Online Poker in Yukon: Gambling Laws & Legality
Yukon doesn’t directly regulate traditional online poker, yet anyone 19 and older can play freely. Sweepstakes poker is explicitly allowed. This guide clarifies the laws so you know exactly where you stand.
Legality of Online Poker in Yukon
Yukon’s legislation mandates mandatory licensing for specific types of games, including Raffles, 50/50 draws, Casino games, Bingo, and chase-the-ace style lotteries. Poker is not regulated by provincial law and is available to individuals who are at least 19 years old. The regulator separately notes that sweepstakes are not considered “gaming,” so sweepstakes-format poker is legal.
| Status | Online Poker Is Not Regulated |
| Start Date | N/A |
| Legal Poker Rooms | None |
| Shared Liquidity | N/A |
| Legal Sweepstakes Poker | Stake.com, GlobalPoker, clubWPT |
| Minimum Age | 19+ |
| Regulator | Yukon Lottery Commission (YLC) |
| Tax | No |
The Best Yukon Online Poker Sites
For online poker enthusiasts in Yukon, knowing where to land is half the battle. Below, we’ll go through a handful of well-regarded rooms that have each earned their stripes in different ways. They’re not carbon copies of each other, so it’s worth taking a moment to see which one lines up best with what you’re after—whether it’s a massive tournament lineup, a gentle learning curve, or a shot at bigger live events. Let’s get into it.
GGPoker
Even from Yukon’s northern corner, GGPoker feels like the center of the poker universe. It’s not just another brand name—this place delivers massive prize pools, lively tournament schedules, and formats you simply won’t find elsewhere. The familiar face of Daniel Negreanu might pop up, but what really hooks you is the range of stakes and inventive options like Flip&Go. Add in a slick mobile app and a welcome bonus that’s actually worth your time, and you’ve got a room that constantly pushes the boundaries. GGPoker doesn’t just join the conversation—it often starts it.
PokerStars
PokerStars is the timeless heavyweight that never lost its step. They’ve been around since the early days and still hold their own against any newcomer. For Yukon players, this means a trust factor that’s hard to match. You’ll find every poker variant under the sun—from classics you grew up on to niche formats you won’t stumble upon anywhere else. By Sunday, the place swells with players from all corners, so you’re never stuck waiting for a game. On the security front, PokerStars keeps player balances separate from their own funds, so you can rest easy knowing your money stays yours. In a world that’s constantly shifting, PokerStars remains a rock.
888Poker
If you’re dipping your toes into the online poker waters from Yukon, 888Poker might be the easiest place to start. It’s welcoming, it’s simple, and it doesn’t bury you under complicated bells and whistles. Instead, it offers low-stakes games, a crowd that’s forgiving to newcomers, and a no-deposit bonus that lets you try before you buy. The software is straightforward, the community vibes are relaxed, and you’re not racing to beat world-class pros at every table. Think of 888Poker as a place where you ease into the game like you’re settling in for a friendly round at your own kitchen table. No glaring spotlights, no intimidating high-rollers—just the freedom to learn the ropes at low stakes, feel out the competition, and gather the nerve to step up when you’re ready. The no-deposit bonus doesn’t just pad your wallet—it gives you a real chance to see if the place fits your style. It’s like trading a fancy steakhouse for a neighborhood BBQ spot: relaxed, friendly, and perfect for getting your bearings.
WPTGlobal
WPTGlobal isn’t just another online destination—it’s where you can actually set your sights beyond the browser window. Sure, there are cash games and daily tournaments, but the real lure is the possibility of winning your way into a genuine World Poker Tour event. Imagine sitting at home in Yukon one day, and the next, finding yourself in a live tournament setting, surrounded by players who’ve long since mastered their craft. Here, your online session can become a stepping stone to facing off against seasoned pros under the lights, far from the quiet comfort of your own desk.
