What Is Self-Exclusion?
A formal, legally-binding agreement between you and your province's gambling regulator
Self-exclusion is a responsible gambling tool that allows you to voluntarily ban yourself from gambling for a fixed period, or permanently. When you register, your details are shared with every licensed operator under that provincial regulator, and your accounts are closed, bonuses cancelled, and access blocked across the entire licensed network simultaneously.
Unlike simply deleting an app or closing one account, self-exclusion is a systemic block. In Ontario, for example, a single registration with iGaming Ontario covers every one of the 60+ licensed online operators at once. You cannot create a new account with any of them during your exclusion period.
Self-exclusion removes the option to gamble in moments of weakness, when willpower alone is not enough. It's not a sign of failure; it's a structured, evidence-backed intervention that has helped hundreds of thousands of Canadians regain control. Research shows that self-exclusion, when combined with counselling, significantly reduces gambling frequency and financial harm.
How Self-Exclusion Works
From registration to reinstatement: the complete process
Visit your provincial regulator's website or call their helpline. You'll provide your name, date of birth, address, and a photo ID. The process takes roughly 5 minutes online. Your exclusion is active within 24-72 hours across all covered operators.
Every licensed operator under your provincial regulator is notified. Your existing accounts are suspended and permanently closed. Any funds in your account are returned to you via your original payment method.
You are removed from all promotional lists. No bonus offers, free spins, re-engagement emails, or SMS messages. Licensed operators are required by regulation to ensure excluded players receive zero marketing communications.
Your exclusion remains active for the duration you chose. It does NOT expire automatically; when your period ends, you must actively contact the regulator to request reinstatement, and a mandatory cooling-off period applies before access is restored.
What Self-Exclusion Actually Blocks
A clear breakdown of what is and is not covered, with no surprises
Important: Provincial exclusions do not cover offshore sites. If you're concerned about accessing unlicensed sites, consider adding a website blocker like Gamban, BetBlocker, or Gamblock alongside your provincial exclusion for comprehensive coverage.
Self-Exclusion by Province
Each province operates its own program. Here is exactly how to register in yours.
What to Expect and How to Make It Count
Self-exclusion works best as part of a broader plan. Here's how to use the time well.
Registering for self-exclusion is the first step, but what you do during the exclusion period determines your long-term outcome. The evidence is clear: people who combine self-exclusion with professional support have significantly better outcomes than those who use exclusion alone.
Reinstatement: Returning to Gambling Responsibly
Exclusions don't expire on their own. Here's how reinstatement works if you choose to return.
When your chosen exclusion period ends, your account access remains blocked until you actively contact your provincial regulator to request reinstatement. A mandatory cooling-off period (typically 30-90 days depending on the province) then applies before access is restored.
Before reinstating: Talk to a counsellor first. Research shows people who consult a professional before ending self-exclusion are significantly less likely to experience a relapse. ConnexOntario (1-866-531-2600) can connect you with a gambling counsellor free of charge.
Self-Exclusion vs Other Responsible Gambling Tools
Which tools to use and when. Self-exclusion is not always the first step.
| Tool | Best For | Reversible? | Severity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deposit Limits | Preventing overspending while continuing to play | Yes, with a 24-48hr delay to increase | Mild precaution |
| Time Limits | Controlling session length and daily play time | Yes, with a 24hr delay to increase | Mild precaution |
| Reality Checks | Staying aware of time and money spent mid-session | Yes, toggle on or off | Awareness tool |
| Time-Outs / Cool-Down | Short break (24hr - 6 weeks) without full exclusion | Yes, resumes automatically | Moderate concern |
| Self-Exclusion | Significant loss of control, harm to finances or wellbeing | No; a mandatory cooling-off period applies | Serious concern |
| Account Closure | Permanently leaving a specific operator | Generally no | Serious / final |
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about self-exclusion in Canada, answered plainly
