choose from. These include:
What's more, the list of payment methods found on BetMGM Ontario is likely to grow as online betting gathers pace in Ontario and BetMGM gains an understanding of how the bettors of the province like to bet.
BetRivers is legal and licensed in Canada, with the lawmakers of Ontario permitting BetRivers to offer online betting services in the province. Since its launch in 2022, players have been taken aback by the substantial list of promotions BetRivers has to offer. Unlike many online betting providers in Ontario, promotions go way beyond the welcome bonus and can be used across a variety of sports and bet types. From new player free bets to golf betting parlay insurance, BetRivers covers all bases!
You will be joyed to learn that the registration process on BetRivers is straightforward and fuss-free. It can also be competed on a variety of devices, including desktops, laptops, tablets and smartphones.
Once registered, players can enjoy scrolling through the tens of markets available. These range from popular sports like football, soccer, basketball and boxing to MMA and cycling, meaning whatever types of event you want to place a wager on, you will be spoilt for choice.
The multitude of options is only enhanced by the low wagering requirements, high bet limits and seamless website design. Therefore, if you are looking for a modern betting site that understands the demands of modern bettors, BetRivers could well be the provider for you. Sign up today and claim an exclusive new player bonus to get started with.
There are no question marks over 888Sport's ability to provide bettors with thrilling online gambling experiences. With roots dating back to 1997, 888Sport has stood the ultimate test of time, giving Ontario bettors confidence when registering an account. When looking for a new betting site to wager on, the markets on offer will understandably be a key focus. When looking at the list of markets on 888Sport, we are more than confident that the site can accommodate your every betting need.
Top markets promoted by 888Sport are basketball, hockey, ice hockey, soccer, football and tennis. However, we are also seeing a pique in interest for markets such as golf, table tennis and NASCAR. So, whether you are looking to bet on MMA, golf or NFL markets, 888Sport will be sure to hold the odds and promotions that you are looking for.
As well as offering online betting options in abundance, 888Sport is also a safe betting site. If online security and responsible gambling are qualities you want to see in your sportsbook, 888Sport is a great option for you. As well as the use of SSL encryption technology, the site also offers a series of safe and secure banking options.
Caesars is an online sportsbook with a whole stack of markets to boast. While an established gambling business that everyone has heard of, Caesars is enjoying an influx of new bettors from Ontario. Ontario bettors, who can now place single-game wagers, are seeing great value in being registered with Caesars. The online promotion on offer plays a key role in the site's popularity. From the $100+ wagering credits available on sign up to the unique features and tools integrated into the site, players will never be short of markets and bonuses to explore when betting with Caesars Ontario.
Players registered with Caesars Ontario can take advantage of the site's top-tier customer support. When venturing into online gambling, the business promised to maintain its reputation for caring about its customers, and they certainly haven't disappointed. When on the site, players can choose from a selection of customer support services, including live chat! Therefore, if you're a bettor that wants to be registered with a reputable betting provider, signing up to Caesars is a must!
Wondering what markets are covered on Caesars Ontario? Bettors can choose from an extensive list of options. These include baseball, football, cricket, rugby, lacrosse, darts and snooker. Caesars also operates one of the best loyalty programs in the country. The 6-tiered program provides regular players with great bonuses and a whole host of additional benefits.
The FanDuel Sportsbook is now available in Ontario. The platform is among the best in the industry as it provides bettors with amazing features and a large selection of markets to choose from. FanDuel, which was initially brought to market as a daily fantasy sports platform, has since diversified its offering, having evolved into one of the most popular and critically acclaimed sports betting businesses in North America.
Offering complete coverage of major sports and leagues, bettors are able to bet on pretty much any event imaginable via their FanDuel account. The brand's approach to live betting and streaming is particularly commendable. Whether you are looking to place a live wager on an NFL matchup or watch a baseball game on your smartphone, you will enjoy seamless technology when using FanDuel.
There are numerous payment methods accepted on the site too, meaning you can choose whatever service you feel most comfortable using. These include:
theScore has fast become a hot destination to place wagers in Ontario. This is enhanced by the polished look and feel of the betting site. With navigation a breeze and lots on offer in the way of promotions, theScore is a sportsbook that ticks many boxes for many players!
If you are considering making theScore your chosen sportsbook, there are a few things you will need to know. First, it is important to be aware of how the sign-up process works. To create an account, players must provide various details. These include your name, contact details and date of birth. You may well be required to provide proof of identification at the point of sign up.
