Gambling has taken the world by storm, and Canada is not an exception. Players are making record-breaking wins on gambling sites every day in Canada. Thus, the government has imposed various regulations and rules on gambling sites and players in order to regulate the industry. But since these legislations are subject to territorial and provincial laws, they can be a little confusing. Fortunately, this guide will make you know about the current legislation on online gambling in Canada, the pros and cons of online gambling, and the most frequently asked questions. Please read on to learn more.
Canada Gambling Criminal Code Regulation
Before 1969, you could only bet on horse races and charity lotteries in Canada. The law didn't allow any other form of gambling. However, the government made changes in the criminal code that year to allow other forms of gambling in Canada. The federal government decided to hand over all gambling regulations to provinces by 1985. However, up to date, the criminal code has not changed in terms of regulations of betting. These are some of the regulations.
Section 201
The section makes it illegal to run a betting house or to be found with one. But the section is silent on the online betting house, so no one can clearly say whether Canadian poker sites or online casinos fall under the same category.
Section 203
The section says that no person should place bets on behalf of others.
Section 205
Suggests that it is illegal for anyone to have a relation with lotteries of games of chance.
Section 207
The section directs that the provincial governments are permitted to manage lottery schemes alone. Other provincial governments can assist them. Also, the section provides that lotteries are lawful if they are used for religious or charitable organizations. However, such use must be licensed by Lieutenant Governor in Council.
Other New Legislation of Gambling in Canada
When it comes to online gambling, Canadian gambling laws are pretty vague. While the Canadian criminal code regulates legal and illegal gaming in Canada, it does not prohibit playing online casinos from other countries as long as they have not placed a barn on Canada. However, according to the regulations, online casinos must provide safety of customers' deposits and maintain the fairness of play. Also, they should not run misleading advertisements, and gaming should not be opened to any person who has not attained the legal age.
Pros and Cons of Online Canada Gaming
Canadian Citizens have the right to participate in online gaming as long as they have attained the legal age of entering gaming. Generally, the legal age to gamble in Canada is 19 years, but some states allow 18 years as the legal age for gambling. If you have attained this age and want to join gambling, it is best to understand some of the advantages and disadvantages you might encounter. Some of them are listed here.
1. It Is Entertaining and Exciting
It is not advisable to participate in online gambling to earn money. It should be purely for entertainment reasons. If you aim to earn money but end up losing, you might not enjoy the game. Well, you should earn some money since you are using money, but you should strike a balance between entertainment and money. I mean, when done properly, it is the source of excitement and entertainment.
2. Appropriate For all Budgets
Do you know that most online casinos in Canada allow less than a $10 deposit? Yes, you can participate in gambling even when you have a constrained budget. As long as you are gambling for entertainment and excitement, you can stake any amount and enjoy the outcome.
3. Offers Maximum Privacy and Fairness
Customer privacy is one of the best essential things to most online gambling sites in Canada. Ensure that you are gambling at a reputable and regulated site, and you will not need to worry about your privacy. Gambling companies are restricted by sharing their customers' online activities and personal information with the third party. Also, you don't have to worry after winnings since there is no way you can be shortchanged.
Disadvantages of Online Gambling
There are few cons you might encounter gambling in Canada, as illustrated here.
1. Long Cashout Time
Your winnings don't go directly to your bank accounts after winning. It would be best if you initiated the cash-out or transfer process. Sometimes, this is not instant, and it might take 4 to 5 hours before your money gets to your bank accounts. This is too much wait time. However, in some cases, the process is faster and only takes five minutes.
2. Transaction Fees
Transferring your money from your betting account to your bank account is not free. You are charged a small transaction cost. However, there are few sites which don't charge transaction cost. It is advisable to gamble with such sites.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. I Am below 18 years. Can I participate in Canadian online gaming?
No, the legal age for gambling in Canada is 19 years. However, there are states (Quebec, Manitoba and Alberta) which allow legal gambling for 18 years and above gamblers.
2. Am I guaranteed to get my winnings?
Yes, all casinos are certified to be fair and secure. There are regulations put in place to ensure that customers are not shortchanged their winnings.
3. Can I use CAD to gamble online?
Yes, it is the best way you should be gambling. If you gamble using other countries' currency, you will end up paying Forex rates.
4. I am addicted to gambling. What should I do?
Gambling can be addictive, and therefore if you feel that you have been addicted, seek immediate help. There are various organizations and charities throughout Canada that are ready to assist you.
