Ontario Gambling Licence
Largest regulated iGaming market in North America with strong player protection framework.
What this licence covers
Ontario opened its regulated iGaming market in April 2022 under iGaming Ontario (iGO), a subsidiary of the AGCO. Operators must be registered with iGO and hold an AGCO registration. This gives access to Canada's largest province and most lucrative iGaming market, with strong regulatory oversight and player protection.
Pros
- Access to largest North American regulated market
- Strong regulatory framework protects operators and players
- High ARPU market with mature player base
- Growing esports and sports betting segments
- Clear compliance path for established operators
Cons
- High entry costs and ongoing compliance burden
- Strict advertising and responsible gaming standards
- Limited to Ontario market only
- Requires local operational substance
- Registration process takes 4 to 8 months
Who should consider this licence
Established operators with proven track records targeting North American market entry.
How to obtain a Ontario licence
Phased process for the Ontario under Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario. Typical timeline: 4 to 8 months.
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Phase 1 01
AGCO supplier and operator registration pre-check
AGCO suitability assessment of corporate structure, beneficial owners and key persons. Existing Tier 1 licence strongly preferred by AGCO.
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Phase 2 02
iGaming Ontario operator agreement
Operator agreement with iGO (iGaming Ontario) executed. Revenue share terms agreed. Canadian legal entity or operating subsidiary established.
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Phase 3 03
AGCO registration application
Full AGCO registration application submitted including corporate documents, AML policy, responsible gambling programme and technical platform description.
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Phase 4 04
Compliance programme and technical review
AGCO technical review of gaming system and player protection tools. Responsible gambling and advertising standards compliance confirmed.
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Phase 5 05
Registration granted and market launch
AGCO registration issued and iGO agreement activated. Operator listed on iGO-approved operator list. Ontario market operations commence.
Ontario licence questions
- What is the difference between AGCO and iGaming Ontario?
- AGCO (Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario) is the regulator that issues registrations. iGaming Ontario (iGO) is the Crown agency that contracts with operators and manages the regulated market framework.
- Do I need an existing gambling licence to enter Ontario?
- AGCO strongly prefers applicants who hold a recognised Tier 1 licence such as Malta MGA, UKGC, Gibraltar or Isle of Man. It is not a hard requirement but significantly accelerates approval.
- How large is the Ontario iGaming market?
- Ontario is the largest regulated iGaming market in North America. Since opening in April 2022, the market has exceeded CAD $60 billion in wagers annually across casino, sports betting and poker.
- Can an Ontario registration be used in other Canadian provinces?
- No - Ontario registration authorises operations in Ontario only. Other provinces such as British Columbia and Quebec have separate regulated frameworks.
We handle the paperwork. You handle the product.
Application support, corporate structuring, compliance setup and platform integration in one package. Scoped roadmap within 48 hours.