Nova Scotia Sports Betting July 2024

Nova Scotia sports betting explained

Navigating sports betting in Nova Scotia may seem complex, but fear not, as we are here to clarify. The Atlantic Lottery Corporation is the sole licensed sports betting provider in the province, offering their Pro-Line product. Despite this, many trustworthy offshore and international sportsbooks cater to Nova Scotia bettors.

The Atlantic Lottery Corporation (ALC) was established by the Nova Scotia Gaming Corporation in collaboration with the provincial governments of New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland in Atlantic Canada.

After Bill C-218 was passed and became law in 2021, single-event betting was made legal across Canada. However, each province had the autonomy to determine how they would adopt the new legislation. Nova Scotia was the final province to embrace single-game sports betting, officially authorizing it on February 11, 2022.

Sports betting sites in Nova Scotia reviewed

If Pro-Line doesn’t meet your needs, you have the option to explore various international online sportsbooks. These platforms operate in a legal grey area in Nova Scotia, as they are not officially licensed or regulated by the provincial government, but are also not explicitly prohibited.

Fortunately, a lot of these sportsbooks are well-known for their outstanding reputations, as they are licensed in various jurisdictions across the globe. Therefore, you can have confidence that they are legitimate and will provide you with fair treatment.

Our guide will assist you in navigating the sports betting market in Nova Scotia by highlighting legal options and online sportsbooks with the most promising market entry potential if the ALC decides to issue licenses.

1. bet365

Bet365, a prominent British gambling company with over two decades of experience, has successfully entered the North American market, particularly in Ontario. Reports from Morgan Stanley analysts show that in April 2020, bet365 accounted for 27% of app downloads in the region.

Bet365 gained recognition for its Bet Builder feature, which transformed into the widely popular same-game parlay with inspiration from FanDuel’s innovation in North America.

Furthermore, bet365 goes above and beyond with its innovation and features by providing access to thousands of live streams through its app. Additionally, the platform offers a vast array of bets and bet builders, such as the Ice Hockey Bet Builder. This unique feature enables users to select up to 12 options and craft a personalized bet.

To learn more about the operator, be sure to check out our comprehensive bet365 review.

2. Sports Interaction ⚾

Last year, the betting industry giant Entain purchased Sports Interaction from Avid Gaming for $300 million (CAD). Avid Gaming exclusively leases Sports Interaction to the Mohawks of Kahnawà:ke, who run the book through their Mohawk Online company.

Sports Interaction is completely legal in Ontario, thanks to the approval of both the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario and iGaming Ontario. In other parts of Canada, such as Nova Scotia, the brand operates in the gray market with a license from the Kahnawake Gaming Commission. Despite this, Sports Interaction remains one of the top sportsbooks in Nova Scotia, so there is no need to be concerned about its legal status.

If the province ever decides to regulate third-party betting sites, Sports Interaction could easily become one of the top legal NS sportsbooks. However, even without regulation, there are still many reasons to explore what Sports Interaction has to offer. The platform provides excellent lines on popular sports like the NFL and NHL, along with exciting features such as Minute Madness, where users can predict which minute of a soccer game will see a goal. Additionally, Sports Interaction offers Piñata Picks, a unique prop bet that randomly assigns a team or selection with favorable pricing.

Check out our comprehensive Sports Interaction review for a complete breakdown.

3. William Hill ⚽

William Hill is a popular sports betting site in Nova Scotia that currently operates in a legal grey area, but shows promise for potential future regulation by the province. As one of the largest betting companies globally, it has a lot to offer to bettors in Nova Scotia. The site features a classic layout with easy-to-use colors, a wide variety of betting options including parlays, props, teasers, moneylines, and point spreads, as well as competitive pricing.

Furthermore, the Enhanced Odds, Epic Odds, and DoubleYourOdds daily boosts offered by the platform provide extra benefits for bettors, particularly as they are applicable to a variety of popular markets.

Our William Hill review provides additional details about the sportsbook.

4. LeoVegas

LeoVegas, a licensed and regulated sports betting platform in Ontario, may seek a license in Nova Scotia in the future. In the meantime, bettors on Canada’s East Coast can trust LeoVegas as a reliable option for wagering.

