Sports Betting in Canada: What to Know Before You Bet

Since the legalization of single-game betting in Canada in 2021, sports enthusiasts have embraced betting as a fun way to improve their connection to their favorite sports. From the NBA Finals to local sports leagues, Canadians have diverse betting opportunities year-round. This guide helps you navigate the top events and betting options that suit your preferences. Let’s dive into the key points you need to know about sports betting in Canada, including how odds work, the most popular sports to bet on, and key factors to consider when choosing the best sports betting sites Canada.
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Is it Legal to Bet on Sports in Canada?

The passing of Bill C-218 in August 2021 brought single-game betting to Canada, significantly expanding betting options for Canadians. This change means more choice in betting platforms, increased local regulations, and levelled-up consumer protections. Each province now has specific regulations governing betting availability and enforcement. Below is a breakdown of the legal status of sports betting in various provinces and territories.
Province/Territory Legal Status Notes
All Provinces Legal for single-game sports betting Single-event betting became legal in August 27, 2021 with Bill C-218.
Ontario Legal, with licensed operators Ontario has a regulated market for single-game betting.
British Columbia Legal, with licensed operators Single-game sports betting is available through regulated platforms.
Alberta Legal since September 1, 2021 Alberta joined the list of provinces offering single-game betting.
Manitoba Legal, with licensed operators Each province has its own rules for sports betting, ensuring it aligns with local laws.
Newfoundland & Labrador Legal, with licensed operators Follows the same regulations as other provinces offering legal betting.
Other Provinces Legal, with some provincial restrictions Regulations may vary slightly depending on local laws.

Why This Matters to Bettors: Understanding provincial laws is important for Canadian sports bettors, as it dictates which sports you can bet on, which platforms you can use, and even how bets are placed. While federal law permits betting on a wide variety of sports, provincial regulations influence the actual betting market and options available to players. This also includes the legal protection you receive, as regulated platforms often offer a higher level of security, responsible gambling tools, and a transparent process for resolving disputes.

Note: Gambling rules in Canada change depending on the province. Each one decides which sports are legal to bet on and whether residents can access local or offshore online betting. These decisions usually depend on the province’s view of gambling, their oversight capabilities, and how they manage public interest.
Sports Available for Betting in Canada

Sports Available for Betting in Canada

Canadians have the chance to bet on a variety of sports, from the Super Bowl to local favourites. Even Raptors fans will find something on this list for themselves.
  • Baseball, football, and hockey games – Major leagues like the MLB, NFL, and NHL provide a constant stream of betting opportunities, especially during playoff seasons like the Stanley Cup and Super Bowl.
  • Basketball, tennis, and golf tournaments – Events like the NBA Finals, Wimbledon, and the Masters are top picks for bettors.
  • Boxing matches – Big fights, such as those featuring Canadian boxers, often attract significant betting activity.
  • Darts and cricket – Growing in popularity, these sports provide unique betting markets.
  • Formula 1 races – F1 fans can place bets on races from all over the world, including the Canadian Grand Prix.
  • Horse racing events – Canadian bettors can participate in major horse racing events like the Queen’s Plate.
  • Summer and Winter Olympics – These global events, held every four years, offer extensive betting options across a wide range of sports.
  • E-sports competitions – With the rise of competitive gaming, e-sports events like League of Legends and CS:GO tournaments have become increasingly popular for betting.
  • Rugby league games – Both local and international rugby events are available for sports betting in Canada.

Which Sports Are Canadians Betting On the Most?

According to Statista, the sports betting industry is poised for significant growth, with projections estimating 25.6 million users by 2029. In 2025, user penetration is expected to reach 52.9%, climbing to an impressive 61.8% by 2029. Additionally, the average revenue per user (ARPU) is forecasted to hit $107.74, reflecting the market’s strong earning potential.

Sports Betting in Canada

Online Sports Betting by League

Canada offers a wide range of sports betting opportunities, with fans enjoying various leagues and events throughout the year. Whether you’re passionate about basketball, hockey, or even curling, each sport offers its own unique betting markets. In this section, we’ll explore some of the most popular sports leagues for Canadian bettors, highlighting the best licensed platforms and key odds for each.

