Melbet review: Expert intro to the newest online sportsbook in Canada (February 2026)
12 February 2026The best sportsbooks in Canada in February 2026 are bet365, Sports Interaction (SIA), and TonyBet. These platforms lead the Canadian sports betting market by offering the most competitive NHL betting lines, the fastest Interac e-Transfer payouts, and comprehensive single-event sports betting coverage.
Below is a table with our top betting sites in Canada, followed by a quick rundown of the sports and casino bonuses and what makes them stand out from the competition.
| Sportsbook | Sports bonus | Casino bonus | Sign up |
|---|---|---|---|
| Melbet | 100% First Deposit Match up to $150 | $2,625 in bonus funds and 300 free spins | Sign up |
| TonyBet | 100% up to $350 | 100% up to $1,000 & 100 free spins | Sign up |
| Bet99 | First Bet Encore of up to $500 | 100% deposit match up to $1,000 | Sign up |
| Boomerang Bet | 100% deposit match up to $150 | 100% deposit match up to $750 & 200 free spins | Sign up |
| Paripesa | 100% deposit bonus up to $150 | Welcome Package of up to $1,800 and 150 free spins | Sign up |
| Parimatch | 100% deposit bonus up to $500 | 150% welcome bonus of up to $1,500 | Sign up |
| Pinnacle | N/A | N/A | Sign up |
| Coolbet | 100% deposit match up to $200 | 200% deposit bonus up to $200, plus 100 free spins | Sign up |
| Betway | Free Bet Refund up to $200 and 50 free spins | N/A | Sign up |
| Sports Interaction | 125% welcome bonus up to $250 | 100% deposit match up to $3,000 | Sign up |
The best sportsbooks – top picks for Canada
Contents
- 1 The best sportsbooks – top picks for Canada
- 2 1. Melbet: Best Overall Betting Site for Market Variety & Bonuses
- 3 2. TonyBet: Best Betting Site for High-Stakes and Bonus Hunters
- 4 3. Bet99: Catering to the interests of Canadian bettors
- 5 4. Boomerang Bet: Weekly reload bonus
- 6 5. Paripesa: Leading in esports betting
- 7 7. Parimatch: Daily quests and other rewards
- 8 8. Pinnacle: Offering industry-low betting margins
- 9 9. Coolbet: Poker and fast payouts
- 10 10. Betway: Leader in player props and specials
- 11 11. Sports Interaction: Pinata picks and free games
- 12 Best 10 betting sites in Canada: winners across key categories
- 13 Bookmaker battle royal: Comparing the top 10 best betting sites in Canada according to your needs
- 14 Live Sports Betting
- 15 How to Select the Best Sports Betting Site in Canada for You
- 16 Author’s pick: My favourite betting site and why
- 17 Legality and Provincial Differences in Canadian Sports Betting
- 18 Tax Implications for Canadian Sports Bettors
- 19 Responsible Gambling in Canada
- 20 Top Betting Events in Canada Throughout the Year
- 21 Frequently Asked Questions about Sports Betting Sites in Canada
The Canadian sports betting industry has undergone a revolutionary transformation since the federal government passed Bill C-218 in August 2021, which legalized single-game betting nationwide. This landmark legislation opened the floodgates for a more diverse and competitive betting market, giving Canadian punters unprecedented access to provincial lottery-run platforms and licensed international operators.
With single-game betting legislation in Canada fully implemented, bettors can place wagers on individual games across the NHL, NBA, MLB, and other major leagues, bringing Canada’s sports betting landscape closer to established markets like the UK and Australia.
- Melbet
- TonyBet
- Bet99
- Boomerang Bet
- Paripesa
- Parimatch
- Pinnacle
- Coolbet
- Betway
- Sports Interaction
1. Melbet: Best Overall Betting Site for Market Variety & Bonuses
Melbet has now taken the top spot in our 2026 rankings, thanks to its sheer volume of markets and accessibility. While it is not available in Ontario, it serves as a premier offshore option for bettors in BC, Alberta, Quebec, and the Atlantic provinces.
- The Welcome Offer: Use the Melbet promo code for a 100% match up to $150
- The “Everything” Book: Melbet covers over 40 sports, including niche betting markets like pro wrestling (WWE), chess, virtual sports, and “Fast Games” like Apple of Fortune.
- Esports Dominance: Melbet is a digital powerhouse, offering live Twitch integration directly on betting pages for titles like Dota 2, Tekken, and even Subway Surfers.
- Crypto Integration: It is a leading Bitcoin betting site that supports over 40 cryptocurrencies for instant, anonymous transactions.
2. TonyBet: Best Betting Site for High-Stakes and Bonus Hunters
TonyBet excels in market depth with over 30 betting markets, including niche sports like Gaelic football and motorcycle racing. Football (soccer) bettors enjoy exceptional coverage spanning multiple tiers of domestic and international competition.
Before heaping praise on TonyBet as one of the best betting sites in Canada, I will note that its website and mobile layout could be much better. There are no direct links to specific sports on the sidebar, and the overall navigation can be somewhat confusing to those unfamiliar with sports betting.
That said, TonyBet offers one of the best welcome bonuses in Canada and a variety of ongoing promotions for current users. It also has exceptional customer service, competitive odds, and is a leader in horse racing betting in Canada. Moreover, it has one of the deepest casino libraries, with more than 5,000 slots and live dealer tables.
Customer service is excellent, with responsive live chat and email support. While the website navigation could be improved, the depth of markets and promotions more than compensates for this shortcoming.
TonyBet special offers & promotions
The TonyBet promo code unlocks the choice between a sports bonus of up to $350 or a Casino Welcome Offer with four deposit bonuses. The first deposit is a 100% match bonus up to $1,000 and 100 free spins on Gates of Olympus.
