Learn about the impact that MGA-certified casinos have on Canada's gambling industry.

Magda Olbea

Casino expert

Updated:
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Experience the best of online gaming with MGA-licensed casinos! If it sounds too perfect to be true, hang in there as we unfold what this license means for Canadian players and how it ensures your safety.

Online casinos in Canada with Malta Gaming Authority Licensing.

You've probably noticed that many online platforms in Canada feature a license from the Malta Gaming Authority, which is noted for providing legitimate and reliable gambling sites.

Remember, having the right information is key. Understanding what the Maltese authorities offer to Canadian players is crucial for grasping the importance of gambling licenses and their impact.

So, you might ask:

Why would a regulatory body from Malta be relevant to the Canadian gambling market?

That's a completely logical question to ask.

Let's dive into the next part to comprehensively explain the link between these entities.

In what ways does the MGA license affect Canada's gambling regulatory framework?

Discussion on the MGA license and its role within Canadian gambling regulation.

The Malta Gaming Authority holds sway in the world of iGaming. It's behind the prestigious SIGMA conference, a leader in the sector.

But that isn’t the sole reason for the MGA's prominent position in the field.

Malta led the charge as the first nation to regulate its online gaming ventures, ensuring it remains at the forefront of the industry.

Having highlighted the influence of this regulatory entity, let’s delve into its connections with the Canadian gaming market.

The point is:

Malta permits users from 180 countries, including Canada, to access MGA-licensed platforms.

How?

This is partly because Malta and Canada are both part of the Commonwealth of Nations.

This global grouping strives to promote international cooperation and boost economic growth, which influences social progress and human rights.

Moreover, Canada lacks a counterpart in terms of gambling licensing, thereby depending on the stringent regulation offered by Malta.

What protections and assurances does the MGA license provide for Canadian users?

MGA licence protection

Ultimately, whether you're skeptical or confident about these platforms, it's indisputable that MGA-licensed casinos offer robust support.

As a player, you'd have rights—rights we’ve detailed extensively to ensure clarity. An MGA license assures your rights are honored, furnishing a risk-free playground.

Here’s the assortment of what the MGA delivers:

  • Protection of your funds

Operators licensed by MGA must ensure that customers' money is always separated from their operational funds.

The reason is simple!

This measure is crucial to protect your funds if an online casino ceases operations due to financial problems. Neither casinos nor creditors can touch players' money.

  • The protection of players via stringent guidelines

Gambling operators must enforce diligent policies to thwart theft, underage wagering, or unlawful activity during online gambling.

  • Fair results

Regular audits are conducted by the gaming authority on casinos. They undergo numerous tests, such as evaluating the RNGs of the games and the odds provided by the operators.

  • An accredited authority you can rely on

Suppose you need to raise a dispute.

With an MGA license, you have reliable backing.

Absent a regulatory board, Canadian gamers might find themselves defenseless in disputes with casino operators. The MGA helps ensure fairness.

  • An agency spotlighting responsible gaming

The gambling domain yields sizeable revenue internationally, and Canada shares in this economic boon. Yet, these profits may come with challenges.

Particularly, problematic gaming is a concern. The MGA is lauded for its initiatives in raising awareness and facilitating the cessation of gaming when needed.

  • A regulatory body accessible for dialogue

The Malta Gaming Authority functions not solely as a guardian for players but also mediates disputes.

The body is reputed for fostering open dialogue with consumers and aiding investigations of mistreatments.

Steps to verify if your chosen online casino is overseen by the MGA.

Checking the regulation status of MGA-endorsed casinos

We're here to guide you through checking whether an online casino's licensing is valid. After this, you'll know the precise steps to take!

There are two main steps:

    1. After visiting the casino site, scroll to the very bottom to confirm the MGA logo is there.

The logo is:

    Malta Gaming Authority logo

      However, merely spotting the MGA logo doesn't always guarantee that the license is genuine.

        Therefore, we advise additional checks.

          Having said that, let’s continue to the next procedure.

          1. Utilize the mga.org.mt/mgalicenseeregister/ portal. With this site, you can verify your chosen casino's MGA license validity.

