What is self-exclusion?
Bob Mitchell
Last Updated:
15 Dec 2024
A formal process that blocks you from gambling at one or more casinos for a set period. Available at all reputable operators and through provincial programmes in Canada, including Ontario's iGO system.
What self-exclusion is
Self-exclusion is a formal agreement between a player and a casino, or group of casinos, that prevents the player from accessing gambling services for a set period. Once applied, a self-exclusion cannot be reversed during the exclusion period, regardless of how you feel about it later. This is intentional: the purpose is to create a genuine barrier, not a speed bump.
Most reputable casinos offer self-exclusion periods of one month, three months, six months, one year, or permanent. Some offer a cooling-off period as a lighter alternative, typically 24 hours to seven days, that gives you time away without committing to a longer exclusion.
Provincial self-exclusion in Canada
In Ontario, iGaming Ontario operates a province-wide self-exclusion programme. When you self-exclude through any AGCO-licensed operator, you are blocked from all licensed Ontario platforms simultaneously. Other provinces operate similar programmes through their own gaming authorities. For players using offshore casinos, self-exclusion must be applied individually at each casino and does not carry across automatically.
If gambling is causing problems
Self-exclusion works best as one part of a broader approach. In Ontario, ConnexOntario can be reached at 1-866-531-2600, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, free and confidential. Every province has its own support line. Talking to someone costs nothing and does not commit you to anything.