/https%3A%2F%2Fmedia.sportsmole.co.uk%2Fonline%2F2025%2F05%2Fimage-50.png)
From there, new TonyBet players can earn an additional $1,500 in casino bonus funds. The second deposit bonus is a 75 percent match up to $500 (and 50 free spins for Sugar Rush). The third is a 50 percent match up to $500 (and 50 free spins for Zeus vs Hades) and the fourth is a 25 percent match up to $500 (and 25 free spins for Wolf Gold).
Promotions for existing customers
- Sport VIP Program: Players receive Comp Points (CPs) for qualifying bets. They’re rewarded with 1 CP for every $7 in bets with minimum odds of 1.5. One hundred (100) CPs can be converted into $1.5 in free bets.
- Bettors Tournament: Players earn points based on winning bets and can climb the leaderboard to earn shares of $3,000, $1,500, or $500, depending on reward tier. The scoring formula for points is 100 x (win amount/bet amount – 1).
- $1,500 Daily Forecasts: TonyBet has Daily and Weekly Forecasts with significant prize pools. The $1,500 Daily Forecast usually involves anywhere from 8-14 events. Players can predict the outcome of these games and earn real money bonuses, including a maximum $1,500 (or share of the prize) for correctly predicting all events.
- Boost Your Odds: Players can receive profit boosts for multibets with at least three selections, each of which has odds of 1.2 or higher. They can receive a 100% bonus on multibets with 20 qualifying selections.
TonyBet sportsbook review
Among betting sites in Canada, few have as many sports as TonyBet. The operator offers more than 30 betting markets, including niche sports such as Gaelic football, netball, and motorcycle racing. It specializes in soccer betting, covering dozens of leagues across multiple tiers in domestic and international competition.
TonyBet has a solid selection of Boosted Odds events, all of which can be found under the “Boosted” tab in the sports betting menu. It offers live and SGP betting, though players cannot place live SGPs or SGP+ wagers, which combine multiple SGPs into a single wager. It has a decent mobile app, virtual and esports betting, and competitive odds. It claims to offer live streaming, but I couldn’t find any streamed events.
New customers in Canada only (Ontario excluded). Must be 18+. Minimum deposit is $15. Must wager 5x of the original deposit amount to claim bonus. Additional T&Cs apply.
3. Bet99: Catering to the interests of Canadian bettors
There are a few reasons why Bet99 is one of the best betting sites in Canada, but it mostly stands out for its commitment to serving the interests of Canadian bettors. No sports betting platform in Canada has more daily odds boosts and parlays featuring Canadian leagues, teams, and athletes.
Bet99 is an official partner of the NHL and is also a partner of the MLS club CF Montreal. It was founded in Quebec by a former professional hockey player – it doesn’t get much more Canadian than that. It also has one of the best mobile sites, with easy navigation and a solid sign-up offer.
Bet99 special offers & promotions
The Bet99 First Bet Encore is one of the most unique sign-up promotions among the best sportsbooks in Canada. Players can receive up to $500 in bonus bets, paid out in four equal bet tokens, if their first wager loses. Essentially, this provides new users with a risk-free first bet. Wager $500 on a single event or parlay and claim your winnings or receive four $125 bet tokens.
New users can also choose the Casino Welcome Offer, a 100% first-deposit match up to $1,000. The bonus must be wagered 30 times before being withdrawn, however.
Promotions for existing customers
- MuchBetter Deposit Offer: For a limited time, Bet99 is offering players 2% cashback on deposits made with the digital wallet MuchBetter. Players can make as many deposits as they want during the promotional period.
- MLB Player Insurance: Bet99 routinely offers bonuses for Canadian teams and athletes. One such example was the offer on April 14, which featured a reward of $5 bonus bets for every base Vladimir Guerrero Jr. had in the Toronto Blue Jays game against the Atlanta Braves. Players receive this reward if their qualifying bet of at least $50 with minimum odds of -200 settled as a loss.
Bet99 sportsbook review
Bet99 has far fewer sports betting markets than TonyBet, particularly in soccer betting. With that in mind, it sticks to what it knows best and has some of the best and most unique and engaging betting options for hockey and Canadian leagues and teams. It has a section titled “Daily Canadian Boosts” in its Bet99 Boosts & Specials – this includes combo prop bets involving Canadian NHL players and boosts for Canadian national teams.
/https%3A%2F%2Fmedia.sportsmole.co.uk%2Fonline%2F2025%2F05%2Fimage-52.png)
It has all the standard features of the top betting sites in Canada, including in-play betting, cashout, and live streaming. Players can even make live SGPs, which isn’t offered at all of the best online betting sites in Canada. The Bet99 app and mobile site are also probably the easiest to use, featuring intuitive navigation and one-click access to most sports betting markets from every page.
19+. Opt-in required. Bonus not available to Ontario residents. Minimum deposit of $20. Applies to first sports cash bet. Additional T&Cs apply.
4. Boomerang Bet: Weekly reload bonus
Headquartered in Cyprus, Boomerang Bet is one of the newest entries among the top 10 betting sites in Canada. The global operator doesn’t have the cleanest website, but it’s not too difficult to find what you’re looking for. It has SGPs, but without the option to include player props.
I do like, however, Boomerang Bet’s promotions, including a weekly reload deposit bonus which, from what I have found, is incredibly rare among Canadian sportsbooks. You can also sort live events by events with live streaming, which is great if you’re looking to watch and bet on esports, or European soccer or basketball games.
Boomerang Bet special offers & promotions
The first deposit bonus for Boomerang Bet is one of the smallest among best online betting sites in Canada, but it makes up for this with weekly and daily promotions. The minimum deposit for the bonus is $30 and players can earn up to $150 via a 100 percent deposit match.
/https%3A%2F%2Fmedia.sportsmole.co.uk%2Fonline%2F2025%2F05%2Fimage-56.png)
Players can also only receive the bonus once they’ve played through their original deposit on events with odds of at least 1.50. Bonuses must be wagered at least six times on single bets with odds of 2.00 or multi bets with minimum odds of 1.50 for each leg.
