For years, Prince Edward Island was the exception in Atlantic Canada: no regulated online casino, and a provincial plan that stalled in 2021 after opposition from MLAs of all parties. That changed in 2026. CBC reported in July that the province had quietly opened Atlantic Lottery’s online casino games to Islanders.
Many casino sites still say PEI has no regulated online option. They’re out of date. Here’s what’s available now and how it compares with offshore casinos.
Quick answer: Atlantic Lottery’s online casino at alc.ca is now open to people with a PEI phone number or address, which makes it the Island’s regulated option. PEI was the last Atlantic province to get it. The minimum age is 19. Offshore casinos accept Islanders but aren’t regulated here. Red Shores runs casinos in Charlottetown and Summerside.
Online Gambling in PEI at a Glance
| Item | Prince Edward Island |
|---|---|
| Regulated online casino | Atlantic Lottery (alc.ca), since 2026 |
| Who can access it | People with a PEI phone number or address |
| Private operator licences | None |
| Minimum age | 19 |
| Land-based casinos | Red Shores, Charlottetown and Summerside |
| Help line | 1-855-255-4255 |
What Changed in 2026
PEI’s cabinet approved an online casino arrangement in late 2020, but the plan was put on hold in 2021 after criticism from MLAs. As recently as early 2026, reports were still saying there were no plans for one.
By July 2026, CBC reported that access was open. The province said its aim is to give Islanders who choose to gamble online “a safer way to play”. Atlantic Lottery said it wants to move players from illegal sites to alc.ca. Atlantic Lottery’s app listing now names PEI, with slots, table games and live dealers. An addiction expert quoted by CBC warned that easier access raises the chance of gambling problems, which is worth keeping in mind.
Atlantic Lottery’s Online Casino
Atlantic Lottery is owned jointly by the four Atlantic provinces, so its profits come back to them. It’s the safest option on the Island because it’s the one inside the provincial system. The downside is a smaller library than a large offshore casino, and no regulated competitor.
Offshore Casinos for PEI Players
If you want a wider choice, these are the casinos we rate highest outside Ontario and Alberta, with licences checked at the regulator.
100% up to C$1,000
+ 100 Free Spins
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100% Welcome bonus up to C$750
140 Free Spins
First deposit will be matched up to $400
Following two are matched up to $300 each
Welcome deposit bonus up to $1600
50 Free Spins
100% up to C$500
+ 500 Free Spins
200% deposit match
with promo code
100% up to C$500
+ 50 Free Spins
Our full real money casino ranking covers every site we’ve tested.
Is Offshore Play Legal in PEI?
Offshore casinos aren’t regulated on the Island, and Atlantic Lottery describes them as illegal sites. We know of no case of a player being prosecuted for using one. The practical risk is that no provincial body can help if a site won’t pay. Our breakdown of casino licences shows which offer a real complaint route, and our explainer on provincial and offshore play sets out the trade-offs.
Red Shores: PEI’s Casinos
Red Shores Racetrack & Casino in Charlottetown combines a casino with harness racing, and Red Shores at Summerside Raceway is the second site. A renovated Charlottetown casino with expanded table games was reported to open in spring 2026. You must be 19 for the casino floor and to bet on racing.
For the bigger resorts, see our look at major Canadian casinos.
Tax and Getting Help
Recreational winnings aren’t taxed in Canada. Our explainer on whether you pay tax on winnings covers the exception.
The PEI Gambling and Gaming Support Line is 1-855-255-4255, and healthyplaypei.ca has more information. If online access is new to you, set a limit before your first deposit. Our page on support for gambling problems lists other options.
Reviewed by Liam Lambert, OCCG casino reviewer. Details come from CBC reporting and Atlantic Lottery, checked in October 2026. If something has changed, let us know.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are online casinos legal in PEI?
Atlantic Lottery is the regulated option. Offshore sites accept Islanders but aren’t regulated here.
Does PEI have an online casino now?
Yes. Atlantic Lottery’s casino games opened to Islanders in 2026, according to CBC.
Who can use Atlantic Lottery’s casino in PEI?
People with a PEI phone number or address, aged 19 or over.
What is the legal gambling age in PEI?
19.
Why did PEI take longer than other Atlantic provinces?
An earlier plan was put on hold in 2021 after opposition from MLAs.
What casinos are in PEI?
Red Shores in Charlottetown and Red Shores at Summerside Raceway.
Where can I get gambling help in PEI?
Call 1-855-255-4255, or visit healthyplaypei.ca.
Do I pay tax on winnings in PEI?
No, not as a recreational player.