Safety First
When it comes to playing on offshore poker platforms, it pays to keep a steady head. These sites can open the door to a wider selection of games and promotions, but let’s not pretend they’re all squeaky clean. Before you put your money on the line, do some homework: read up on the platform’s track record, ask around in online forums, and see what real players have to say about the withdrawal process or response times from support. Make sure the site uses proper encryption, and consider using two-factor authentication if they offer it. Also, have a personal cutoff point—know your own limits and treat offshore play as a bit of an adventure, not a place to chase losses. Being honest with yourself is often the best safeguard you’ve got.
Sweepstakes Poker in Yukon
Sweepstakes platforms operate legally in Yukon. You can play poker, place bets on fantasy sports, and even participate in a social casino where the game is played with virtual chips. Sweepstakes poker operators allow you to play for free with Gold Coins (GC) and exchange them for real prizes. As a bonus, you can also receive special Sweeps Coins (SC), which can also be used for play and exchanged for prizes.
Stake.com
If you’re curious about sweepstakes poker in Yukon, Stake.com is the name that keeps coming up. Known first for its sports betting and social casino games, it added poker to the lineup not too long ago. The tables tend to draw an international crowd, with everyone tossed together except U.S. players (who go to Stake.us) and Ontarians (who get Stake.ca). You’ll see a decent range of stakes—nothing too wild, but enough variety to keep both casual players and more serious grinders interested. It’s not the flashiest place to chase huge tournament series, but if you’re into straightforward games and the freedom to play without risking real money, Stake.com does the job nicely. Over time, they’ve tweaked the rake and stirred up some chatter among the regulars, but that’s all part of the evolving ecosystem you’re stepping into.
GlobalPoker
GlobalPoker leans harder into the tournament scene than some of its sweepstakes peers, regularly rolling out special events and promotions. Though it’s American in origin, Yukoners can jump in and face off against a player base that includes everyday grinders, casual fans, and a sprinkling of notable names. You might see a promo tied to a well-known athlete or celebrity—GlobalPoker likes adding a bit of showbiz flair to the mix. The cash game tables might not be as deep as what you’d find at some other platforms, but if you’ve got a taste for well-structured tournaments and a community that loves them, GlobalPoker is worth a seat.
clubWPT
clubWPT takes a different route, treating poker more like a membership club than a straight-up gambling platform. You pay a subscription fee, and in return you get access to a range of tournament action, some of which can award entries to big-name World Poker Tour events. This isn’t the place to grind 24/7 cash tables or chase massive prize pools—you’re here for the WPT connection and the idea that your online clicks might lead to a real-life showdown under the spotlights. For Yukon players dreaming of mixing it up at a live WPT stop without having to jet off to faraway locales, clubWPT offers a slow-and-steady path into that world. It’s part social hub, part stepping stone, and entirely different from the standard sweepstakes fare.
How to Play Online Poker
If you want to start playing online poker, the first step is choosing the right room for you. Since Yukon does not restrict access to offshore-licensed poker rooms, you can select from a large number of international brands.
If you’re new to poker, it’s best to choose large, reputable rooms where you won’t have any issues with service, including deposit and withdrawal methods, as well as customer support in a language you understand. The next selection criterion will be the poker variants you need:
- If you play rare types of poker like Razz, Seven Card Stud, or Courchevel poker, you might find a suitable game only on PokerStars, so you need look no further.
- If you want higher-stakes play or are looking for more action-packed poker variants like Flip&Go, then you should pay attention to GGPoker.
- If you want to try something new, maybe qualify for a WPT tournament through affordable satellites, then test your skills at WPT Global.
- If you want to start playing with no-deposit bonuses and freerolls, then 888Poker is a suitable choice. You can get a $20 no-deposit bonus and then play in free tournaments from PokerListings.
Banking Options
The most popular payment methods for depositing and withdrawing winnings are Visa and MasterCard cards, as well as the electronic payment systems MuchBetter and Instadebit. In poker rooms registered in offshore zones, as well as in sweepstakes products, cryptocurrencies are gaining popularity. Typically, payments are made in stablecoins such as USDT or USDC, using the Ethereum (ERC20) and Tron (TRC20) blockchains. Less popular payment methods include Wire Bank Transfers, PayPal, and Google Pay.