Promotions for existing customers
- Weekly Reload Bonus: Once per week players can receive a deposit bonus of 50 percent up to $750. These bonus funds have 8x wager requirements.
- 2 Goals Ahead Early Payout: For select matches designated with the “Early Payout (EP)” sign, players can receive their potential winnings if the team they backed in the 1×2 market goes ahead by two goals or sets. This is usually for hockey, soccer, or tennis.
- Bore Draw 100% Refund: Correct score, halftime/fulltime, first goalscorer, last goalscorer, and anytime goalscorer markets for soccer games are included in Boomerang Bet’s Bore Draw 100% Refund. With this promotion, players receive a wager refund if the match on which they bet settles as a scoreless draw.
Boomerang Bet sportsbook review
Boomerang Bet has about 30 sports betting markets and offers similar soccer coverage to others like TonyBet and Stake. It’s also a leader in tennis, esports, and virtual sports, with the latter featuring virtual greyhound and horse races, table tennis, baseball, NBA, and Premier League. Live streaming is available for all virtual sports.
Players can build their own SGPs with Boomerang Bet’s “Build Parlay” feature under each game. It’s also a good option for crypto payments, but it also accepts traditional payment methods like Interac and MasterCard.
5. Paripesa: Leading in esports betting
What stands out most about Paripesa is its huge selection of esports betting. I also like the mobile/desktop header menu with one-click access for the most popular leagues in North America, including the NBA, NHL, and MLB. Paripesa also has a decent selection of bonuses and an online casino with slots, Keno, table games, skill games, and Crash games.
Licensed in Curacao in 2019, Paripesa has positioned itself as one of the top betting sites in Canada in recent years. Like Bet99, it makes an effort to appeal to Canadians with a dedicated sports betting section titled “Bet on Your National Team, which not only includes Canadian teams but also athletes, esports players, etc.
PariPesa special offers & promotions
The Paripesa first deposit bonus is a 100 percent deposit match up to $150. The minimum deposit to qualify is only $2 and all bonus funds are subject to 5x wager requirements on accumulator bets with three or more selections. Alternatively, players can sign-up with the casino welcome package worth up to $1,800 and 150 free spins.
Promotions for existing customers
- 50% Second Deposit Bonus: Second deposits with Paripesa come with a 50 percent deposit match up to $78.70. The bonus must be wagered five times in accumulator bets.
- 50% Monday Sports Betting Bonus: With a minimum deposit of $16, players can receive a 50 percent deposit match on Monday of up to $158 in bonus bets. The bonus must be wagered 5 times on accumulator bets within 24 hours.
- Turbo Saturday: Each Saturday, players can receive up to $158 in bonus bets through a 100 percent deposit match. Players must not already have an active bonus and the bonus amount must be wagered five times in accumulator bets within 24 hours.
6. Paripesa sportsbook review
In addition to highlighting the top Canadian sports and games, Paripesa is a leading esports betting operator with real, virtual, and cyber markets. Games include King of Glory, Call of Duty, Halo, CS2, and Dota 2. Also worth noting is its coverage of WWE, making it the only operator on our list of the betting sites in Canada to include professional wrestling. Players can wager on matches at PPVs, Raw, SmackDown, and NXT.
/https%3A%2F%2Fmedia.sportsmole.co.uk%2Fonline%2F2025%2F05%2Fimage-57.png)
7. Parimatch: Daily quests and other rewards
Founded in 1994 in Ukraine, Parimatch has been expanding its global presence in recent years and is among the latest to enter the Canadian market via an offshore license in Cyprus. The website is a little clunky and not the easiest to navigate, but it offers a wide range of sports, including niche options like futsal and snooker, competitive odds, and a decent mobile app that is much more intuitive and better designed than the desktop site.
PariMatch special offers & promotions
The Parimatch bonus is far from the best among the top 10 betting sites in Canada. New users receive a 100% deposit match up to $500, but the bonus is subject to 20x wagering requirements within 7 days. Players can alternatively choose the 150 percent casino bonus with a maximum value of $1,500 – this is subject to 40x wager requirements.
/https%3A%2F%2Fmedia.sportsmole.co.uk%2Fonline%2F2025%2F05%2Fimage-53.png)
Promotions for existing customers
Parimatch doesn’t have any current standard offers for existing players. Instead, you may find Parimatch bonus code offers for enhanced promotions during major sporting events.
Parimatch sportsbook review
While Parimatch leaves a lot to be desired in terms of promotions for existing players, it does have a customizable Loyalty Program through which players can receive up to 2 percent profit bonus on the sport of their choice. Players can also unlock a variety of rewards through Parimatch Quests.
In terms of available sports, Parimatch meets the minimum requirement for a leading Canadian sportsbook. Popular bets, including parlays and live bets, are also listed. It does not, however, have live streaming or SGPs.
T&C apply.
8. Pinnacle: Offering industry-low betting margins
Launched in 1998, Pinnacle is a sportsbook and online casino that differs from the others on our list of the best sports betting sites in Canada. This is because it doesn’t offer a sign-up bonus or welcome package of any kind. Moreover, there are no daily odds boosts or free-to-play games for players to earn bet credits.
This might seem like a negative for most inexperienced or new players looking to get more out of their initial deposit. However, Pinnacle makes up for this by offering industry-low margins on most events. That means slightly more favorable odds for punters, potentially resulting in minimal increases in payouts over time.
Special offer & promotions
There is no sign-up bonus for new players, yet there’s still a Pinnacle promo code.
Promotions for existing customers
There are also no Pinnacle promotions for current players. The operator makes up for its lack of bonuses by offering low margins.
Pinnacle sportsbook review
Pinnacle doesn’t have nearly as many sports as TonyBet, Bet99, or many others on this list. It has similar coverage of the most popular sports, including soccer and hockey. It is, however, a leader in terms of basketball coverage.