LeoVegas Underscoreg is known as one of the top sports betting sites in Canada due to its competitive odds on a wide range of sports and markets, including popular leagues like NHL, NBA, NFL, and MLB, as well as events like UFC and Formula 1 races.

LeoVegas provides a wide range of live betting options, including predicting the next corner kick in a soccer match or the next point scorer in an NBA game. With in-play statistics and live streaming, the live betting experience is even more thrilling as you can take advantage of rapidly changing odds.

To learn more about the operator, check out our LeoVegas review. You can also explore the sign-up offers and bonuses available in our LeoVegas sports promo code section.

5. 888sport

888sport is a well-known brand in Canada, with a prominent office in Ontario and origins in Europe. It is highly probable that this company could obtain an official NS sports betting license if they were to become available.

Meanwhile, NS bettors can explore its wide range of offerings, which includes over 30 sports such as surfing, Gaelic sports like hurling and rounders. The brand’s app is filled with features like the Bet Feed, allowing users to view which teams other bettors are supporting, the most popular bets in the last 24 hours, and additional information.

The Odds Boost section provides a summary of all markets, including their increased odds compared to the original odds. A brief look shows that 888sport frequently boosts odds by 25%–30%.

Take a look at our comprehensive review of 888sport to learn more about the platform, and don’t forget to visit the 888sport promo code page to find out how to redeem the welcome offer.

6. Bet99

Bet99 has been in the Canadian sports betting scene since 2019, but they have significantly increased their presence in the last year by launching mobile apps for iOS and Android and partnering with UFC Hall of Famer Georges St-Pierre as their celebrity spokesperson.

Bet99 is a legally authorized and licensed online betting platform in Canada, approved by the AGCO in Ontario and the Kahnawake Gaming Commission in all other provinces and territories, including Nova Scotia. It provides competitive odds and an extensive selection of betting options for a diverse range of sporting events, catering to both mainstream and niche markets.

For further information, visit our comprehensive Bet99 review or check out the Bet99 promo code page to find out about the new player welcome bonus in detail.

7. BetVictor

For more than seventy years, BetVictor has been a reputable brick-and-mortar sportsbook in the U.K. This established history played a key role in BetVictor’s successful expansion into Canada as an online sportsbook.

BetVictor holds an iGaming license from Ontario, as well as licenses from regulatory bodies in Great Britain, Ireland, and Gibraltar. This places the company in a legal “grey market” in all Canadian provinces outside of Ontario. Although it is not regulated by other provinces, BetVictor is still permitted to serve customers in Canada.

Although BetVictor might need to improve its competitive odds, its mobile app, particularly the live betting section, is undeniably impressive.

Make sure to check out our comprehensive BetVictor review for more information. If you’re interested in claiming the BetVictor promo code welcome bonus, we’ve got you covered as well.

Responsible Gaming: Responsiblegambling.org

8. Betway

Betway is an excellent choice for bettors in Nova Scotia, offering a wide range of betting options across 30+ sports, convenient banking methods, and competitive odds that cater to Canadian customers’ needs.

New customers are eligible for a 100% first deposit match welcome bonus, with a maximum value of $300. The bonus funds require a 10x playthrough, and no Betway promo code is necessary to claim this offer.

Visit our comprehensive Betway review to discover why it is considered one of the top online sportsbooks in Canada.

Nova Scotia sports betting at a glance

Since Nova Scotia introduced single-game sports betting through the ALC’s Pro-Line brand in early 2022, there have not been any new developments. Bettors in the Maritime area are eagerly awaiting the possibility of the ALC licensing top sportsbooks in Canada, such as DraftKings and FanDuel, following Ontario’s lead.

Nova Scotians are avid online sports bettors, preferring to use offshore and international platforms. The Canadian Gaming Association, as reported by the National Post, estimated that Canadians wager a total of $150 million on the Super Bowl, which is fifty times more than what is bet on legal sports lotteries.

Nova Scotia Pro-Line

• Pro-Line is the only service available.

• Single-event betting is permitted.

• Various wagering formats are supported.

• You can make your picks online.

• The market value stands at $26 million.

Nova Scotia legal sportsbooks

NS sports betting promos and bonuses

Most bettors in Nova Scotia are limited to using the province’s Pro-Line for betting, which is managed by ALC. However, this sportsbook does not offer any welcome bonuses, unlike offshore alternatives, making it a less appealing choice for many.

