Best Poker Sites in Canada: Online Poker Sites for Canadian Players
Online poker has become increasingly popular in Canada, offering players a wide array of platforms to test their skills and enjoy the game. With a diverse selection of online poker sites available, Canadian players can choose from both internationally renowned platforms and region-specific options. Understanding the legal landscape and regional preferences is essential for a safe and enjoyable online poker experience.
This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the best poker sites and the legal considerations for players in Canada.
Best Canadian Poker Sites for 2025
The Canadian online poker scene is dynamic and multifaceted, catering to a broad spectrum of players. From casual enthusiasts to seasoned professional poker players, the availability of various platforms ensures that every player finds a suitable environment. Some of the world’s best poker players hail from Canada, including the world-renowned Daniel Negreanu, and it continues to be a premier location for playing online poker.
Canada Online Poker Laws & Regulations
In Canada, the legality of online poker is determined by a combination of federal and provincial laws. The Criminal Code of Canada sets the overarching legal framework for gambling activities, while individual provinces have the authority to regulate and license online gaming within their jurisdictions. This decentralized approach results in varying regulations across the country.
For instance, Ontario has established a regulated online gambling market. In contrast, provinces such as Alberta and Saskatchewan do not have specific provincial platforms but permit residents to access international online poker sites without legal repercussions. It’s imperative for players to familiarize themselves with their respective provincial regulations to ensure compliance and a secure gaming experience.
Popular Provinces for Online Poker
Several Canadian provinces stand out for their active online poker communities and regulatory frameworks:
- Ontario: Launched its regulated online gaming market on April 4, 2022, requiring all sites to be licensed by iGaming Ontario. Players must be physically located within the province to participate, and the player pool is segregated from international players.
- British Columbia and Manitoba: Both provinces offer government-regulated online poker platforms, and residents can also access various international sites, providing a diverse gaming experience.
- Quebec: Operates its own state-run online poker platform, while also allowing access to international platforms. The legal gambling age in Quebec is 18.
Poker-Related Taxes in Canada
In Canada, the taxation of poker winnings depends on the player’s status. Casual players who do not rely on poker as their primary source of income are not required to pay taxes on their winnings.
Individuals who play poker with the intention of generating a steady income are considered to be operating a business. Consequently, the winnings of professional Canadian poker players are subject to income tax and they can also deduct related expenses such as travel and tournament fees.
Top Canadian Poker Sites in 2025 (Reviewed & Rated)
In 2025, Canadian poker fans have access to several leading online platforms, each offering unique features and gaming experiences. The following sections provide an overview of the top poker sites available to players in Canada.
PokerStars CA
PokerStars Canada is the best online poker site, boasting thousands of cash game ring players every week. This impressive traffic guarantees a lively environment and opportunities for varied gameplay. The platform’s team includes poker professionals such as Andre Akkari, Muskan Sethi and Lex Veldhuis, which adds to the site’s prestige.
While Texas Hold’em remains the dominant game, players can also enjoy other formats like Omaha, Seven-Card Stud, Five-Card Draw, Razz, 2-7 Triple Draw, HORSE, and Six-Plus Hold’em. PokerStars is particularly known for its packed tournament schedule, featuring weekly events and major series like SCOOP and WCOOP, catering to players with low, mid, and high stakes alike.
GGPoker CA
GGPoker Canada is one of the best online sites that has quickly risen in popularity among players, offering an impressive selection of Texas Hold’em and Omaha games at stakes ranging from micro limits to high-stakes tables. Online poker site in Canada also brings unique poker variants like Flip & Go, All-In or Fold, and Rush & Cash, providing creative twists that keep gameplay fresh.
Its tournament offerings are equally robust, with daily guarantees and options for all bankroll sizes. Notable features include satellites to the World Series of Poker Main Event and exclusive tournament series such as GGMasters and MILLION$. With ambassadors like Canadian poker legend Daniel Negreanu, Dan Bilzerian, and Elky, GGPoker solidifies its reputation as one of the top destinations for online poker.
888Poker CA
888Poker Canada is widely recognized for delivering a comprehensive and engaging poker experience. While Texas Hold’em is the main attraction, players can also enjoy Omaha and Seven-Card Stud formats in both cash games and tournaments. One of the platform’s standout features is SNAP Poker, a fast-fold format that ensures you’re never waiting long between hands.
The tournament schedule is consistently busy, offering regular opportunities for competitive play alongside special event series that add variety and excitement. With its broad gaming options and dynamic pace, 888Poker remains a favorite poker room for many players.