MLB

Major League Baseball (MLB) offers an extensive regular-season schedule, making it one of the most popular sports for betting in North America. With countless betting markets available, there's always an opportunity to place a wager throughout the season. Stay updated with the latest odds and trends as the MLB season unfolds.

Curling

Curling is a beloved sport for Canadian bettors, with a wide range of betting options available throughout the year. Whether you're looking for event-specific odds or betting on team performance, this section gives you the best options and tips on how to bet on curling.

NBA

The National Basketball Association (NBA) is one of the most-watched leagues globally, and betting on it is extremely popular in Canada. Get the latest odds and betting lines for NBA games, from regular season matchups to the playoff series. Will your favorite team secure a championship ring this season?

NFL

The NFL brings exciting matchups, as teams compete for the ultimate Super Bowl victory. This section covers all the betting lines from the top Canadian sportsbooks, giving you the best odds for NFL games, playoffs, and the big game.

NHL

The NHL’s 82-game season means constant action. From weekly matchups to Stanley Cup odds, there’s no shortage of betting options. Who will take home the championship this year?

UFC

The UFC has become a global sensation, offering high-stakes action in the world of mixed martial arts. With fights across various weight classes and stacked cards, UFC betting provides numerous opportunities to place wagers on top fighters. Find the latest odds and betting options for UFC events right here.

Sports Betting Canada: Understanding Odds

Sports Betting Canada: Understanding Odds
Before placing any bet, it’s important to understand how odds work. If the types of bets in the NHL, NBA or betting on Super Bowl are different, then the odds are usually the same for all sports.
Legal sportsbooks in Canada typically offer three common types of odds: Moneyline, Decimal, and Fractional. These odds formats show you how much you could potentially earn based on your bet. Here’s a breakdown.
Coefficient Type Bet Possible Payout Odds
Money line $100 $750 +750
Decimal $1 $8,50 8.50
Fractional $2 $15 15/2
  • Moneyline Odds (American)

Moneyline odds are the most common in North America. The number (positive or negative) tells you how much you can get relative to your stake. For example, +750 means a $100 bet would return $850 (your $100 bet plus $750 in profit).

  • Decimal Odds (European/Canadian)

Decimal odds are easy to understand, as they show the total payout (stake plus profit). For example, a $1 bet at odds of 8.50 would return $8.50, including your $1 stake and $7.50 in profit.

  • Fractional Odds (British)

Fractional odds represent a ratio. For example, 15/2 means that for every $2 you bet, you get $15 in profit, plus your $2 stake.

How to Read Odds

If you’re betting $50 on something with 8.50 odds, your return is $425. You get that number by multiplying your stake by the odds. Your original $50 is part of the total.

Choosing the Right Odds Format

Decimal odds are most common in Canada, but you may prefer fractional or moneyline odds, depending on your comfort level. Understanding each format ensures you make more informed betting decisions.

Tips for Beginners

  • Always understand the odds before placing a bet. The higher the odds, the greater the potential payout – but also the higher the risk.
  • Compare odds across different platforms. Sometimes, bookmakers offer different odds for the same event, so it’s worth shopping around.
  • Don’t forget to factor in the stake. Your initial bet is included in the total return, so be clear on how much you’re actually risking.
  • Learn the difference between single bets, accumulators, and system bets. Each one carries different risks.
By understanding these different odds formats and how they work, you can make smarter betting choices and maximize your betting experience.

Canada Sports Betting Options

A range of bets is available to Canadian players today. In our guide, we have described the most popular and profitable ones, ranging from spread and money line to real-time betting, available even in betting on Super Bowl.

  • Express or multi-bets

An Express bet involves placing bets on several games or events at once. All selections must be correct for the bet to succeed, and if successful, the payout is higher compared to placing individual bets on each event. Multi-bets are perfect for those who want to combine their knowledge of multiple games and maximize potential returns.