Pinnacle offers betting odds of nearly 90 men’s and women’s basketball leagues worldwide. If you’ve been missing out on betting on Turkish Super League Women’s hoops, Pinnacle is the place for you.
/https%3A%2F%2Fmedia.sportsmole.co.uk%2Fonline%2F2025%2F05%2Fimage-54.png)
Pinnacle is primarily a sportsbook for sharp punters. Thus, it’s basically devoid of all gimmick-type bets. There are no SGPs, enhanced odds, or other special bets. It does have live betting.
T&C apply.
9. Coolbet: Poker and fast payouts
Coolbet is another Canadian sportsbook that strives to set itself apart from the competition with unique offerings and features, including displaying winners and bets from other players in real time. It also has free-to-play games, like the Coolbet League, and has casino games from more than 60 providers.
In addition, Coolbet is the preferred choice among Canadian sportsbooks for poker. There is a separate Coolbet app for poker and it has a variety of tables with different stakes and prizes. There’s even a Coolbet welcome bonus for poker. Deposits are instant as are withdrawals through e-wallets and crypto wallets.
Special offer & promotions
The Coolbet welcome bonus for new players is a 100 percent match of up to $200, using the bonus code CAD200. The minimum deposit is $10 and all bonus funds must be wagered six times on events with minimum odds of -200. Bets on both sides of the same event in 1×2 markets do not count toward the wager requirements, which must be met within 30 days.
Promotions for existing customers
- 30% Golf Profit Boost: All season long until the Tour Championship, Coolbet is offering customers a 30 percent profit boost on all pre-tournament outright bets. This applies not only for the PGA Tour, but also LIV Golf, DP World Tour, LPGA Tour, and Champions Tour.
Coolbet sportsbook review
Coolet has more than two dozen sports, including, most notably, wide coverage of hockey. It’s one of the few Canadian operators to offer betting on the Canadian Hockey League (QMJHL, OHL, and WHL), and also has coverage on European hockey markets like Slovakia, Russia, Switzerland, and Finland.
Coolbet is vastly different from Pinnacle, which doesn’t offer any gimmicks or promotions. In the “Sport” menu, players can sort events by campaigns such as “highest turnover,” “Cool events,” and “Incoming,” which displays recent wagers by all players.
/https%3A%2F%2Fmedia.sportsmole.co.uk%2Fonline%2F2025%2F05%2Fimage-58.png)
Another “cool” feature is the Combo Generator. Players simply select how many legs they want in a random parlay and the odds range for each and Coolbet spits out a multi-bet.
10. Betway: Leader in player props and specials
Launched in the UK in 2006, Betway is a popular global sports betting brand that is now headquartered in Malta and has offices in London and Cape Town. It’s particularly popular in Ontario, where it’s officially licensed by the AGCO and has a mobile app that has been downloaded more than 1 million times. There is no Betway app for players in the rest of Canada, however.
Special offer & promotions
The Betway offer is a Free Bet Refund up to $200. This works similar to the Bet99 First Bet Encore, but has higher wager requirements (50x) and, of course, is a smaller bonus. Players also receive 50 casino spins, however, which are all paid out in cash.
Promotions for existing customers
- 50% Matched MLB Daily Special: Players can earn a maximum free bet of up to $50 (50 percent of their stake) when making an MLB SGP with at least four selections, all of which have minimum odds of -300.
- Parlay Club: Every week, Betway players who wager $25 on SGPs with at least three selections and minimum combined odds of +200 receive $10 in bonus bets, paid in two $5 installments.
Betway sportsbook review
Betway has more sports than the average Canadian sportsbook, but its odds are not the most competitive. Just through a quick glance, it had the Toronto Maple Leafs as 1.60 favorites against the Buffalo Sabres on April 15. Pinnacle, meanwhile, had Toronto at 1.65.
Betway does excel in one area: player props for NHL and other leagues. It also has a dedicated section for Betway Boosts, with enhanced odds offers multiple sports. It has SGPs, cashout, and in-play betting.
11. Sports Interaction: Pinata picks and free games
Owned and operated by Entain, Sports Interaction has been a popular sports betting site in Canada for more than two decades. It’s one of the most prominent Canadian sportsbooks, with ads featured on Hockey Night in Canada broadcasts on CBC and Sportsnet.
I like the Sports Interaction website layout, although there is no mobile app. It has most of the usual features required for a good sportsbook, including cashout, early payout bonuses, and live betting. Making any type of bet is easy with bet slip tabs for straight, parlay, round robin, or teaser bets.
Sports Interaction special offers & promotions
The sports bonus for Sports Interaction is not as big as some of the others in our list of the top 10 sports betting sites in Canada, but it’s not bad in terms of value. It’s a 125 percent deposit match. Players can receive a maximum welcome bonus of up to $250 when depositing $200. The casino offer, meanwhile, is better than most, with a 100 percent deposit match of up to $3,000.
/https%3A%2F%2Fmedia.sportsmole.co.uk%2Fonline%2F2025%2F05%2Fimage-55.png)
Promotions for existing customers
- NHL SGP Bet Club: Players who make four or more qualifying SGP bets within one week earn a $5 bonus bet for a NHL SGP. Qualifying wagers must be at least $5 and have at least two legs with minimum odds of 3.0 (+200). Players must opt in to be eligible for the promotion.
Sports Interaction sportsbook review
Sports Interaction is one of the most diverse sportsbooks both in terms of available sports and betting markets. It has more than 30 sports, including cycling, darts, esports, floorball, and Rugby Union. It also covers secondary leagues of some of the most popular sports in North America, including college athletics, WNBA, PWHL, and CFL.
Canadians will appreciate Sports Interaction’s NHL Daily Odds Boosts, which feature unique props with creative titles, such as “Demi God – Ivan Demidov 1+ Goals, MTL Over 6.5 & Canadiens -1.5” and “A-K All the Way – Adrian Kempe and Kevin Fiala 1+ Goals each & Kings WIN.”
