In this comprehensive guide, we walk you through everything you need to know about sports betting in Canada. We dive into the best sportsbooks that provide Canadian bettors with an array of enticing opportunities. We cover the history and legal status of sports betting and explore the scene throughout the provinces and territories.
We also take a closer look at the country’s favored sports teams along with popular sportsbook bonuses and widely accepted payment methods. With our insight into these facets, you’ll be primed to elevate your wagering endeavors. Join us to gain a deeper understanding as we delve into the world of sports wagering in the Great White North.
Canada’s Best Online Sportsbooks
For bettors in search of the best Canadian sports betting sites, there is a plethora of popular options. These top-tier sportsbooks cater to a wide range of preferences and interests, ensuring that bettors are well-covered. In the following sections, we walk you through their offerings to help you grasp your choices.
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- Generous $1250 Welcome Bonus
- In-Play With Live Streaming
- Caesars Rewards Program
Caesars Sportsbook
Caesars Sportsbook shines as a top-tier option for Canadians seeking a remarkable sports betting adventure. Distinguished by its large selection of sports offerings, Caesars covers the gamut from the usual sports like hockey, football, soccer and basketball to the intense combat sports like boxing and MMA. The platform’s inclusivity extends to virtual racing and auto racing, perfect for those in pursuit of something beyond the mainstream.
However, it’s not just about the sports diversity – Caesars Sportsbook sets itself apart by elevating the excitement factor. Generous promotions are a hallmark, injecting extra value wagers and heightening the thrill of potential wins. These promotions reflect the platform’s dedication to ensuring a rewarding and enjoyable betting journey.
Recognizing the modern bettor’s need for flexibility, Caesars offers a stellar mobile app. This app delivers a seamless and feature-rich interface, providing users with the convenience of placing bets anytime, anywhere. Whether on a commute or during halftime, the mobile app brings the action to the palm of your hand.
Simplicity and intuitiveness of the platform's design
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Assortment of player, team, and game-specific wagers
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- Innovative Custom Bet Requests
- User-friendly Cash-Out Feature with No Fees
- Multilingual Interface and Support
bet365 Sportsbook
bet365 sits among the best Canadian sportsbooks due to its exceptional offerings and user-focused approach. Boasting an extensive range of sports markets that encompass both global and local events, bet365 caters comprehensively to the diverse preferences of Canadian sports enthusiasts. Its user-friendly interface, coupled with seamless navigation and live streaming capabilities, enhances the overall betting experience.
With competitive odds and in-play betting options, bettors can actively engage in matches as they unfold. Furthermore, the sportsbook’s emphasis on responsible gambling is evident through features such as deposit limits and self-exclusion tools, ensuring a safe and controlled wagering environment.
The availability of diverse payment methods, including those tailored to the Canadian market, adds to its appeal. bet365’s reputation for excellence, broad range of markets, live streaming services and dedication to sustainable gaming collectively establish it as a prime choice for sports betting in Canada.
Simplicity and intuitiveness of the platform's design
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Assortment of player, team, and game-specific wagers
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- Niche sports options like Hot Dog Eating Contest
- Dynamic and customizable bet limits up to $25,000
- Live-streaming in in-play betting section
BetRivers Sportsbook
BetRivers ascends as a premier choice for sports bettors in Canada. Known for its extensive selection of prop bets, this sportsbook delivers betting options that allow for all sorts of predictions.
The platform goes beyond the ordinary by featuring a wide variety of major sports leagues in addition to NASCAR, esports, UFC, darts, Formula 1 and rugby. Bettors can be certain there will always be something new to explore. One of BetRivers’ standout features is the iRush Rewards program, designed to reward player loyalty and enhance their overall betting journey.
BetRivers prides itself on providing lively and responsive customer support through its chat feature, seeing to it that users’ inquiries and concerns are promptly addressed. This emphasis on user satisfaction fosters an environment where bettors can confidently navigate the platform and be assisted in real-time.
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- Comprehensive Betting Resources
- Robust Search and Filter Tools
- Personalized Promotions
BetMGM Sportsbook
BetMGM emerges as a prominent player in the Canadian sports betting scene. Notably recognized for its enticing CFL betting lines and deep coverage of American sports leagues like the NFL, NBA, WNBA and even NCAA football, BetMGM caters to an array of sports enthusiasts. This in-depth coverage ensures that users can engage with their preferred leagues across a wide spectrum of events.
Beyond its broad sports selection, BetMGM amplifies its appeal with its generous promotions and the esteemed MGM Rewards program, both designed to elevate user value and engagement. These initiatives underscore its dedication to delivering tangible rewards and enhancing the overall betting journey.