Example: Let’s say you place a multi-bet on the following:

  • Toronto Raptors to become the best against the Los Angeles Lakers at +200 odds.
  • Montreal Canadiens to victory their next game at +150 odds.
  • Super Bowl LV: Kansas City Chiefs to become the best at +250 odds.

If you bet $10 on this multi-bet, the combined odds would be:

  • (2.00 * 1.50 * 2.50) = 7.50.

So, the total payout would be $10 * 7.50 = $75 (including your $10 stake). This type of bet is popular among Canadian bettors who like to combine several events they believe will happen.

  • Money line
A Money line bet is the simplest type of bet, where you place a wager on a team to come out on top the game outright. For instance, if you bet $100 on the Toronto Raptors at odds of +200 and they prevail in the contest, you’d earn $200 in profit, on top of your original $100 stake. It’s a wager on which team or player will prevail in the game. For example, betting on a team to get the victory outright without considering point spreads.
Example: For a Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Vancouver Canucks game, you might see the following odds:
  • Toronto Maple Leafs: -150 (You need to bet $150 to secure a victory $100)
  • Vancouver Canucks: +130 (A $100 bet would return $130 in profit if they reach the final goal)
If you bet $50 on the Canucks at +130 and they take the prize, your payout would be $50 * 1.30 = $65 (including your $50 stake). This type of bet is used when bettors want to pick the outright leader of a game without worrying about point spreads.
  • Sports betting Canada in real-time
In-play betting allows you to place bets while the game is still happening. In-play betting lets you wager on events like the next goal or halftime leader – and adjust your strategy on the fly.

Example: During an NHL game, you might decide to place an in-play bet at halftime on the Toronto Maple Leafs to score the next goal. Let’s say the odds for this bet are +250. If the Leafs do score next, you take the lead the bet.

In-play betting is popular among Canadian bettors who want to make their decisions based on how the game is unfolding, rather than pre-game predictions.
  • Total or over/under bet
In this bet type, the bookmaker sets a total for the combined score of both teams. You bet on whether the actual score will be over or under that number. For example, if the total is set at 220 for a basketball game, you can bet that the total score will either be more (over) or less (under).
Example: In an NBA game between the Toronto Raptors and the Boston Celtics, the bookmaker sets the total points at 220. If you bet on the over and the final score is 230, you succeed in the bet. If you bet on the under and the score is 215, you get money.
  • Futures betting
Futures betting is placing a wager on the outcome of an event that will take place in the future. This could include things like which team will claim the top spot the championship at the end of the season or who will be the MVP of a tournament.

Example: At the start of the NHL season, you might bet $100 on the Toronto Maple Leafs to land the outcome in your favour the Stanley Cup at odds of +1200. If they end up winning the championship, your payout would be $100 * 12 = $1200.

Futures bets let you predict major season outcomes, like who’ll outperform the competition on the Stanley Cup or MVP.

  • Spread
Spread betting involves wagering on a team’s margin of victory. For example, if a team is favoured by -2, it must achieve success by at least two points for the bet to be successful. This type of bet is often used in sports like football and basketball, where one team is expected to be stronger than the other.

Example: Let’s say the Ottawa Senators are playing the Montreal Canadiens, and the spread is -2 for the Senators. You bet $50 on the Senators to cover the spread. If they finish first by 3 points or more, you get the money. If the Senators emerge victorious by exactly 2 points, the bet is a push (a tie), and you get your money back.

This bet is commonly used by Canadian bettors, particularly in football and basketball, where one team is favoured to end with the highest score by a certain margin.
  • Optional, additional or offer bets
Prop bets (short for “proposition bets”) are wagers on events that may not directly impact the outcome of the game but are interesting to bet on. For example, you could place a bet on the number of goals a player will score, or how many total shots will be made by a specific player in a basketball game.

Example: In an NBA game, you could place a prop bet on Fred VanVleet to score over 25 points in the game. If VanVleet scores 26 or more points, you are on top.

