Ontario license information and FAQ
We are pleased to inform you that we have new versions of our desktop software and apps, in preparation for a launch of a locally licensed offering in Ontario. All players who reside in Ontario will need to migrate to the new versions of our desktop software and apps, which offer the same great features you currently enjoy.
Here's everything you need to know about the migration to Ontario platform.
The migration to the new platform will start in late June 2022.
Yes, migration is mandatory for all account holders living in Ontario. If you don't live in Ontario and receive a message to migrate your account, reach out to our support team with your current address details.
No. If you live in Ontario and have an account with us, you must migrate it to the new platform.
To migrate your existing account to the Ontario platform, follow these steps:
- Log in to your current user account.
- You'll see a pop-up message "Ontario residents will now play on on.pokerstars.ca".
- Select the button "OK, move to on.pokerstars.ca".
- You'll see a pop-up message confirming that we moved the account.
- To confirm the migration, you'll need to log out.
- Our software will be updated appropriately and ready to use when you log in again. If you're using our mobile app, you'll need to download the Ontario platform. You can download it using one of the links shown on the screen.
- You can log in to the Ontario platform using your usual username and password.
- The balance will be converted to CAD and transferred to the new account.
- We'll consolidate and convert to cash any T-Money and T-Tickets you may have.
- StarsCoin will be converted to cash pre-migration with separate automation.
- Rewards Chests will be force opened pre-migration with separate automation.
- Open bets will be voided pre-migration with separate automation.
Yes, you will have access to PokerStars Rewards in Ontario.
All of them will be carried over when you migrate.
We'll convert these into cash before migration.
Yes, there are some scenarios where you would need to take action to complete the move (which is required to keep playing). These are:
| Scenario | Solution |
|---|---|
| You have a pending withdrawal. | Wait until processed (up to 48 hours), or cancel it through the ‘Cashier’, via ‘Pending Withdrawals', then complete the steps under 'How can I migrate my account?') |
| You have excluded yourself from play. | Wait until the self-exclusion has expired, then complete the steps under 'How can I migrate my account?' |
| You have a negative balance. | Contact Support for help. |
| You are registered in an existing poker tournament. | Finish playing in any ongoing tournaments, and unregister from any upcoming tournaments |
| You are in an existing poker cash game or have an active Casino session. | Finish the game you are playing before completing the process |
| You are under 19. | You must be at least 19 years old to play on PokerStars in Ontario. You can't legally gamble if you're under this age and will need to withdraw your funds from your account balance. |
Once you open your account, you're asked to verify your account. You can upload your documents via our software, mobile app, or website.
- Utility Bill (i.e., Gas, Electricity, internet, etc.)
- Bank Statement
- Correspondence from Government/Locals Authorities
- Insurance documents (valid within the year)
- Financial Institution letters
- Formal Declaration form
- Alternatively, you may send these, which we will review on a case-by-case basis:
- Payslip/Employers letters
- Rental agreements (with date and signature)
- Mobile Bills
You can change your residence details if you live legally in a different state or country. You'll need to send us the appropriate supporting documents to do this. If you no longer reside in Ontario, you'll no longer be able to play on the Ontario license.
You'll still have access to the same great games and features you currently enjoy across all our products. However, you can only play against other players on the Ontario license, and you will only be able to access real money gaming while being in Ontario.
You can deposit and withdraw in Canadian dollars (CAD) only.
Generally, online gambling winnings of an individual who plays online as a hobby shouldn't be considered a taxable income in Canada. However, an individual's gambling activities may result in taxable business income or a business loss under certain circumstances. It would be best to get tax advice from your tax advisor to know whether or not you could be seen as carrying on a gambling business and generating taxable business income or loss.
No-Limit Hold'em, Pot Limit Omaha, 6+ Hold'em, and Tempest will all be available as Cash Games. Other poker games may be available from time to time in a tournament format.
Due to regulations, players in Ontario can only play against other players in Ontario.
No.
No.
No. There are certain sports we can't offer as part of the Ontario license, such as Horse Racing.
No.
No.
The migration doesn't affect any rules on our tables and games. As a courtesy to other players, we must ask that you only use English at the tables (unless other languages are listed as approved at the table/tournament).
Feel free to contact our support team at any time. We're here to help!