BetMGM sets itself apart by catering to the strategic bettor, offering features such as the ability to easily customize parlays. A variety of markets, including moneylines, totals and spreads, offer bettors a rich array of options to tailor their strategies. Bolstered by an intuitive user interface, BetMGM provides Canadian bettors with a secure and immersive platform to indulge in exhilarating sports wagering.
How the sportsbook's odds stack up against competitors
Total number of different sports you can bet on
Variety in bet types like spread, moneyline, and totals
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- Generous Welcome Bonuses
- Dynasty Rewards Program Benefits
- Seamless User Experience
DraftKings Sportsbook
DraftKings Sportsbook stands as a frontrunner in the Canadian sports betting landscape, characterized by its robust array of features. The platform’s hallmark feature is its expansive portfolio of sports, ranging from crowd favorites to more specialized choices that cater to varied preferences. By accommodating both mainstream and niche interests, DraftKings ensures an inclusive and engaging betting experience.
DraftKings takes interactivity to the next level through its user-friendly interface and superb navigation. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or a newcomer, the online sports betting site’s intuitive design empowers users to place wagers effortlessly. The live betting functionality adds an extra layer of excitement, enabling bettors to capitalize on in-game developments and strategic opportunities.
A standout facet of DraftKings Sportsbook is its commitment to enhancing user value. The platform’s promotions, which encompass boosted odds, free bets and exclusive contests, transform each bet into a potentially more lucrative venture. This commitment to providing value resonates strongly with bettors.
Offers available upon initial signup
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- Variety of Odds Boosts
- Engaging Promotions
- Smooth Betting Interface
FanDuel Sportsbook
FanDuel solidifies its status as a superb sportsbook for Canadian bettors. Its offerings encompass not only major sports leagues along with golf and tennis but also extend to Australian rules, cycling, snooker, lacrosse and table tennis. The operator supplies a spectrum of sports betting markets, ranging from the standard moneylines, over/unders, parlays, futures and even alternative lines. This diverse arsenal allows bettors to implement strategies that align with their predictions and risk profiles.
The cash-out feature offered by FanDuel Sportsbook is a game-changer, empowering bettors to take the reins of their wagers. Whether it’s securing partial profits during a match or mitigating potential losses, this option places users in a position of command.
Another highlight is FanDuel’s enhanced odds feature. This attractive addition transforms regular wagers into thrilling opportunities by offering boosted odds. This means that a bettor’s potential winnings are amplified, injecting a heightened level of anticipation into every bet placed.
Offers available upon initial signup
Frequency and variety of regular promotions
Existence of a rewards program for frequent bettors
Availability of bonuses for referring new users
Availability and frequency of enhanced odds promotions
Clarity and accessibility of bonus terms and conditions
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- Daily Boosted Promotions
- "No Juice” Spreads
- User-Friendly Parlay Features
PointsBet Sportsbook
As a prominent player in the Canadian sports betting arena, PointsBet distinguishes itself through a range of compelling attributes. Live streaming fosters a thrilling and immersive encounter, enabling users to partake in the unfolding events in real-time. This experience is complemented by live chat support, ensuring immediate assistance and dependably quick user interaction.
PointsBet offers robust futures bets for the NFL and MLB and provides appealing lines on NCAAF as well as the prestigious English Premier League. This accommodating selection allows bettors to further indulge in their favorite sports. The platform’s adaptability shines through its user-friendly odds display, allowing bettors to seamlessly switch between formats that align with their preferences.
The sportsbook’s unwavering focus on responsible gambling is unmistakable. The platform takes a proactive stance by providing a wealth of resources designed to safeguard user well-being. With this emphasis, PointsBet helps users to maintain control over their betting activity.
Offers available upon initial signup
Frequency and variety of regular promotions
Existence of a rewards program for frequent bettors
Availability of bonuses for referring new users
Availability and frequency of enhanced odds promotions
Clarity and accessibility of bonus terms and conditions
Welcome to our detailed guide to the best online sportsbooks in the United States.
Sharpen your skills as a handicapper using our betting tutorials and resources.
Unibet Sportsbook
Unibet Sportsbook stands as a compelling choice for Canadian punters. In tandem with its diverse offerings, Unibet entices users with a stream of appealing promotions. This approach not only enthralls newcomers but also rewards the loyalty of long-standing members.
The daily profit boosts on offer highlight its commitment to player prosperity. These boosts amplify a bettor’s potential winnings and set Unibet apart as a platform that values its users’ success. The allure of accumulator betting becomes apparent through the operator’s parlay boosts. This unique feature enables bettors to maximize their returns on these multi-leg bets, providing the prospects of greater financial gains.
Unibet’s comprehensive range of betting markets and competitive odds, particularly for MLB, NFL, golf, NCAAF, UFC and WNBA, establish it as a premier hub for sports enthusiasts. This extensive coverage ensures that fans of varying disciplines can find and bet on their preferred games.