Quick Comparison of Common Bet Types

Bet TypeDescriptionExample
Express/ Multi-betsCombine multiple bets on different events.Bet on NHL, NBA, and Super Bowl outcomes.
Money LineBet on the team/player to dominate the game.Bet on a team to seal the result without a point spread.
In-Play BettingBet on live events during the game.Bet on the next point scorer or game leader at halftime.
Total (Over/Under)Bet on the combined score being over or under a set number.Bet on whether the combined score of a basketball game will exceed 220 points.
Futures BettingBet on future event outcomes.Bet on which team will beat the opponent in the the season’s championship.
Spread BettingBet on a team’s margin of victory.Bet on a team to clinch the event by more than 2 points.
Prop BetsBet on specific occurrences within a game.Bet on the number of shots a player will make.

Golden Rules in Sports Betting

These tips are compiled based on the experience of many bettors and our experts. They do not guarantee victory but will allow you to get the most out of the process.

  • Choose the best sports betting sites Canada for great odds and a wide selection of wagers and events, including betting on Super Bowl.
  • Pay attention to Canadian bookmakers that offer various bonuses and regularly hold promotions for registered players.
  • Pay attention to niche sports. If you understand this, you can increase your chances of winning.
  • Don’t bet more to try and recover previous losses – it often leads to worse outcomes.
  • Use betting only when it fits your schedule – never let it interfere with work, family, or other responsibilities.
Responsible Gambling Reminder: Betting should be fun – not stressful. If it becomes a problem, seek help from available support resources. There are many resources available for those who may need support, such as the Responsible Gambling Council and provincial helplines.

Top Mobile Betting Platforms for Canadian Players

Industry research shows that more than half of sports bettors wager using mobile devices. Several top-rated sports betting platforms in Canada have developed dedicated mobile apps, so you can quickly place a bet whether you’re at home or out with friends. From quick bet placement to live event updates, mobile apps enhance the sports betting experience. Thus, betting on your favourite sport has become even more convenient and faster.
Mobile AppEase of UseAvailable SportsLive Betting OptionsPayment Methods
TonyBetUser-friendly, smooth designMLB, NBA, NHL, NFL, Soccer, Tennis, and moreYes, in-play betting availableCredit cards, PayPal, Crypto
StakeSleek and fast interfaceUFC, Esports, MLB, NBA, NFL, Soccer, and moreYes, live bets on various sportsBitcoin, Ethereum, and other crypto
888SportSmooth, easy navigationNHL, NBA, MLB, Soccer, UFC, Tennis, and moreYes, live betting for major eventsCredit cards, PayPal, eTransfers
In addition to mobile versions of sites, bookmakers also offer to download a free application. These apps provide ooportunity to use all the site’s options, such as viewing odds, placing bets, and managing your account, all from the convenience of your mobile device.

TonyBet​

TonyBet is a popular sportsbook that brings a comprehensive mobile betting experience for Canadians. Known for its wide range of sports markets and live betting options, it has become a favorite for both beginners and experienced bettors. The app is easy to use and lets you jump into live matches without delays.

People Say:

Noah Sinclair from CA gives this betting site a glowing 5-star review via Truspilot, highlighting its user-friendly interface and competitive odds, especially for sports betting. He highlights the impressive variety of horse racing and esports markets, making it a standout choice for enthusiasts. While he finds the promotions slightly repetitive, he notes their overall quality. Transactions via PayPal are seamless, with fast deposits and withdrawals, and the mobile app performs reliably. Overall, Noah sees it as a solid platform with minor room for improvement in promotional variety.
Noah Sinclair 5-star review

Pros:

  • Wide range of sports markets
  • Easy-to-use mobile app
  • Live betting feature available
  • Secure payment options

Cons:

  • Odds sometimes update slowly during live events
  • Withdrawal processing time can be longer than expected

