If you ever feel like you need a break from online gambling, or like you’re losing control, we’re here to help. In this guide, our experts will talk you through the casino self-exclusion process, how to enroll, and everything else you need to know about this responsible gambling tool.
What is Self-exclusion?
Self-exclusion is a safety measure that allows players to block their own access to their online casino account upon request. If you think you’re spending too much money or time gambling, self-exclusion can help by removing the temptation entirely.
The length of self-exclusion varies by casino, with the minimum period typically being six months, though we have seen some platforms allow bans of up to five years or longer. During this time, casinos are legally required to deny access to players and refrain from sending gambling-related marketing materials.
Self-exclusion: as A Powerful Tool for Responsible Gambling
Gambling can be a lot of fun – until it’s not. If you’re like most of the players we hear from, the idea of responsible gambling might seem unnecessary or even overcautious when you started gambling. You might think: “I know what I’m doing. My gambling is under control, and I can stop whenever I want.”
Thankfully, this is true for the vast majority of players. They can trust their gut, and gambling is never something they have to worry about. But for some, what begins as a fun-filled activity, becomes a habit that is difficult to manage, and one that negatively impacts their finances, relationships, and overall well-being. This is where self-exclusion might be an avenue you need to explore.
Understanding self-exclusion options across gambling platforms
The table below outlines the most common self-exclusion durations, their availability across platforms, and whether they can be reversed after completion:
Exclusion Period | Availability | Possibility for Reversal |
|---|---|---|
6 Months | Standard at most casinos | Yes, but only after the self-exclusion period ends. |
1 Year | Regularly available option | Yes, but only after the self-exclusion period ends. |
2 Years | Less frequently offered | Yes, but only after the self-exclusion period ends. |
5 Years | Often the maximum self-exclusion period at casinos | Yes, but only after the self-exclusion period ends. |
Permanent | Available on limited platforms | No, this measure is irreversible. |
How Self-Exclusion Programs Work Across Canadian Provinces
Most self-exclusion programs we’ve come across apply to just one specific casino or a set of casinos owned by the same parent company. However, some provinces run programs that cover all regulated sites operating under their respective licenses.
Ontario
Ontario online casinos players can join the iGaming Self-Exclusion Program, which blocks access to all iGaming Ontario casinos and removes them from promotions. The minimum exclusion period is six months, with longer options available. Casino account reactivation requires a formal request after the term ends.
British Columbia
Players looking for gambling sites in BC can opt into Game Break, a province-wide program managed by the British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC). You can select a term between six months and five years for self-exclusion.
BCLC also offers budget setting tools and self-assessment resources to promote safer gambling in Canada. We recommend every player take advantage of these resources to keep their gambling in check.
Quebec
Loto-Québec runs a self-exclusion program for online casinos in Quebec, allowing a minimum six-month ban, with options extending up to five years. During this time, gaming accounts remain inaccessible, and self-excluded players won’t receive promotions or be able to create new profiles.
Living in Nova Scotia? Find out more about responsible gambling tools for Nova Scotia players.
Top Casinos Offering Self-Exclusion: Compared
The table below shows the availability of these tools at Canada’s best online casinos, so that you can choose a gambling site that prioritizes your health and safety.
How to Self-Exclude From Your Casino in a Few Easy Steps
If you’re ready to step away from online gambling temporarily or permanently, self-exclusion can help you take stock and re-evaluate. Once active, you won’t be able to access your casino account or be able to create a new account. This allows you to move forward with peace of mind by limiting the temptation of going back.
As one of our top-rated Canadian casinos for responsible gambling, here’s how to join the self-exclusion list at FatFruit Casino. The process is similar across all platforms with self-exclusion:
Step 1:
Log in to the casino you wish to self-exclude from and visit the responsible gambling section of the site.
Step 2:
The options available might include self-exclusion, deposit limits, loss limits, session reminders, and so on.
Step 3:
Select ‘Self-exclusion’ and choose a timeframe (if multiple options are available).
Step 4:
Once confirmed, access to your casino account will be blocked for the selected period.
Step 5:
Any active account balance may be refunded, depending on the casino’s policy.
Step 6:
After your self-exclusion period ends, if you feel ready to return, you’ll need to contact the casino’s customer support to request reactivation.
