Step-by-step manual
Self-exclusion in Canada
Self-exclusion in Canada is run by each province, so the route depends on where you live and how you gamble. In Ontario, iGaming Ontario's BetGuard platform, launched in 2026, lets one registration cover every regulated online gambling site in the province. Alberta built a centralised self-exclusion programme into its July 2026 online market launch. In other provinces, the lottery corporation that runs casinos and the official gambling website operates a combined programme covering its venues and online platform. Enrolment is free, terms are fixed, and exclusions generally cannot be shortened once active. No programme covers unlicensed offshore sites.
- Scheme
- Provincial programmes (e.g. BetGuard in Ontario)
- Type
- Mixed
- Minimum
- Varies; 6 months in Ontario's BetGuard
- Cost
- Free
The steps
- 1
Find your province's programme
In Ontario, use BetGuard for online gambling and OLG's programme for land-based venues. In Alberta, use the AGLC programme, which covers casinos and the regulated online market. Elsewhere, contact your provincial lottery corporation (for example BCLC, Loto-Québec, Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries or Atlantic Lottery).
- 2
Register online or in person
Online registration is available for BetGuard and most provincial websites. For land-based venues, ask casino security or guest services to start the process; staff are trained to handle requests privately.
- 3
Verify your identity
Have valid government-issued photo ID such as a driver's licence or passport. You must meet the provincial gambling age (19+ in most provinces). In-person enrolment usually includes a photograph.
- 4
Choose your exclusion term
BetGuard offers six months, one year, five years or a custom term. Other provinces offer comparable fixed terms. Choose a period you are confident you can keep to.
- 5
Confirm and understand the consequences
Once active, licensed operators must close or suspend your accounts and stop marketing to you. Entering a casino while excluded can lead to removal and trespass charges in some provinces.
- 6
Add your own extra barriers
Ask your bank about gambling transaction blocks, install blocking software and tell a trusted person. A provincial helpline can also arrange counselling alongside the exclusion.
- 7
At the end of the term
You can renew or extend at any time but cannot shorten or cancel an active exclusion. Some provinces require a meeting or information session before reinstatement.
Before you start — what to know
- BetGuard covers all regulated online gambling sites in Ontario, including OLG's Proline, but not unregulated offshore sites.
- An exclusion in one province does not apply in another; register separately if you gamble in more than one.
- Sites licensed by the Kahnawà:ke Gaming Commission or offshore regulators are outside provincial programmes.
- Exclusion is not treatment. Use it alongside the free counselling offered by your provincial helpline.
- Check the current terms with your provincial regulator, as Alberta's and Ontario's programmes are new and may change.
Make it stronger: add more barriers
Frequently asked questions
Is online gambling legal in Canada?
Yes, but only through provincially authorised channels. Ontario and Alberta license private operators; other provinces offer online gambling only through their lottery corporation.
What is BetGuard?
BetGuard is iGaming Ontario's centralised self-exclusion platform, launched in 2026. One registration blocks you from every regulated online gambling site in Ontario for six months, one year, five years or a custom term.
Can I cancel my self-exclusion early?
Generally no. Ontario's BetGuard allows you to extend an exclusion but not shorten or cancel it, and other provinces work in a similar way.
What is the legal gambling age?
It is 19 in most provinces and territories, and 18 in Alberta, Manitoba and Quebec.
Procedures can change. Always follow the instructions of the official scheme or regulator. We2Bet is not affiliated with any self-exclusion scheme. Last reviewed October 2026.