The statistics are clear: Quebecers are among the biggest gamblers in Canada. It's worth noting that since the lockdown, interest in online gambling has been steadily increasing in the province. However, there is a legal framework to understand if you're new to this industry.


According to a Concordia University study, online gambling in Quebec nearly tripled between 2018 and 2021. This study, which examined online gambling habits in Quebec during the pandemic, reveals that Espacejeux, Loto-Québec's online platform, saw a 171% increase in revenue in 2020-2021. That year, Loto-Québec's total revenue approached the $3 billion mark.

It is clear, therefore, that playing online casino games is one of Quebecers' favorite pastimes. If you play or are considering playing at an online casino in Quebec, it is essential that you understand the legal framework in order to make informed choices and avoid unpleasant surprises. Here is an overview.


Who regulates online casinos in Quebec?


Amendments to the Canadian Criminal Code in 1969 and 2010 made it possible to establish and legally operate online gambling in Quebec and all other provinces. It was also in 2010 that Loto-Québec, the corporation responsible for operating and developing the online gaming industry in the province, launched its online casino site, Espacejeux.com.

This Crown corporation holds a legal monopoly over Quebec's four land-based casinos, its two gaming halls, and the online casino. In practical terms, this means that Loto-Québec regulates everything related to online casinos in Quebec.


Legally speaking, Espacejeux is the only officially recognized and authorized online gaming platform to operate legally in Quebec. As for international online casino sites available in the province, they fall into a grey area.


Is it legal to play at international online casinos in Quebec?


The Canadian Criminal Code permits online casino games, provided they are offered by a state-run entity. Otherwise, it is illegal. This means that international online casinos are prohibited from offering their services within Canadian provinces. However, the law does not explicitly prohibit Canadians from playing on foreign sites if they so choose.

That said, they have little local legal protection. They can, however, rely on the international jurisdictions that have granted licenses to these operators. It is therefore important that they choose operators with reputable international licenses.


Many international online casinos accept players from Quebec. Most are licensed in other jurisdictions such as Malta, Curaçao, Kahnawake, and others. These licenses have a very good reputation in the industry, which is why players generally trust sites that hold them.


But industry experts are needed to analyze these operators and determine if they are licensed and if they truly meet players' needs in terms of games, payment options, and customer service quality. In Quebec, players primarily seek platforms that comply with local regulations.

This is what casino.ca offers , providing a dedicated section for Quebec players, including information on the legal framework and provincial realities. When professionals with years of experience in the sector offer selections of analyzed and ranked operators, the choice becomes easier and more consistent.


How does Quebec protect online casino players?


Quebec is committed to protecting players on its official online casino platform. Therefore, when you play slots, blackjack, roulette, baccarat, or poker on Espacejeux, for example, you can do so with peace of mind, as you benefit from several protection guarantees :

  • Strict age verification (18 years and over)
  • Self-exclusion tools
  • Customizable deposit limits
  • Responsible gambling measures
  • Protection of personal data
  • Legal protection in case of disputes

Quebec's legal framework emphasizes the prevention of excessive gambling and prioritizes public health. For their part, international online casinos operating in Quebec also place player protection at the heart of their policies, provided they are properly licensed. Many of them promote responsible gambling and implement security measures.


Are winnings from online casinos in Quebec taxable?


Under Canadian law, winnings from online gambling are not taxable , primarily because it is considered entertainment. Playing online casino games is not considered work or an income-generating activity for recreational players. Since Quebec is subject to federal law, this also applies to Quebec residents.

Whether your winnings come from the Loto-Québec platform or a foreign online casino, they are not taxed. However, the situation is different for professional players. Once it becomes a professional activity, you must pay income tax.


Understanding the legal framework for gambling in Quebec is essential to ensuring a peaceful and beneficial entertainment experience.