Testimonials from Canadian Gamblers About Self-exclusion
Problem gambling can be debilitating and ruin lives. For those struggling to control their spending, self-exclusion is a crucial step toward regaining control and reassessing their relationship with gambling.
We know this is true because we’ve seen it first-hand and heard from dozens of players who’ve successfully used self-exclusion programs in Canada to either break their gambling habit or take a break and return to safer, more responsible play. Here are some of their testimonies:
Self-exclusion helped me take back control
When I finally self-excluded from my online casino, it felt like giving up my only source of enjoyment. But as the months passed, I started seeing the bigger picture. I took time to rebuild my finances, learn bankroll management, and realized I didn’t need to gamble out of desperation. When my exclusion period ended after six months, I didn’t jump back in right away. But when I did, I set myself strict rules to maintain control Now, I play for entertainment, not for an escape.
How self-exclusion gave me my life back
Enrolling in permanent self-exclusion was the best decision I ever made. I stopped feeling trapped, my anxiety eased, and I finally had space to focus on my health and well-being. Today, I use my time and money for things that truly bring me joy.
Is Self-exclusion is Right for You?
We wish we could give you a definitive answer for whether self-exclusion is the right responsible gambling measure for you, but unfortunately, it’s hard to know. Gambling risks vary, and every player experiences them differently. However, there are certain indications of problem gambling, where self-exclusion may be a better option for players than less restrictive measures.
The first thing you should do is identify if you have a problem. To do this, we recommend taking this gambling self-assessment quiz developed by the Responsible Gambling Council.
If you have a problem, you’ll need to develop a strategy for your next steps. Self-exclusion is typically a last resort when other responsible gambling tools – like deposit limits, loss limits, etc. – haven’t been enough.
More Responsible Gambling Tools You Can Use
For problem gamblers, self-exclusion can be a powerful step toward recovery. However, as you can see from the table above, if this measure doesn’t feel like the right step, you can always start with tools like deposit or time limits to help manage your play.
In our experience, these alternative options offer more flexibility and allow you to set healthy boundaries before considering the more drastic measure of self-exclusion. You can find and set up these tools any time in the responsible gambling section of your online casino account.
We recommend setting them up right away after you create your account. The best way to combat problem gambling is to identify bad habits as early as possible.
Here’s how these responsible gambling tools stack up and compare:
| Safety Measure | How It Works | Severity |
| Reality Checks | Displays reminders about your session duration. | Low |
| Session Limits | Limits how long you can play in a single session. | Low |
| Wager Limits | Caps the amount you can bet within a set period | Moderate |
| Deposit Limits | Restricts how much you can deposit per day, week, or month. | Moderate |
| Time-Out | Temporarily blocks access to your account. | High |
Beyond Casinos: Where To Turn Next for Help With Problem Gambling
Where to turn next for help with problem gambling
In addition to self-exclusion programs in Canada, various organizations offer valuable resources and support to help individuals with problem gambling. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling addiction, reaching out to these services is a crucial step toward recovery.
Responsible Gambling Council (RGC)
Tel: +1 (416) 499-9800
Website: https://www.responsiblegambling.org/
ConnexOntario
Tel: 1-866-531-2600
Website: https://www.connexontario.ca/
Ontario Problem Gambling Helpline
Contact Number: 1-888-230-3505
Website: https://www.opgh.on.ca/
Gambling Support BC
Tel: 1-888-795-6111
Website: https://www.gamblingsupportbc.ca/
FAQ
Yes, in addition to those listed above, organizations like GameSense and Gambling Therapy offer support services, counselling, and resources for individuals seeking help.
Generally, self-exclusion is irreversible until the chosen period concludes. Early termination is typically not permitted to ensure the program’s effectiveness.
Many Canadian provinces offer separate self-exclusion programs for land-based casinos. Contact your provincial gambling authority for specific information on enrolling.
Players can enrol through their province’s gambling authority or directly via the online casino’s responsible gambling section. Registration typically involves providing personal identification and selecting an exclusion duration.
Exclusion periods vary by province, but commonly range from six months to five years. Some Canadian self-exclusion programs also offer indefinite or lifetime bans.
Your account will be suspended, preventing logins, deposits, and play. Additionally, you will be removed from marketing lists to avoid promotional materials being sent.
