Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario Casinos – Top AGCO Picks of 2025
When Ontario finally opened its doors to legal online casinos in 2022, it felt like a long time coming. Before that, most Canadian gamblers played on offshore sites and just hoped for the best. Now, everything runs under local rules. The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) and iGaming Ontario make sure casinos play fair, pay fast, and protect players. I’ve tested a few of these sites myself, and trust me, having real regulation behind them changes the whole game. You know who’s responsible, and that makes a big difference when money’s involved. I made a list of all the casinos licensed by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario below. You can choose one and start playing immediately. If you want to know how they work, keep reading.
Top-Rated Casinos of 2025 with a License from the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario
Ontario Gaming License Overview
For years, offshore sites served Ontario players freely, but none of them were actually regulated in the province. The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) changed that by creating a licensing system that finally holds operators to local standards.
The AGCO handles the official registration of casino and sportsbook operators, along with their casino software suppliers. Then there’s iGaming Ontario (iGO), a separate government agency that actually “conducts and manages” the day-to-day online gaming market.
Every casino you see legally operating in Ontario must have both AGCO registration and an operating agreement with iGO.
The system came together right after Canada passed Bill C-218, which made single-event sports betting legal. Now, every spin, bet, and withdrawal on a licensed Ontario casino is tracked under strict provincial law. Your funds must be held securely, your games are tested for fairness, and if something goes wrong, you actually have someone local to contact.
Latest News About the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario
AGCO inspectors removed more than 50 unapproved “Prime Slots” machines from bars, stores, and lottery retailers. Tests showed these machines relied on chance, not skill. The regulator is focused on keeping illegal devices away from minors and vulnerable groups. More inspections are planned across Ontario.
Several GTA convenience stores lost their lottery seller registrations. They hosted unapproved Prime Slot machines. Retailers can appeal to the License Appeal Tribunal within 15 days. AGCO said unregulated machines pose real risks, especially in places where children can enter.
As of July 11, 2025, AGCO no longer pre-approves responsible gambling training programs. Training stays mandatory and must follow best practices. The update supports an outcomes-based approach across the casino and lottery sectors. Operators can adapt faster while keeping strong player protection goals.
Safety and Security at Ontario Licensed Casinos
I like how clear the standards are. Sites must meet rules on fairness, security, and AML controls. All casino games are tested and approved. Operators must offer tools for safer play. You get deposit limits, timeouts, and self-exclusion. Staff need RG training. Sites must protect your data and act on risks quickly.
If a brand breaks rules, the AGCO can fine or suspend it. This system replaced guesswork with real oversight. That’s why I suggest sticking to Ontario casinos first.
Payment and Withdrawal Policies
Ontario licensed casinos keep banking simple and familiar. The AGCO requires top online casinos to store player funds separately, so your money is always protected. Before you deposit, check the cashier page for payout times, limits, and any small print. Most withdrawals take one to three days once your ID is verified.
I always finish KYC early, it saves time when you cash out. If a payout ever stalls, contact support and keep proof of the chat. If it drags on too long, you can escalate the case through iGaming Ontario’s complaint system.