Ontario Court Approves Cross Border Online Gaming Expansion
The Ontario Court of Appeal has approved a significant regulatory shift by allowing residents to participate in online gaming with players outside Canada. This landmark 4–1 decision clarifies the interpretation of the Criminal Code and removes a major barrier that previously restricted international player-pool access. The ruling confirms that Ontario may regulate players within its jurisdiction even when they engage in games involving participants located globally, a position supported by Chief Justice Michael Tulloch’s majority opinion.
This development is particularly impactful for games such as poker and daily fantasy sports, which depend on substantial player pools to function competitively. Under Ontario’s existing framework, players could only compete within provincial boundaries, limiting growth opportunities and reducing market efficiency. By enabling cross-border participation, the decision is expected to strengthen the regulated ecosystem, draw players away from offshore platforms, and enhance consumer protection through verified oversight and responsible-gaming measures.
Industry experts, including the Canadian Gaming Association, have welcomed the ruling for expanding choice and supporting a safer, regulated environment. Ontario’s iGaming market, managed by iGaming Ontario, is projected to generate significant revenue growth, with the ruling expected to further improve participation and competitiveness. Opposing provinces have raised concerns regarding jurisdictional control and player migration, and they retain a 60-day window to appeal the decision. Should the case reach the Supreme Court, it may lead to broader national guidance on cross-border online gaming laws.
The ruling positions Ontario as a leader in modernising online gambling regulations and may influence other provinces to reevaluate their policies. If successful, this model could pave the way for international partnerships, expanded market innovation, and a more unified Canadian iGaming landscape.