Online Poker Cash Games
GGPoker offers the greatest number of playing tables and also provides play at the highest limits. You can find unique game formats, the possibility of hitting jackpots, as well as a convenient modern interface for cash games.
PokerStars can offer a wide variety of poker variants, many of which you can no longer find in other rooms. Cash games on PokerStars are suitable for both beginners and mid-stakes players. The only audience for which this room is poorly suited is the highest-stakes players.
888Poker is a good choice for beginners. There are enough low-limit tables, attractive bonuses, and a relatively soft field.
The fourth room could be called WPT Global, which specializes more in tournaments but can offer enough NLH and PLO cash games at low and medium limits.
Online Poker Tournament Series
Tournament players may be drawn to PokerStars thanks to the WCOOP and SCOOP series. This same room hosts the offline North American Poker Tour (NAPT), aimed at Canadian players. The room’s regular tournament schedule is geared toward low- and medium-stakes players. There are plenty of tournaments up to $100, and large fields gather for inexpensive tournaments with guarantees.
GGPoker holds the most expensive tournaments and has already become a home for high-stakes tournament players. Unlike all its competitors, you can fight for a WSOP Online gold bracelet here, because the parent company, NSUS, owns not only the GGPoker brand but also the WSOP.
888Poker runs its own series aimed at beginners and medium-stakes players. Assessing its regular schedule, one might say that this room is more suited to tournament players choosing buy-ins up to $50.
WPT Global represents one of the leading live poker series—the World Poker Tour. Here you can qualify for a live event, some of which take place in Canada.
Gambling Tax in Yukon
Canadian legislation (specifically paragraph 40(2)(f)(ii) of the Income Tax Act) does not impose taxation on gambling winnings. A tax can be imposed by provincial legislation for professional players who systematically derive winnings from poker or casino games. For this, gambling must be the primary source of income, the winnings systematic and spread out over time, and the activity leading to the winnings organized. In this case, most provinces set a tax from 5.06% (B.C.) to 25.75% (Quebec), determined by the total winnings for the reporting period.
For Yukon residents, there’s excellent news—the province has not established a tax even for professional players.
Problem Gambling
If you notice signs of problem gambling in yourself, or you are a family member of someone experiencing such issues, contact the help center organized by the Western Canada Lottery Corporation (WCLC). You can call toll-free at 1-(844) 533-3030 during working hours (2:00PM-10:00PM) or (867) 668-6429 during (9:00AM-4:30PM). These are the numbers for the Canadian Mental Health Association of Yukon (CMHAY). They will provide you with a free consultation, help you determine if you need assistance, and guide you on how to proceed. You can block your accounts with legal gambling operators, learn when it’s time to stop, and discover which tools can help you. Do not hesitate to call if you suspect a problem in yourself or your loved ones.
Live Poker in Yukon
Yukon cannot boast casinos like British Columbia or Alberta. The only place where you can find a live game is Diamond Tooth Gerties Casino, located at 1001 Fourth Avenue, Dawson City, YT. At the end of 2024, the casino closed for renovations and is scheduled to reopen in January 2025. We advise checking the casino’s status on the official website or by calling toll-free 1-867-465-3006. At this casino, you can find live NLH games at $1/$2, NL Omaha $1/2, and $5/$10 Limit Dealer’s Choice. Small tournaments may be held on weekends. If you want to reserve a table for play, send a text message to (867) 992-0600. Note that no calls are accepted at this number, and text messages are processed after 1pm.