Best 10 betting sites in Canada: winners across key categories
Different betting platforms excel at serving specific types of bettors. Here’s our breakdown of which sites best serve various betting profiles:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Best Sports Bonus | Bet99 and Stake |
| Best Free Bets Bonus | Bet99 |
| Best % Welcome Bonus | Stake |
| Sports betting market | Sports Interaction |
| Football betting | TonyBet |
| Horse racing betting | Stake |
| In-play betting | Boomerang Bet |
| Best odds | Pinnacle |
| Live streaming & betting | Paripesa |
| Virtuals, iGaming, & esports | Paripesa |
| Online casino | TonyBet |
| Customer service | TonyBet |
| User experience | Bet99 |
| Best mobile app | Bet99 |
| Gambling awareness | Pinnacle |
Bookmaker battle royal: Comparing the top 10 best betting sites in Canada according to your needs
Selecting the ideal sportsbook depends on your specific betting preferences and priorities. TonyBet may be the top-ranked selection in our picks of the top 10 betting sites in Canada, but that doesn’t mean it’s the right operator for every Canadian punter. Below, our comprehensive comparison across key categories helps you identify which platform best meets your personal preferences:
The best sports bonuses on the market
If you’re mostly interested in securing a decent welcome offer of bonus bets or a risk-free wager, then the following five Canadian sportsbooks should be of particular interest: Stake, Bet99, TonyBet, Parimatch, and Sports Interaction.
Stake is easily the best offer among the top 10 betting sites in Canada, with a 200 percent first deposit bonus that can be used for either the sportsbook or online casino. However, its 40x wager requirement is much higher than others, while some don’t even have wager requirements for bonuses.
Bet99’s First Bet Encore is the most unique and second-largest sportsbook reward. Parimatch’s 100 percent deposit carries a maximum bonus of up to $500 and TonyBet, at a maximum of $350, isn’t bad either. Sports Interaction’s maximum bonus is $250, but with a 125 percent match, you would only have to deposit $200.
Best free bet bonus: Bet99
The Bet99 First Bet Encore is easily the best free bet bonus among the best sports betting sites in Canada. It’s better value than the Betway bet refund bonus and has fewer restrictions. The best part is the relatively small risk for the first bet, giving players a chance to start with double their deposit or receive four bonus bets worth up to $125 each for a maximum of $500.
Best % welcome bonus: Stake
Again, Stake has the best percentage welcome bonus, but that doesn’t necessarily make it the best overall welcome offer among the best online betting sites in Canada. You can receive a maximum of $3,000 on a $1,500 deposit, but all bonuses are subject to 40x wager requirements. That means you would have to stake (pardon the pun) $120,000 before withdrawing the maximum $3,000 bonus.
Sports betting market depth – Sports Interaction dominates
While it doesn’t cater to the interests of Canadian punters like Bet99 or offer as wide of a selection of payments as Stake or TonyBet, Sports Interaction leads the way in terms of sports betting market diversity. It has more than 30 available sports, including dozens of soccer, hockey, and basketball leagues worldwide. Their sports menu layout is also better than most, with popular leagues highlighted under each available sport.
Soccer selection at TonyBet: A league of its own
TonyBet stands out among the best sportsbooks Canada for its commitment to offering competitive odds on a vast array of soccer markets worldwide. On any given day, it has more than 1,000 soccer betting markets covering international competition, popular leagues (Premier League, La Liga, Ligue 1, Bundesliga, etc.), and niche domestic leagues in countries like Bahrain, Chile, Ecuador, Iceland, and Kosovo.
It even accepts betting on the Canadian Premier League, MLS, MLS Next Pro, US Open Cup, and National Women’s Soccer League.
Horse racing betting at TonyBet reigns supreme
Stake is a solid option for horse racing, but when it comes to betting sites in Canada there’s no better operator than TonyBet. Few, if any others, have a dedicated tab for “racing” on the top of their home page. This takes users to a page with finished and upcoming horse, harness, and greyhound races in Australia/New Zealand and International.
Boomerang Bet excels at in-play betting
There aren’t many operators that can match the amount of in-play betting options as Boomerang Bet. Just with a quick glance at a IIHF Women’s World Championship game for instance, markets include winner, total, exact goals, next goal, winning margin, etc. Players can also make in-play SGPs.
Best odds in Canada: Pinnacle wins
This one is truly a no contest. If consistent low margins and better odds is what you’re looking for then Pinnacle is the best choice. You won’t find any promotions or daily bonuses, but you will see a slightly greater percentage of earnings over time than you would from winnings at other betting sites.
Paripesa: Seamless live streaming & betting
Live betting is easiest at Paripesa. The operator has easily distinguishable icons that show which sports are live at any given time and players can even sort wagers by full-time or half-time results. Each matchup page has detailed stats and analysis for each team and their prior games. In the absence of live streams, players can at least watching live updated graphics of the action.
Virtuals, iGaming & esports: Paripesa drunks on the competition
Paripesa has esports bonuses and the largest selection of esports markets among Canadian betting sites. Players can expect to see more than 300 daily esports markets covering games like League of Legends, Valorant, Call of Duty, and Mobile Legends. Paripesa also offers pre-game and live accumulators of the day for esports.
- Runner up: Betway
TonyBet, the casino connoisseur
TonyBet has the largest online casino in Canada, with nearly 6,000 slots split into themes and other timely categories, i.e., Easter, Christmas, etc. It also has more than 100 Crash games, Drops & Wins, and BGaming Drops. In addition, the TonyBet live casino has more than 500 blackjack tables as well as roulette, Baccarat, and game shows like Sweet Bonanza Candyland.
Customer service and user hospitality: TonyBet wins
TonyBet also takes home the top prize for customer service. The contact form features different categories of concerns for players to choose from. Alternatively, players can email concerns to [email protected] and receive timely responses from staff. There’s also a live chat feature.