          A preview of what you'll encounter upon opening the link:

          Search for the gambling site on the MGA license register

          The official Maltese platform is quite user-friendly. You can choose by casino operator or enter the specific URL.

          We have used 888casino for demonstration.

          Click search, and you’ll find:

          Casino details about MGA licence

          You’ll see comprehensive information about the website, such as its authorization type, number, and the license status.

          Easy, right?

          Get to know the MGA

          Get to know the MGA

          The Malta Gaming Authority, abbreviated as MGA, serves as the supervision board over diverse types of gambling activities, both online and offline.

          True to its title, it's a Maltese control body. It emerged in 2001 and has curated a stringent legislative framework since. This began with the Lotteries and Other Games Act, 2001, followed by Malta's legal chapters 438 and 400.

          Why?

          To secure the well-being of every participant in gaming activities.

          A transparent entity must cultivate trust with its audience, best achieved through a license from a globally recognized authority.

          Did you know: The Maltese gambling industry's rapid growth since 2001 now accounts for 12% of the country's GDP.

          Key functions of the Malta Gaming Authority

          Perhaps unnoticed, but the Malta Gaming Authority imposes rigorous standards industry-wide. That's because their licensed operators are held to demanding regulations.

          The secure and open environment you experience on an MGA certified casino is thanks to principles set by the regulatory authority.

          What occurs if an operator fails MGA's expectations?

          It’s simple!

          Their licence will be removed.

          Malta Gaming Authority has various roles, but here are its primary duties:

          • Analyzing the iGaming sector and solidifying regulatory capabilities;
          • Issuing and managing gaming licenses;
          • Endorsing advancements in the gaming sector and tech innovations;
          • Ensuring protection for players, vulnerable individuals, including minors;
          • Upholding player rights by assessing concerns and offering advice or mediation as needed;
          • Preventing gaming from being exploited for unlawful purposes.

          What type of licences does MGA provide?

          MGA Types of Licences

          There are four types of licences:

          1. Category 1 generally covers activities like lottery draws, games of chance specifically in casinos, and also skill-based games;
          2. Category 2 is generally focused on various betting activities, often involving head-to-head wagering;
          3. Category 3 includes activities centered around betting between individuals as well as using betting exchange platforms;
          4. Class 4 refers to software vendors .

          The Maltese authority overseeing gambling, both online and in physical locations, plays a crucial role in ensuring regulatory compliance. When they issue a license, it ensures that everything follows the rules, creating a secure setup. As a result, many tech-savvy students who develop virtual casinos aim to have their products certified by MGA, since it builds customer confidence and signifies a secure platform.

          Apart from the four main classifications, the MGA also provides licenses for additional services and games:

          • Advertising lotteries;
          • Amusement machines;
          • Casino;
          • Commercial bingo;
          • Cruise casinos;
          • National Lottery;
          • Non-profit games;
          • Racecourse bets & sweepstakes;
          • Remote gambling.

          Want to raise a complaint to the MGA?

          MGA Complaint

          If you experience any unfair dealings with your gambling site, it's unfortunate, but we are committed to resolving such issues. In these instances, you have the option to report the incident to the Malta Gaming Authority.

          How?

          To initiate this process, visit their official web page and head over to the section dedicated to customer support.

          Once there, locate and choose the option titled 'Online Gaming Support' from the list of available selections.

          You'll need to fill out an application where you provide personal details such as your full name, the gaming company you are reporting, alongside a brief explanation of the situation.

          Yet, it's crucial to first try and sort out the problem directly with the casino site in question before reaching out to this governing body.

          Can you trust online casinos that are operating under an MGA license?

          Trusted MGA licensed casinos

          Keep in mind! Having an MGA license means a casino must pass through rigorous checks and adhere to stringent standards. Therefore, if you are a patron from Canada, you can bet that you are engaging in a protected and secure gambling environment thanks to the oversight by this regulatory body.

          Your security is our highest concern! Our team has crafted a comprehensive resource collection best-ranked of online casinos that not only presents benefits to enhance your casino enjoyment, but also guarantees security and trustworthiness.

          We are here to help you make informed decisions about your gambling choices. Keep up with us to stay informed!

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