PartyPoker CA
A trusted name in the online poker industry, PartyPoker Canada maintains its place as a reliable and user-friendly platform. New players are welcomed with a generous sign-up package, including a deposit bonus and tournament MTT tickets to get started.
Online poker site in Canada provides a balanced mix of cash games and tournaments, with its multi-table tournament (MTT) series offering manageable player fields and solid guarantees. These features make the platform particularly attractive to players who value quality and accessibility in their poker experience.
WPT Global CA
WPT Global brings the prestige of the World Poker Tour straight to Canadian poker enthusiasts. The platform offers a strong lineup of cash games and tournaments, along with qualifiers for live WPT events, creating a seamless connection between online and live poker. With consistently high traffic levels, players can always find active games.
Additionally, WPT Global features engaging promotions such as leaderboards and competitive tournament offerings. Popular games like Texas Hold’em, Omaha, and Short Deck meet the needs of a diverse poker audience, making WPT Global a standout choice for players in 2025.
Best Poker Bonuses for Canadian Poker Players
For Canadian poker enthusiasts, finding the best bonuses is key to maximizing their bankroll and enhancing their gaming experience. Online poker sites in Canada offer a variety of bonuses, ranging from generous welcome packages to ongoing cashback deals and leaderboard rewards.
Welcome Bonuses
Welcome bonuses are designed to attract new players by offering lucrative incentives on their first deposit:
- WPT Global – Offers an impressive 100% cashback on first deposit, up to $3,000, providing new players with a substantial boost to their bankroll.
- 888Poker – New players who make a first deposit of $10 or more receive a 100% welcome bonus up to $1,000, allowing them to double their initial deposit.
- PartyPoker – Provides a 100% matched bonus up to $700, plus an additional $40in tournament tickets, offering a combination of extra funds and free play opportunities.
- GGPoker – Gives players the option of either $100 in free tickets & Cash Game Dollars (C$) or a 100% matched bonus up to $600 on their first deposit, catering to different preferences.
- PokerStars – offers a 100% bonus up to $600, giving players a free poker bonus equal to the amount of their first deposit.
Reload Bonuses
Reload bonuses are offered to existing players when they make subsequent deposits. These promotions on poker sites for real money are designed to keep players engaged by providing extra value on future deposits. The typical reload bonus is a percentage match, such as 50% or 100%, up to a specified amount.
Rakeback & Cashback Offers
Rakeback and cashback promotions reward players by returning a portion of the rake or fees they generate while playing. This type of bonus is particularly beneficial for high-volume players, as it reduces the overall cost of playing. Cashback rates vary, but the more a player contributes in rake, the higher their potential rebate.
Leaderboards & Freerolls
Leaderboards and freerolls provide players with the opportunity to compete for extra prizes without making additional investments.
Leaderboards reward top-performing players in cash games or tournaments with cash prizes, tickets, or tournament entries. They motivate players to stay active and improve their skills while competing for additional rewards.
Freerolls are free-entry tournaments where players can win real money or tickets without paying a buy-in. They offer a risk-free way to build a bankroll and gain experience playing free online poker tournaments, making them especially attractive to recreational players.
Most Popular Online Poker Formats in Canada
Online poker continues to thrive in Canada, offering players a wide variety of game formats suited to different skill levels and preferences. Whether they enjoy the strategic depth of cash games, the competitive nature of tournaments, or the fast-paced action of jackpot-style games, players have plenty of options to explore. Here are the most popular online poker formats in Canada:
- Cash Games (No-Limit Hold’em, Pot-Limit Omaha, etc.): Cash games are played with real money, and the chips on the table represent actual cash value. Players can join or leave at any time, making it a flexible format. The most common variations include No-Limit Hold’em (NLHE), known for its open betting structure, and Pot-Limit Omaha (PLO), a high-action game with larger pots due to the four hole cards dealt to each player.
- Tournaments (MTTs, SNGs, Satellites): Tournaments offer players the chance to compete for large prize pools with a fixed buy-in. Once a player runs out of chips, they are eliminated unless rebuys are allowed. The main types include:
- Multi-Table Tournaments (MTTs): Large-scale events with many players, where the goal is to survive and secure a top payout.
- Sit & Go (SNG) Tournaments: Smaller, single-table or short-field tournaments that begin as soon as all seats are filled.
- Satellites: Qualifier tournaments that award entry into larger events, often with high-stakes buy-ins.
- Fast-Fold Poker: Fast-fold poker is designed for players seeking rapid action. After folding a hand, players are instantly moved to a new table with fresh opponents. This format significantly increases the number of hands played per hour, making it ideal for action-oriented players who want to maximize their volume.