Stake

Stake is a well-known cryptocurrency-focused sportsbook that is popular among Canadian bettors. Offering an intuitive mobile experience, the Stake app allows players to place bets on a variety of sports and esports events. Its sleek design and fast interface make it a good choice for bettors who prefer using their phones to place wagers.
User Review:
Reddit user MrVinc3nt recently posted a screenshot showcasing several of his sports betting pulls off the result since joining Stake. The image highlights his successful bets across various sports, reflecting his enthusiasm for the platform. He notes the user-friendly interface and competitive odds as key factors in his experience. He even specified the exact amounts; the screenshot suggests consistent wins, particularly in footbal markets. MrVinc3nt’s post has sparked discussions among other gamblers about their own betting strategies on Stake.
Reddit user MrVinc3nt some of sports betting

Pros:

  • Great for crypto betting
  • Fast, responsive mobile app
  • Excellent esports coverage
  • Easy-to-use interface

Cons:

  • Cryptocurrency options may confuse new users
  • Slow customer support response times

888Sport

888Sport is a veteran in the online betting world and offers a well-optimized mobile experience for Canadians. The mobile app gives gamblers easy access to a variety of sports betting markets, along with casino games. It is known for its smooth mobile interface and great promotional offers.
Trustpilot’s User Review:
A customer from CA, who has been using 888Sport since 2017, gives it a glowing 5-star review, emphasizing their consistently positive experience. He recalled his first major earning of $14,000 in 2017, initially doubting he’d receive the funds, but was pleasantly surprised when the casino personally congratulated him and wired the money within a week. The reviewer notes that the withdrawal process has since improved, with e-transfer payouts now arriving within an hour. He has remained a loyal, on-and-off user of 888Sport, praising its reliability and efficiency.
Trustpilot’s User Review

Pros:

  • Wide range of sports markets and casino games
  • Smooth, user-friendly mobile experience
  • Excellent promotions and bonuses
  • Reliable security and payment options

Cons:

  • Occasional lag when accessing promotions
  • App may crash after updates

How to Choose a Trusted Betting Site in Canada

When it comes to choosing the right sports betting platform in Canada, it’s important to consider a few key factors. While promotions and bonuses can be appealing, they shouldn’t be the sole reason for your choice. Instead, focus on aspects like odds competitiveness, licensing, security, and the variety of sports offered. Here are a few features to consider when selecting a betting site.

  • Odds and Betting Variety: Choose a platform that offers competitive odds across a wide range of sports. This can make a significant difference in your overall betting experience. Many Canadian bettors enjoy placing wagers on hockey, basketball, and football, but some prefer niche markets, such as esports or curling.
  • Licensing and Security. All top bookmakers in Canada are licensed and regularly audited by such reputable organizations as the Malta Gaming Authority and eCommerce and Online Gaming Regulation and Assurance. As well, such sites use SSL encryption innovative technologies, providing a high level of data protection.
  • Security and Payment Options: Look for sites that offer reliable payment methods, including credit cards, e-wallets, and cryptocurrency. A good platform ensures secure transactions and brings you fast withdrawal options.
  • Customer Support: Reliable customer support is essential, particularly if you encounter any issues while placing bets or withdrawing winnings. Platforms that offer 24/7 support are typically more trustworthy.
  • Mobile Compatibility: More bettors are placing wagers via mobile devices, so sites with user-friendly apps or mobile-optimized versions provide a smoother experience, whether you’re at home or on the go.
  • Live Streaming: Some sites offer live video of games, enhancing the in-play betting experience.

FAQs

Sports betting in Canada offers a variety of ways for Canadians to engage with their favourite sports, including multiple bet types and platforms. If you’re new to sports betting or looking to learn more, here are some common questions answered to help you get started.

About the Author

This guide on sports betting in Canada has been created by a passionate team of experts with extensive knowledge of the Canadian betting landscape. Our writers have years of experience in the sports and gambling industries, with a focus on delivering accurate, up-to-date, and useful information for both new and seasoned bettors. We aim to provide trustworthy, reliable, and well-researched content that adheres to Canadian gambling laws and promotes responsible betting.