Gaming attorney Jeff Ifrah suggests the province is “actively seeking” a solution
Ontario could be getting closer to opening its online poker tables to players outside the province, including those in the United States. Although the province’s market is currently restricted to residents within Ontario, legal efforts are underway to expand its reach, and according to gaming attorney Jeff Ifrah, connecting to international or US player pools is a real possibility.
Ifrah recently pointed to remarks from Ontario Attorney General Doug Downey, who reportedly told lawmakers at the National Council of Legislators from Gaming States (NCLGS) summer meeting that the province is actively seeking legal permission to open its online poker games to players from other legal jurisdictions, including the US.
At the heart of the issue is a case pending before the Ontario Court of Appeal. The province filed an application asking for clarity on whether its residents can legally participate in online games that involve players from outside its borders. Major operators like GGPoker and PokerStars have already voiced their support, arguing that international play can be managed under Ontario’s regulatory framework without violating the Criminal Code.
While a court ruling is still pending, Ifrah believes Ontario is well-positioned to eventually join shared player networks. Although the province isn’t currently pursuing formal membership in the US-based Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement (MSIGA), which includes Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and others, Ifrah says there’s no legal reason Ontario couldn’t be added to the compact.
He also noted Ontario’s interest in partnering with European markets like the UK and Germany, which already allow shared liquidity. “It’s 100% possible,” Ifrah said, adding that a favorable court decision would leave all options open.
If Ontario fails to gain approval for international pooling, it may still consider linking with Alberta’s future online poker market, which is expected to launch in 2026. For now, much depends on the upcoming decision from Ontario’s highest court.