- Short Deck Poker: Short Deck Poker, also known as Six-Plus Hold’em, is a variant of Texas Hold’em played with a 36-card deck, with all twos, threes, fours, and fives removed. This leads to more frequent strong hands and bigger pots, creating a high-variance, action-packed game popular among experienced players.
- Jackpot Sit & Go: Jackpot Sit & Go tournaments are three-handed, fast-paced games where the prize pool is determined randomly before play begins. The payout can vary significantly, with multipliers sometimes reaching thousands of times the initial buy-in. Their quick format and potential for massive payouts make them particularly appealing to recreational players.
Banking Options at Canadian Poker Sites
Canadian poker sites offer a wide variety of banking options to ensure secure and convenient transactions for players. Common payment methods include credit and debit cards such as Visa and MasterCard, which remain popular due to their simplicity and widespread acceptance.
For those preferring e-wallet solutions, Neteller, MuchBetter, Skrill, and EcoPayz are excellent choices, offering fast deposits and withdrawals. Interac e-Transfer is a favored option among Canadians for its seamless integration with local banks and high level of security.
Additional options like wire transfers and Paysafecard provide further flexibility, accommodating the unique preferences of a diverse player base.
How to Choose the Best Poker Site in Canada
Choosing the best poker site in Canada requires careful consideration of several factors to ensure a satisfying and secure gaming experience. Each player has different priorities, but there are universal elements to evaluate when selecting a poker platform:
- Game Selection – Choose a platform that offers a wide range of poker variants such as Texas Hold’em, Omaha and Stud to suit your specific preferences. The best online poker site should offer a diverse library of games to ensure there is always something new to try and keep your poker experience fresh.
- Friendly Interface – A clean and user-friendly interface makes navigating the site effortless, allowing you to focus on the game rather than struggling with confusing menus. An intuitive design enhances your overall experience, especially for beginners who may be unfamiliar with online poker platforms. Smooth transitions and easy-to-locate features are essential.
- Payment Methods – Ensure the site offers a variety of secure and convenient banking options, such as credit cards and e-wallets. Flexible payment methods make it easier for players from different regions to deposit and withdraw funds. Safety is key, so verify the platform uses secure transaction systems to protect your financial data.
- Withdrawal Speeds – Fast and hassle-free withdrawals are critical for a positive user experience. Nobody wants to wait weeks to access their winnings, so prioritize platforms that process cashouts quickly. Look for transparent policies regarding withdrawal limits and timelines.
- Special Features – Exclusive promotions, leaderboards, and innovative game formats can significantly enhance the excitement of playing poker online. These features not only keep the experience engaging but also provide opportunities to win rewards and compete with other players. A site that regularly offers bonuses adds extra value for dedicated players.
- Mobile Poker Experience – A responsive, well-designed mobile app ensures you can play poker anytime, anywhere, without sacrificing quality. Mobile optimization enables smooth gameplay on smaller screens, making it perfect for players on the go. Look for apps with intuitive designs and features tailored to mobile users.
- Platform Security – Always check for a platform that is licensed and employs robust encryption measures to protect your personal and financial information. A secure site ensures fair gameplay and provides peace of mind while you enjoy your games. Reputable platforms also display their licensing and security credentials prominently.
- Customer Support – Reliable and responsive customer support is essential for resolving any issues you may encounter quickly. Look for platforms that offer 24/7 support through multiple channels, such as live chat, email, or phone. A dedicated support team shows the platform values its players and prioritizes their experience.
Best Poker Apps in Canada for 2025
Mobile poker apps are an essential part of the online gaming experience for Canadians. Leading platforms offer dedicated apps that allow players to enjoy real money mobile poker games anytime, anywhere:
Mobile apps allow users to access cash games, tournaments, and Sit & Go events directly from their smartphones or tablets. The user-friendly interfaces and smooth navigation ensure a seamless experience, with features like multi-tabling, quick seat selection, and responsive controls optimized for both iOS and Android devices. Security is also a major advantage, as these apps use encrypted transactions and secure payment methods, allowing players to deposit, withdraw, and manage their accounts safely.
With multi-platform syncing, players can switch between desktop and mobile devices without losing their progress.
Online Poker Canada FAQs
Is it legal to play online poker for real money in Canada?
Yes, it is legal to play real money poker in Canada. While the Criminal Code prohibits unregulated gambling, it allows provinces and territories to regulate and license gambling activities within their jurisdictions.
Who regulates online poker in Canada?