Many international sportsbooks provide a sign-up bonus, usually in the form of a deposit match or bonus bet credits. Fortunately, there are some Nova Scotia welcome offers that are considered top sportsbook promotions in Canada.

Different bonuses come with varying value and conditions, hence it is important to carefully read and comprehend the terms and conditions of any welcome offer before claiming it. Some offers may require a minimum deposit, specific qualifying odds, or playthrough requirements in order to be eligible.

How we rate and review NS sports betting sites

We base our review process on firsthand experience. We have tested these NS sportsbooks by placing bets ourselves to provide an accurate representation of the average bettor’s experience.

Below is an overview of the complete review process and the key aspects we deemed significant.

Main sportsbook features

We are always on the lookout for qualities that set a high standard for sports bettors. The following characteristics are sure to grab our attention:

Proprietary mobile applications

• Favorable odds across the markets

• A multitude of betting opportunities

• A multitude of betting opportunities

• In-play or live betting

• Early cash-out options

• Free live-streaming

User-friendly design

We evaluate the usability of these platforms on desktops, mobile devices, and iOS or Android apps. Our assessment includes an analysis of the features, highlighting both the strengths and weaknesses of each platform.

We prioritize intuitive navigation, responsive design, and clutter-free interfaces in our selection of apps and websites. Only platforms that provide exceptional user experiences are included in our list.

Bonuses and promotions

While an enticing welcome bonus may catch the eye, our review of NS sportsbook goes beyond just the initial perks. We carefully analyze the fairness of all terms and conditions, such as qualifying odds, minimum deposits, and wagering requirements. Additionally, we assess the continuous incentives and promotional rewards offered to loyal customers.

Payment methods

In the world of betting, the timeliness of receiving your winnings is paramount. Nobody wants to wait an extended period to collect a significant payout. Our analytical strategy prioritizes the speed of payouts, with a focus on identifying the quickest payout sportsbooks. It’s worth noting that some of the top options are currently unavailable in Nova Scotia.

Furthermore, we offer a wide range of options for deposits and withdrawals, such as credit cards, Instadebit, Interac, and other commonly used Canadian financial methods.

Reliability and data protection

Ensuring the platform’s integrity is crucial when investing your money. We advise using sportsbooks only after confirming their licensing with relevant regulatory authorities, even if they are located outside of Nova Scotia.

Furthermore, we assure you that the website utilizes strict security measures to safeguard your personal information, such as two-factor authentication, biometric logins, and other safety features.

Other categories

In evaluating a sportsbook, we also consider the following factors:

• Ease of the sign-up process

• Efficiency of the verification procedure

• Betting thresholds

• Localization features

• Loyalty or VIP programs

Once we have thoroughly researched each sportsbook, we evaluate and rank them based on their top features.

How to start betting on sports in Nova Scotia

Whether you prefer to wait for official regulatory approval or begin using an offshore sportsbook immediately, we are here to assist you every step of the way. Simply follow our detailed guide to start placing sports bets today.

1. Choose a sportsbook

To start off, select an NS sportsbook from our recommended list. Take a look at our reviews to understand their pros and cons and see if they align with your preferred playing style. If you enjoy exploring different markets and odds boosts, William Hill could be a suitable option for you. Alternatively, you may be drawn to a specific welcome bonus offered by another sportsbook.

2. Register online

Find the “Register,” “Sign Up,” or “Join” button at the top right corner of the website. Click or tap on it to start the registration process. Fill out the registration form with your full legal name, current address, date of birth, active mobile number, and valid email address.

iGaming Ontario has recently implemented new regulations for sportsbooks, requiring users to disclose their citizenship and occupation, confirm their eligibility to play, ensure they are not representing another individual, and verify they are not a Politically Exposed Person (PEP) or Head of an International Organization (HIO). These requirements are not currently in place in Nova Scotia, but they may be considered in the future.

3. Make a deposit

In order to deposit and place bets, you need to verify your Nova Scotia account. This may require submitting personal identification or proof of address if the automatic verification is unsuccessful. Once your account is successfully activated, you will have complete access to the Nova Scotia online sportsbook and can begin depositing funds.