User experience and website functionality: Bet99 wins
Bet99 is the easiest website to navigate, both on desktop and mobile. The most popular sports are listed at the top of the page and the most popular leagues are listed below – as are daily odds boosts and specials. If you keep scrolling, you’ll see live and pre-game wagers for all leagues. There are enough graphics to make the site appealing visually, but not so many to make it look cluttered.
The best mobile app: Bet99 wins
Considering a few of the operators in the top 10 betting sites in Canada don’t even have mobile apps, it wasn’t that difficult of a decision to crown Bet99 as the best. The sportsbook and casino are in the same app, which functions almost exactly the same as the mobile site.
Live Sports Betting
Live (In-Play) sports betting is available at all sports betting sites in Canada. In-play betting enables Canadian bettors to place wagers in real-time as the action unfolds, with odds dynamically adjusting throughout a sporting event.
The popularity of live betting among Canadian bettors stems from its engaging nature. Canadians are huge sports fans, with well over 50% of the country participating in sports. With live betting, odds shift continuously in response to developments in a match or game, making it an exciting experience for many. Bettors have access to numerous betting markets, including point spreads, totals, moneylines, and game-specific props, making this one of the most dynamic forms of online sports betting.
Leading Canadian sports betting apps and the best betting sites further enhance the live betting experience through additional interactive features. These include real-time game statistics, live game streaming, and tips that offer bettors critical insights while wagering.
Gambling awareness: Pinnacle provides the best support
The responsible gaming page at Pinnacle is the most in-depth of all Canadian operators. It has nine different sections covering tools and resources such as Self-Exclusion, Session Limit, Risk Limit, and Parental Control. There’s also a self-assessment for players to determine if they’re gambling too much and a list of resources for those with problem gambling issues.
How to Select the Best Sports Betting Site in Canada for You
To choose the right platform in 2026, take these features into consideration:
- Legal Status: Ensure the site is either AGCO-licensed (in Ontario) or holds a reputable international license (for the rest of Canada).
- Mobile Wagering: The best platforms must offer a dedicated betting app for iOS and Android with biometric login.
- Payment Speed: Look for instant withdrawal options; Interac e-Transfer and PayPal are the standard for 2026.
- Market Depth: Beyond the NHL and NFL, a top site should offer live betting on UFC, NBA, and MLB.
For professional bettors, platforms like Pinnacle are essential. They don’t offer a welcome bonus but provide the lowest vigorish (vig), ensuring higher returns on single-game wagering.
The best sportsbooks in Canada must offer Interac e-Transfer as a standard. Most top-tier sites, including Betway and TonyBet, now guarantee withdrawals within 24 hours.
A high-quality sportsbook app for iOS and Android is mandatory. Look for features like FaceID login, push notifications for score updates, and a seamless Bet Builder interface.
Author’s pick: My favourite betting site and why
There isn’t much setting these best sportsbooks Canada apart. While some might appear to have better sign-up offers, these often come with high wager requirements or other hidden terms and conditions. Some of those operators with smaller bonuses, meanwhile, offer more impressive features such as daily odds boosts, free-to-play games, top-notch customer service, and a greater focus on Canadian sports.
That’s why, for my money, Bet99 is number one in the list of best legal betting sites in Canada. Not only is it the only operator on this list founded in Canada, but it also has a truly Canadian feel – it is the betting partner of the NHL and CF Montreal, has a partnership with Canadian UFC legend Georges St. Pierre, and has its own section for Canadian bet boosts. Combined with its decent First Bet Encore welcome offer, Bet99 sets itself apart from the rest of the best sports betting sites in Canada.
The competitive Canadian sports betting market continues to evolve, benefiting consumers through improved odds, innovative features, and enhanced promotional offers. By understanding your personal betting preferences and priorities, you can select the platform that best aligns with your needs from among these trusted sports betting sites.
Legality and Provincial Differences in Canadian Sports Betting
Understanding the legal landscape for sports betting in Canada is essential for bettors across different provinces. While single-game betting legislation in Canada now permits wagering on individual events nationwide, implementation varies significantly by province, and recent developments have created a dynamic regulatory environment.
Federal Law Overview
The landmark Bill C-218, passed in June 2021 and receiving royal assent on June 29, 2021, amended the Criminal Code to legalize single-game betting throughout Canada. Prior to this change, Canadians could only place parlay bets (multiple events) through provincial lottery corporations. This federal legislation shifted regulatory authority to the provinces, creating a patchwork of different approaches.
Recent Developments in Canadian Sports Betting Regulation
Several important regulatory developments are reshaping the Canadian sports betting landscape in February 2026:
- Alberta’s Open Market Launch: As of February 2026, Alberta has officially finalized its framework for an open, competitive iGaming market. Modeled closely after iGaming Ontario, the new system is expected to go live before summer 2026.
- Federal Advertising Restrictions (Bill S-211): A major development in early 2026 is the federal push to limit or outright ban sports betting advertisements. The House of Commons is currently debating a bill (following the success of Bill S-211 in the Senate) that would mandate a national framework for betting ads.
- Ontario’s Market Maturation: Entering its fourth year of operation, iGaming Ontario has set new records in 2026, with quarterly wagers surpassing $18 billion. The AGCO has intensified its enforcement, issuing high-value fines in late 2025 and early 2026 to operators who failed to meet “Behavioral Monitoring” standards.
- Manitoba & The “Gray Market” Injunctions: While most provinces still operate monopolies (like PlayNow), Manitoba made headlines in 2025/2026 by successfully seeking court injunctions to block specific offshore operators from advertising within the province.
Provincial Regulatory Models
Ontario: The most progressive approach, with the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) licensing multiple private operators through its iGaming Ontario subsidiary. This creates a competitive market similar to established European jurisdictions, with over 33 licensed online sportsbooks. Ontario’s market generated $17.2 billion in wagers during a three-month period ending December 31, 2023, and $18.4 billion in the first quarter of the 2024-25 fiscal year, demonstrating substantial growth.