A Historical Timeline of Sports Betting in Canada
Within this timeline, you’ll discover the pivotal moments and regulatory shifts that have molded the course of sports betting in the country. By tracing its evolution from the beginning to the present day, we can better comprehend its ever-expanding nature. Take a look below to get the details on Canada’s current sports betting laws:
- May 2023: DraftKings and FanDuel join other sites to form a coalition and advocate for expanded online sports betting options in Quebec.
- April 2022: Ontario is the first province in Canada to see the arrival of prominent online operators such as FanDuel Sportsbook, BetMGM Sportsbook, Caesars Sportsbook and others.
- February 2022: Nova Scotia becomes the last Atlantic province to legalize single-game wagers.
- 2021: C-218 goes into effect in August, granting provinces the right to establish and manage single-event betting within their borders.
- 2020: Legislative efforts to expand sports betting increased with the introduction of C-218, also known as the Safe and Regulated Sports Betting Act. Similar to C-290, the legislation would allow provinces to authorize and regulate single-game wagering within their territories.
- 2012: A proposal is made to legalize single-game betting in Canada with Bill C-290. It is approved by the House of Commons but faces significant challenges in the Senate. Other attempts were made to pass C-290 in the following years, but they failed to gather the necessary support and did not progress.
- 1997: Sports Interaction emerges as one of the country’s first authorized online sportsbooks, owned and operated by Mohawk Online Unlimited.
- Early 1990s: Parlay betting is introduced in retail locations across multiple Canadian provinces.
- 1985: The Criminal Code is revised, formally ending the ban on sports betting in Canada. The amendment enables lottery organizations in each province to supply parlay betting options to their residents. Single-game wagering would remain prohibited in the country until 2021.
- 1969: The Criminal Code is amended to allow gambling for charitable purposes. This soon paves the way for provincial officials to establish lotteries to better fund programs within their territories.
- 1892: The Canadian government passes a law that forbids all types of gambling with the exception of horse racing betting.
This timeline provides a clear historical roadmap of sports betting’s evolution in Canada. The legal milestones and industry developments offer a comprehensive understanding of its journey. From prohibition to legalization, these dates reflect the nation’s changing perspectives and the industry’s dynamic growth.
Where is sports betting legal in Canada?
The following sections delve into the legality of sports wagering in Canada’s provinces and territories. We examine the range of legal sports betting options available, including traditional brick-and-mortar establishments and online betting sites. Read on to learn where else you can place sports bets in the Great White North.
Sports Betting in the Provinces
It is legal to bet on sports in all provinces in Canada, but each provincial government sets its own regulations. Single-game sports betting is available from Alberta to Saskatchewan. Ontario has the largest industry and is currently the only province to welcome and host major online sportsbooks like BetMGM, DraftKings and FanDuel. However, many experts speculate that increased opportunities will soon arise in other regions.
While primarily being licensed to operate in Ontario, sites like bet365 and Sports Interaction accept wagers from Canadian bettors located all over. The presence of retail sportsbooks is particularly limited in British Columbia, Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island and Saskatchewan. Even so, retailers like convenience stores or gas stations will generally provide the option.
Betting on Sports in the Territories
Single-event sports betting became available in the Northwest Territories, Nunavut and Yukon in November 2021. There is a minimal range of betting options to be found within the territories, and they all lack in-person sportsbooks. Residents are able to access online wagering through Sport Select, a platform approved by the Western Canada Lottery Corporation (WCLC). The WCLC oversees sports wagering in all three territories.
Exploring Online Sports Betting in Canada
In the following sections, we will delve more into the multifaceted world of online sports betting in Canada. We’ll start by unpacking each of the popular sportsbook bonuses and promotions. We will also explain the various ways they can enhance a bettor’s wagering experience.
We’ll additionally shed light on the different commonly accepted payment methods, ensuring that bettors have a comprehensive understanding of how to securely fund their accounts. Lastly, we’ll explore the country’s renowned professional sports teams admired among betting fans.
PROMOTIONS & BONUSES AT CANADA’S BEST SPORTSBOOKS
The top sportsbooks in Canada provide a variety of promotions and bonuses. These bonuses, such as welcome offers and ongoing promotions are a crucial part of the betting experience. When sportsbooks offer these promotions, the aim is to attract new bettors and keep existing ones engaged. Check out some of the most common promotions below:
- Welcome Bonuses: A welcoming gesture for new bettors, these bonuses provide extra value upon a user’s initial deposit and often include bonus bets.
- Deposit Bonuses: Deposit bonuses boost bettors’ bankrolls by matching a portion of their deposited amount, enhancing their wagering potential.
- Odds Boosts: Odds boosts amplify potential payouts by offering enhanced odds on specific bets or events.