Once your account is created, it's time to enjoy the new player bonuses and incentives available to you. The new player bonus usually requires the player to deposit a specified amount before the bonus money appears and can be wagered with.
PointsBet offers a highly-personalized betting experience that is unmatched in standard. From its super-fast platform to the generous promotions available, there are plenty of advantages to betting on PointsBet over other online wagering sites.
Here at betting.bet, we are seeing a huge spike in the number of Canadian bettors choosing to place their wagers over on the PointsBet app. The app, which is free to download, carries all of the markets featured on the desktop version of the site but with the addition of extra bonuses!
Some of the best promos PointsBet customers can take advantage of include:
Players can also make the most of the site's quick banking, 24/7 customer support and responsive live streaming tool.
Bet365 is a global betting business that enjoys an excellent reputation for offering safe betting services. Although Bet365 has moved into the casino, poker and esports industries, online sports betting remains the most popular service the brand has to offer.
The brand, which has been around since the turn of the Millenium, can offer Ontario bettors a great value betting service. This is made possible via a selection of online bonuses and loyalty promos. With rewards coming in all shapes and sizes, Bet365 features something for just about everyone.
Wondering what's on offer to new players? Well, you will be happy to learn that the new player free bets at Bet365 are amongst the best in the business. Whether Bet365 is offering a risk-free bet, no deposit free bet or a deposit bonus, the free bets are certainly worth claiming.
Sign up now and claim an exclusive welcome bonus.
Unibet Ontario went live on the 4th of May 2022 on the day that the Ontario regulated betting market opened for business.
The brand, which has been offering betting services since 1997, has a great name in the European market but has recently expanded across the US and now Ontario.
If you are looking for a place to bet online in Ontario, Unibet is an option worth exploring. You should certainly create an account if you are looking to bet in the NFL, NHL, NBA and MLB markets. Here is where you will find the most generous odds, promotions and volume of betting options.
Coolbet Ontario was founded in 2016 in Europe and has made a real name for itself in multiple jurisdictions since.
The design, which is basic and easy to digest, is one of the betting site's biggest selling points. This makes navigating your favourite markets and bonuses a breeze.
When on the site, players can choose to place a whole variety of bet types on a whole variety of betting markets. From Hockey and Football to NBA, MMA, Golf and Rugby, the sheer volume of options is impressive.
When reviewing the site, the betting.bet team found Coolbet's approach to promotions to be commendable. As well as new player free bets and bonuses, existing players could also benefit from various incentives. If you are looking for a brand that rewards loyal players, Coolbet Sportsbook is a great bookmaker to register with!
No, you do not need to live in Ontario to place a wager there. To be able to bet in Ontario you must simply be inside provincial borders. This means those visiting the state are permitted to place sports bets online.
All winnings made from online betting, casino, poker and bingo activities in Ontario are tax-exempt. This is one of the most attractive qualities of this type of recreational pastime.
All bettors need to be at least 19 years old to place online wagers legally in Ontario. All Ontario sportsbooks will conduct rigorous checks to verify a player's identity. This is to ensure minors are protected from gambling-related harm. Such assessments are required by law and are conditions of betting brands' gambling licenses.
Yes. You should only bet with licensed betting sites as they will have pillars in place to protect you as a player. All licensed Ontario betting sites will adhere to various rules set out by governing bodies. These relate to responsible gambling, online security and fraud.
Single-game betting is now permitted inside Ontario's provincial borders. The law changed to allow single-game wagering in 2022 with the passing of the Safe and Regulated Sports Betting Act (Bill C-218).
The majority of the online bookmakers live in Ontario and other Canadian provinces are US-based. However, theScore is an exception. This is a Canadian-founded brand that offers a variety of online betting markets and bet types to Ontario players.
While every bettor will have their own interests and appetite for betting, there are a few markets that seem to strike a chord with the majority of bettors based in Ontario. These are basketball, baseball, football, soccer, badminton, Aussie rules, boxing, cricket, cycling, darts, formula 1, Gaelic sports, golf, handball, hockey, lacrosse, MMA, motorsports, motorbikes, NASCAR, rugby league, rugby union, snooker, table tennis, tennis, volleyball and water polo.
We have ranked the best online sportsbooks in Ontario, focusing on many factors. From our research, we believe BetMGM, FanDuel, 888Sport, Bet365 and PointsBet to be the best betting sites available.
Placing bets on Ontario sportsbooks is safe as long as you are placing wagers with a credible and verified bookmaker. Be sure to check that your chosen betting site is fully licensed and compliant before creating an account and depositing any of your money.