Alberta: Currently operates PlayAlberta through Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC), but is transitioning to a competitive model. The iGaming Alberta Act passed its second reading in Edmonton and is undergoing clause-by-clause review. Based on statements from Alberta Minister Dale Nally, fully regulated online gambling is expected to launch.
British Columbia: The British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC) operates PlayNow.com as the province’s official platform. BC has taken a more protective stance toward its monopoly, filing court documents in August 2024 alleging that international operators are engaging in illegal marketing targeting BC residents.
Quebec: Loto-Québec’s Mise-o-jeu+ is the only provincially-sanctioned platform, with strict enforcement against unauthorized operators through ISP blocking.
Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Atlantic Provinces: These regions maintain government monopolies through provincial lottery corporations. The Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority (SIGA) partnered with BCLC to offer PlayNow, which announced profitability in its inaugural fiscal year in July 2023.
Territories: Residents of Northwest Territories, Nunavut, and Yukon can participate in sports betting through Sport Select.
Legal Status of Offshore Sportsbooks
Outside Ontario’s regulated market, the legal status of international betting sites operating in Canada is unclear. The Criminal Code prohibits operating a betting house in Canada, but enforcement focuses on operators rather than individual bettors. Key points to understand:
- No Canadian has ever been prosecuted for using offshore betting sites
- Most major international brands accept Canadian players
- Banking institutions process transactions with these sites
- Websites use Canadian-friendly payment methods like Interac
While offshore sites may lack certain provincial consumer protections, established brands maintain licenses from respected international jurisdictions like Malta, Isle of Man, and Gibraltar, ensuring adherence to industry standards for security and responsible gambling.
One example of a grey-market betting site is Roobet, which allows for crypto transactions (usually not legal in Canada’s regulated markets), and offers a welcome bonus for those outside of Ontario who sign up with the Roobet referral code.
Tax Implications for Canadian Sports Bettors
Understanding the tax implications of sports betting winnings is crucial for Canadian bettors. Unlike the United States, Canada’s approach to gambling taxation is generally more favorable for recreational bettors.
General Tax Treatment of Gambling Winnings
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) typically considers gambling winnings to be non-taxable income for recreational bettors. This favorable treatment stems from court precedents that have established gambling as a pursuit of personal enjoyment rather than a source of income.
Key points for recreational bettors:
- Winnings from sports betting are generally tax-free
- Losses cannot be claimed as deductions
- No requirement to report recreational gambling winnings on tax returns
- Applies to both domestic and offshore sportsbook winnings
Professional Gamblers: Different Rules Apply
The tax situation changes significantly if the CRA determines that your betting activities constitute a “business” rather than recreation. In such cases, winnings become taxable as business income.
Factors that may lead the CRA to classify someone as a professional gambler:
- Systematic and organized approach to betting
- Sophisticated betting systems or algorithms
- Significant time commitment to betting activities
- The primary source of income comes from gambling
- Consistent profitability over multiple years
Professional gamblers must:
- Report all betting income on their tax returns
- Keep detailed records of all betting activities
- Pay applicable federal and provincial income taxes
- May deduct reasonable expenses related to betting activities
Documentation and Reporting
While recreational bettors don’t need to report winnings, it’s still advisable to maintain records of significant wins, particularly for:
- Large withdrawals that might trigger bank reporting requirements
- Establishing the source of funds for major purchases
- Proving recreational status if questioned by tax authorities
Most reputable Canadian betting sites provide transaction histories that can help with record-keeping.
Responsible Gambling in Canada
Safe and sustainable betting practices are essential for enjoying sports wagering as entertainment rather than developing problematic behaviors. All trusted sports betting sites in Canada provide tools to promote responsible gambling, but understanding and using these resources proactively is crucial.
Tools and Resources for Responsible Betting
Canadian betting sites offer various responsible gambling features that help maintain control:
- Deposit limits: Set daily, weekly, or monthly caps on how much you can deposit
- Wager limits: Restrict the amount you can bet within a specific timeframe
- Loss limits: Establish maximum loss thresholds that prevent further betting
- Session time limits: Receive notifications after spending a set amount of time on the platform
- Reality checks: Regular pop-up reminders about time spent gambling
- Temporary time-outs: Short-term breaks from gambling activities (24 hours to 6 weeks)
- Self-exclusion: Long-term or permanent blocking from gambling platforms
- Account history: Transparent record of all betting activity and financial transactions
Canadian Problem Gambling Support Organizations
If you or someone you know needs support for gambling-related issues, these organizations provide confidential assistance:
- ConnexOntario (1-866-531-2600): 24/7 support, information, and referrals
- Gambling Support BC (1-888-795-6111): Free counseling and resources
- Gambling Help Alberta (1-866-332-2322): 24/7 crisis counseling
- Gambling Awareness Nova Scotia: Prevention and education programs
- Problem Gambling Helpline Manitoba (1-800-463-1554): Confidential support
- Responsible Gambling Council: Evidence-based prevention and education
Remember that responsible gambling is about maintaining control and ensuring that betting remains an enjoyable recreational activity rather than a source of problems.
Top Betting Events in Canada Throughout the Year
Canada’s sports calendar offers numerous exciting betting opportunities throughout the year. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the most popular betting events among Canadian punters, from hockey to horse racing and everything in between.
NHL Hockey (October-June)
The National Hockey League remains the premier betting attraction for Canadian sports fans, with particular interest in the seven Canadian teams: Toronto Maple Leafs, Montreal Canadiens, Vancouver Canucks, Edmonton Oilers, Calgary Flames, Winnipeg Jets, and Ottawa Senators.
Key Betting Opportunities:
- Regular season games (82 per team)
- Stanley Cup Playoffs (April-June)
- Winter Classic and Heritage Classic outdoor games
- NHL All-Star Weekend
- NHL Draft (bet builders and player prop markets)
Canadian sportsbooks typically offer enhanced odds and special promotions for NHL games involving Canadian teams, particularly during Hockey Night in Canada broadcasts and playoff series.