- Loyalty Programs: Loyalty programs reward consistent bettors with perks like cashback and exclusive promotions, fostering a strong connection between bettors and sportsbooks.
Promotions and bonuses provided by Canada’s premier sportsbooks allow bettors to unlock added value and elevate their wagering journey. Whether through enticing welcome bonuses, deposit incentives, odds boosts or loyalty programs, these offerings enrich the betting experience
ACCEPTED PAYMENT METHODS AT CANADIAN BETTING SITES
Efficiently managing transactions is crucial when engaging with Canadian betting sites. To facilitate this, widely accepted payment methods include major credit and debit cards like Visa and MasterCard, ensuring swift and familiar transactions. Additionally, e-wallets such as PayPal and Skrill offer a secure and contemporary alternative.
- Credit Cards: Credit cards, exemplified by Visa and MasterCard, provide an expedient and commonly used method for depositing funds.
- Debit Cards: Debit cards offer easy means for bettors to use the funds they have available.
- E-Wallets & P2P Payments: E-wallets like PayPal and P2P payment systems present modern solutions for seamless and secure fund transfers at online sportsbooks.
- Bank Transfers: Bank transfers remain a trusted and straightforward method for bettors to initiate direct transfers from their bank accounts to their betting accounts.
Understanding the spectrum of supported banking options at Canadian sportsbooks is essential for efficient transactions. No matter if you opt for the convenience of credit and debit cards, the digital efficiency of e-wallets and P2P payments or the familiarity of bank transfers, bettors can confidently select the method that aligns with their preferences.
FAVORED TEAMS AMONG CANADIAN SPORTS BETTORS
The vibrancy of Canada’s betting scene can be illustrated by the fervor evoked by its popular sports teams. Spanning the NHL, CFL, MLB and NBA, these teams represent the pinnacle of sports excellence. Their participation in these major leagues brings bettors ample chances to get action and enjoy the competition. We provide a brief overview of Canada’s most well-known and loved professional teams below.
- Toronto Maple Leafs (NHL): A favorite among Canadian bettors, the Toronto Maple Leafs compete in the National Hockey League. This elite team is represented by the colors blue and white. They have won 13 Stanley Cups and six division championships.
- Montreal Canadiens (NHL): Another powerhouse National Hockey League team is the Montreal Canadiens. The Canadiens’ team colors are red, white and blue. They have won an impressive 24 Stanley Cups, eight conference championships and 24 division titles.
- Winnipeg Blue Bombers (CFL): Based in Manitoba, the Winnipeg Blue Bombers have reached the Grey Cup more than any other team in the Canadian Football League. Their colors are royal blue, gold and white and they have won 12 Grey Cups.
- Toronto Argonauts (CFL): The Argonauts wear Cambridge and Oxford Blue. They have 18 Grey Cup titles and are based in Toronto.
Toronto Blue Jays (MLB): The Toronto Blue Jays stand as Canada’s only Major League Baseball team. Their colors are royal and navy blue, red and white. The Blue Jays have won two World Series championships and six division titles.
Toronto Raptors (NBA): The National Basketball Association’s sole Canadian team is the Toronto Raptors. They are represented by red, black, purple, gold and white. This standout team has won one championship, one conference title and seven division titles.
These professional teams are favorites among Canada’s betting fans. With the top online sportsbooks, Canadian punters can wager on these in addition to a plethora of international events and niche sports.
A Wrap-up of Sports Betting in Canada
In the ultimate guide to Canada sports betting, we’ve given bettors essential knowledge and insights. We’ve touched on the best online sportsbooks available to Canadians that offer an all-encompassing range of sports markets, enhanced odds, live streaming and attractive promotions. We’ve traced the evolution of sports betting from its prohibition to legalization and examined its scope across the provinces and territories.
Remember that the sports betting industry in Canada is evolving. Each province has its own regulatory framework for the activity, so you will want to make sure to stay informed about new developments for your region. With that, you’re now primed to place wagers at the best sportsbooks in the Great White North.
Canada Sports Betting: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I do sports betting in Canada?
Yes, you can bet on sports in Canada. It has been legal since 1985 and in recent years, the country has seen the arrival of major sportsbooks such as BetMGM, Caesars, DraftKings, FanDuel and others.
Does Canada allow online gambling?
Online gambling is allowed in Canada. Each province has its own regulations for the activity, but gambling is legal with licensed and authorized online platforms.
Can I use DraftKings in Canada?
DraftKings is available for daily fantasy sports in many provinces throughout the country. DraftKings Sportsbook is currently only live in Ontario, however.
Do you have to pay taxes on sports betting winnings in Canada?
If you are betting on sports recreationally in Canada, your winnings will generally not be taxed.
Can you use Barstool Sportsbook in Canada?
Unfortunately, Barstool Sportsbook is only available to bettors located in the United States.