Famous Players from Yukon
A total of 66 players from Yukon have made their mark at a professional level in major tournaments. The most successful among them is Bradley Booth from Whitehorse. Over his career, he has won $795,429 in prizes, and his biggest success was placing 3rd in the 2006 WPT Mandalay Bay Poker Championship, where he earned $319,180. It’s worth noting that Brad Booth is better known not for his significant tournament successes, but for his cash game appearances on poker shows, including High Stakes Poker. For example, in episode E13S3 of this show, Brad mentions that he has been playing poker every day for 14 years—first in Vancouver, then in Calgary, and later in Yukon. In the “International Week” episode of Poker After Dark, he took second place, losing to Finland’s Patrik Antonius. In November 2009, ‘Yukon Brad’ ended his collaboration with Full Tilt Poker and joined the GR88 project, where he held several positions. On July 13, 2020, Brad went camping in Nevada (USA), taking supplies for several days. A week later, his friend reported him missing. On September 16, 2020, Brad’s family published a statement that they had confirmation he was alive and had decided to take time for himself. In 2024, a post appeared on Reddit claiming that Booth had played poker with one of the site’s users and was doing well.
FAQ
Is online poker regulated by Yukon’s provincial laws?
No. Yukon does not directly regulate standard online poker. While it sets licensing rules for activities like raffles and lotteries, poker remains in a less-defined area, allowing anyone 19+ to choose from a broad range of offshore poker sites. This hands-off approach means you can play without local restrictions, though you should always check an operator’s reputation and terms.
Do I have to pay taxes on my online poker winnings in Yukon?
For most players, no. Canada generally does not tax casual gambling wins, and Yukon does not impose additional taxes. If you were a professional player whose primary income comes from poker, other provinces might consider taxing those earnings, but Yukon does not. For recreational players, all your poker profits remain yours to keep.
Are sweepstakes poker platforms legal in Yukon?
Yes. Yukon’s regulator explicitly states that sweepstakes do not count as “gaming,” which places sweepstakes poker on solid legal ground. On these platforms, you can play with virtual currencies (Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins) and still redeem winnings for real prizes. This setup offers players a safe, clearly legal alternative to traditional online poker sites.
What is the minimum legal age to play online poker in Yukon?
You must be at least 19 years old. Yukon’s age requirement aligns with the general gambling age in the territory. Once you hit 19, you’re free to join offshore poker rooms or enjoy sweepstakes platforms without any additional local hurdles.
How can I get help if I have a gambling problem?
If you suspect you have a gambling issue, the Western Canada Lottery Corporation (WCLC) and the Canadian Mental Health Association of Yukon offer confidential, free support. By calling their helplines, you can discuss your situation, learn about self-exclusion tools to block access to gambling sites, and gain access to resources and strategies for regaining control. If you feel you’re losing your footing, it’s always better to seek help early.
Which online poker sites are best for beginners?
888Poker stands out for newcomers, offering low-stakes games, beginner-friendly fields, and no-deposit bonuses. PokerStars and GGPoker also welcome a wide range of players, providing a variety of game types and stakes. For players interested in qualifying for live tournaments like the WPT, WPT Global is an option worth exploring.
Are offshore poker sites accessible from Yukon?
Yes. Yukon does not block or restrict offshore poker platforms, so you can sign up and play on many international sites. This open approach gives you access to a wider selection of games, payment methods, and tournaments, though it’s wise to choose reputable sites with reliable customer support and secure transactions.
Do any sites offer rare poker variants like Razz or Seven Card Stud?
PokerStars is known for its extensive range of poker variants. If you’re craving games outside the usual Texas Hold’em or Omaha, this is likely your go-to destination. Whether it’s Razz, Seven Card Stud, or even more obscure formats, PokerStars usually has a table running.
What payment methods can I use in Yukon?
Visa, MasterCard, MuchBetter, and Instadebit are popular for depositing and withdrawing funds. Offshore rooms may also accept cryptocurrencies like USDT or USDC for faster, discreet transactions. Some players still use wire transfers, PayPal, or Google Pay, though these are less common than the primary methods.
Can I play high-stakes online poker in Yukon?
Yes. GGPoker is a notable option for higher-limit action, offering unique formats, jackpot tables, and a modern interface. PokerStars also caters to mid-stakes players, though its highest-limit options are more limited than GGPoker’s. If you’re serious about big action, it’s worth exploring rooms known for their high-stakes environments.