NBA Basketball (October-June)
The Toronto Raptors’ 2019 championship run dramatically increased basketball betting interest across Canada, making NBA wagering the second most popular sport for Canadian bettors.
Key Betting Opportunities:
- Regular season Raptors games
- NBA Playoffs and Finals
- NBA Draft Lottery and Draft
- NBA All-Star Weekend
MLB Baseball (April-October)
The Toronto Blue Jays serve as Canada’s team in Major League Baseball, generating significant betting action throughout the summer months.
Key Betting Opportunities:
- Regular-season Blue Jays games
- MLB Playoffs and World Series
- Home Run Derby and All-Star Game
- Player prop markets featuring Canadian MLB players
CFL Football (June-November)
The Canadian Football League’s nine teams across the country create regional betting interest, with the league’s unique rules offering different betting dynamics from the NFL.
Key Betting Opportunities:
- Regular season games
- Labour Day Classic rivalries
- Grey Cup Playoffs and Championship
- CFL Draft
UFC and Combat Sports (Year-round)
Canadian fighters like Georges St-Pierre have created strong betting interest in UFC events, with most major Canadian sportsbooks offering extensive markets for fights featuring Canadian athletes.
Key Betting Opportunities:
- Pay-per-view main events
- UFC Fight Night cards
- Special promotions for Canadian fighters
- Title fights in all weight classes
Major Horse Racing Events (April-October)
Horse racing maintains a dedicated betting audience in Canada, centered around these premier events:
Key Betting Opportunities:
- Queen’s Plate at Woodbine (Canada’s oldest thoroughbred race)
- Prince of Wales Stakes at Fort Erie
- Breeders’ Stakes at Woodbine
- Canadian International
- Woodbine Oaks
- International events including Kentucky Derby, Preakness, Belmont Stakes
Soccer Betting (Year-round)
Soccer betting continues to grow in popularity, particularly with three Canadian teams in MLS and the Canadian national teams gaining prominence.
Key Betting Opportunities:
- Toronto FC, CF Montreal, and Vancouver Whitecaps MLS matches
- Canadian Championship tournament
- Canadian Premier League matches
- Canadian Men’s and Women’s National Team competitions
- Major European leagues (Premier League, La Liga, Bundesliga)
- UEFA Champions League and international tournaments
Tennis Grand Slams (January, May, July, August/September)
Canadian stars like Bianca Andreescu, Denis Shapovalov, and Felix Auger-Aliassime have increased betting interest in tennis events.
Key Betting Opportunities:
- Australian Open (January)
- French Open (May/June)
- Wimbledon (June/July)
- US Open (August/September)
- National Bank Open tournaments in Toronto and Montreal
Winter Olympic Games (February 2026)
The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano-Cortina will generate substantial betting interest in events where Canadian athletes traditionally excel.
Key Betting Opportunities:
- Ice hockey (men’s and women’s)
- Curling
- Figure skating
- Freestyle skiing
- Snowboarding
- Speed skating
Seasonal Betting Calendar Highlights
January-March:
- NHL regular season intensifies
- Super Bowl (highest single-game betting event)
- March Madness college basketball tournament
April-June:
- NHL and NBA Playoffs
- MLB season begins
- Kentucky Derby and Triple Crown races
- French Open tennis
July-September:
- CFL season in full swing
- MLB pennant races
- US Open tennis
- Start of European soccer seasons
October-December:
- NHL and NBA seasons begin
- CFL Playoffs and Grey Cup
- NFL regular season
- World Junior Hockey Championship
Most Canadian sportsbooks offer special promotions, enhanced odds, and exclusive bet builder options during these peak betting periods, creating additional value opportunities for informed bettors.
Frequently Asked Questions about Sports Betting Sites in Canada
Is online sports betting legal in Canada?
Yes, sports betting is legal throughout Canada following the passage of Bill C-218 in 2021, which legalized single-game betting. However, regulatory frameworks vary by province. Currently, Ontario is the only province with a fully regulated open market, while other provinces use a mix of lottery-run sites and offshore betting sites.
Do I need a promo code to claim welcome bonuses?
Some sportsbooks require specific bonus codes, while others apply welcome offers automatically upon first deposit. Our reviews specify when codes are needed.
What sports can I bet on?
Canadian bettors have access to a wide range of sports through licensed sportsbooks, including major North American leagues (NHL, NBA, NFL, MLB, MLS), Canadian-specific leagues (CFL, CEBL, CPL), international football/soccer leagues, tennis, golf, UFC/MMA, boxing
Motorsports (F1, NASCAR, IndyCar), esports (CS2, Dota 2, League of Legends), winter sports (skiing, snowboarding), horse racing and greyhound racing, and more niche sports (cricket, rugby, darts, snooker).
Where can I bet on sports in Canada?
Canadians have several options for legal sports betting provincial lottery corporation platforms (PlayNow, PROLINE, Mise-o-jeu+), licensed private operators in Ontario (33+ options), international offshore sportsbooks, retail locations (casinos, lottery kiosks, racetracks), and tribal gaming facilities.
Which betting site has the best mobile app?
bet365 and Sports Interaction currently hold the highest ratings for mobile wagering apps in the Canadian App Store, cited for speed and cash out functionality.
How old must I be to bet on sports in Canada?
The legal gambling age varies by province: 19 years in most provinces and territories, but 18 years in Alberta, Manitoba, and Quebec.
What is the best sportsbook in Canada today?
The best sportsbook in Canada today is Melbet.
Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. We may receive a commission if you sign up through these links, at no additional cost to you. This compensation helps support our comprehensive research and testing process, ensuring we provide accurate and up-to-date information about the Canadian betting market. All recommendations are based on our independent analysis and personal testing experience.