In Canada, the regulation of online poker falls under the jurisdiction of individual provinces and territories. Each region has its own regulatory body responsible for overseeing gambling activities. For example, online poker in Ontario operates under controls, while the rest of Canada has different approaches.
Are Canadian poker sites safe and secure?
Yes, Canadian real money poker sites are safe and secure, especially those regulated by provincial authorities or reputable international jurisdictions. These platforms employ advanced security measures, such as encryption technologies, to protect players’ personal and financial information. To ensure a safe experience, players should choose sites that are properly licensed and have positive reputations within the online poker community.
How many poker sites accept Canadian players?
Numerous online poker rooms accept players, including both provincially regulated platforms and international operators. The exact number fluctuates as the online gaming market evolves, but Canadians have access to a wide range of reputable poker sites offering various games and tournaments.
Where can I play poker online in Canada?
Players in Canada can access online poker through provincially regulated platforms and international sites that accept Canadian participants. For instance, top online poker sites like PokerStars, GGPoker, and WPT Global offer their services to Canadians.
Is there a tax on poker winnings in Canada?
In Canada, gambling winnings, including those from poker, are generally not considered taxable income for casual players. However, if an individual is deemed to be conducting gambling activities as a business, such as a professional online poker player, their winnings may be subject to taxation. The determination depends on factors like the player’s intent, frequency of play, and reliance on gambling as a source of income.
How do I deposit money on poker sites in Canada?
After registering an account with Canadian online poker sites and completing any necessary identity verification, they can navigate to the site’s cashier or banking section. Here, players choose their preferred deposit method, such as credit cards, e-wallets like Skrill or Neteller, bank transfers, or prepaid cards. They then enter the deposit amount and provide the required payment details. Once the transaction is confirmed, the funds are usually available in the player’s account promptly, allowing them to participate in real-money games.
Is it legal to play on offshore poker sites from Canada?
Yes, it is legal for Canadians to play on offshore poker sites. While the Criminal Code restricts unregulated gambling operations within Canada, it does not prohibit individuals from accessing and playing on international online poker platforms. Many Canadians participate in online poker through these offshore sites without legal repercussions.
How do I start playing online poker in Canada?
To start playing real money online poker in Canada, follow these steps: Choose a reputable poker site, Create an account, Deposit funds, Select a game and start play.
How do withdrawals work on Canadian poker sites?
Withdrawals on Canadian poker sites are processed through various methods, including e-wallets and bank transfers. The availability of specific withdrawal options depends on the platform. Withdrawal times can vary, ranging from a few hours to several business days, depending on the method chosen and the site’s processing policies.
Can I play online poker in Canada on my phone?
Yes, many online poker platforms offer mobile applications or mobile-optimized websites, allowing players to enjoy online poker games in Canada on smartphones and tablets.
What are the best online poker tournaments for Canadian players?
Canadian poker players can participate in a wide range of online tournaments. The sites listed, such as PokerStars, GGPoker, and PartyPoker host popular series, including the World Championship of Online Poker (WCOOP) and the Spring Championship of Online Poker (SCOOP). Additionally, regular Sunday majors, bounty tournaments, and satellites for bigger events are available.
How big is the real-money online poker market in Canada?
The real-money online poker market in Canada is substantial, with a significant number of players participating across various platforms. While exact figures are not readily available, Canada’s strong poker community and the presence of major international online casinos with poker games point to a robust and active market.
Where can I play live poker in Canada?
Live poker is available at numerous land-based casinos across Canada. Major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal host casinos with dedicated poker rooms offering cash games and tournaments.
What is the legal gambling age for poker in Canada?
In Canada, the legal gambling age for poker varies by province and territory. In most regions, including British Columbia, Ontario, and Saskatchewan, individuals must be at least 19 years old to participate in gambling activities such as poker. However, in provinces like Alberta, Manitoba, and Quebec, the minimum age is 18.
User Comments
Playnow is licensed and regulated by the BC government and run by the BC Lottery Corporation which is a Crown Corporation run by the BC Government. They have agreements with Manitoba and Quebec which run PlayNow Manitoba and Espace Jeux which all share a player pool so you can only play in those 3 provinces.
all your sites are americain based a pain in the ass getting on sites i want to use my debit card from compess credit union.
Thanks for the feedback Dale, we’ll look into it.
Is PlayNow Poker a crooked game?
Can other players see my cards or do some players know what cards are coming next?
There something is really wrong here!!
Hey Abe,
We can’t really recommend playing PlayNow Poker as they don’t seem to have a gambling license – which means you have no guaranteed security or player rights.
However, we do recommend all the poker sites you see on this page and the best poker sites overall here.