Navigate to the “Deposit” option in the “Cashier” or “Banking” section of your account. Once there, you will see a list of available methods for depositing funds. Choose the payment option that suits you best, select any available welcome bonus, and enter the amount of money you wish to deposit.

To activate the bonus, you might require a Nova Scotia bonus code. Be sure to refer to the bonus table at the top of this page for valid and precise promo codes.

4. Place your first wager

Explore the betting lobby to view various sports and markets. If you cannot find what you want right away, utilize the search bar. After making your selections, simply click on the betting odds provided for that specific market. Your choices will then be automatically added to the bet card or bet slip.

You can choose between single bets or multi-leg parlays based on the number of selections. If the odds change before you finalize your bet, you will receive a prompt to accept the new odds. Click the “Place Bet” button to confirm your wager.

5. Claim your bonus

Before claiming a welcome bonus, ensure you fully comprehend the terms and conditions. Additional requirements such as a minimum deposit, odds restrictions, or other conditions may need to be met.

Make sure to understand how to qualify for your bonus when claiming it. Bonus bets usually have a short expiration period of one to two weeks, while cashback is earned as a percentage of your future bets.

6. Withdraw your payout

If you win the bet, your account will be instantly credited with the funds, which will include both the stake and profit. To withdraw your winnings, go to the “Withdraw” section of the sportsbook and choose your preferred banking method. Enter the amount you wish to withdraw and confirm the transaction. It usually takes between 24 and 72 hours for the funds to appear in your account.

Quick facts: Nova Scotia sports betting

The Atlantic Lottery Corporation (ALC) is a collaboration between the governments of Nova Scotia and three nearby provinces: New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Prince Edward Island.

Nova Scotia sports teams to bet on

The largest indoor arena in Atlantic Canada, Scotiabank Centre, located in Nova Scotia, is home to the Halifax Mooseheads. Although hockey remains the most popular sport in the province, soccer is rapidly growing in popularity, thanks to the impressive performances of HFX Wanderers FC in the Canadian Premier League (CPL).

There are no major professional teams in the Maritimes, but many Nova Scotia bettors support the Toronto Blue Jays and Toronto Raptors, as they are Canada’s only franchises in the MLB and NBA. Teams from Montreal, such as the Canadiens and Alouettes, are also popular among fans.

Delving into the world of sports teams to wager on in Nova Scotia can offer a deeper understanding of the wide-ranging realm of sports betting, spanning across a multitude of sports and genres. Residents of Nova Scotia can further their exploration by researching leading betting platforms that specialize in specific sports and a variety of other betting categories.

NS sports betting key developments and updates

The Nova Scotia sports betting industry is currently focused on the implementation of Bill C-218. While there are multiple options available to bettors through Pro-Line and offshore sportsbooks, there is not as much urgency for full-scale regulation compared to Ontario.

On June 21, 2022, the ALC introduced an online casino in Nova Scotia, expanding its services from just New Brunswick.

On February 11, 2022, Nova Scotia finally approves single-game betting after the passing of Bill C-218, becoming the last Canadian province to do so.

On June 29, 2021, Bill C-218 was granted royal assent in Canada, formally permitting single-game wagering across the country. The responsibility now lies with provincial governments to determine the regulations for sports betting within their respective jurisdictions.

On February 25, 2020, Saskatchewan MP Kevin Waugh introduced Bill C-218 as a private member’s bill in an effort to legalize single-game sports betting in Canada, which is currently prohibited by the Criminal Code of Canada.

NS single-game sports betting

Bill C-218, introduced by Conservative MP Kevin Waugh in 2020, legalized single-game sports wagering in Canada and allowed provinces to independently oversee it. The bill, supported by Senator David Wells, was overwhelmingly voted into law on Feb. 17, 2021.

In Nova Scotia, single-game sports betting was introduced through the Pro-Line product after many other provinces had already implemented it. Prior to the change, Pro-Line only offered parlay bets with a minimum of three legs. Now, individuals can place single-event bets with a minimum stake of $2 on moneylines, spreads, and totals.

Legal sports betting and regulations in NS

In Nova Scotia, sports betting is legal and regulated by the Nova Scotia Gaming Corporation (NSGC) as mandated by the Gaming Control Act. The NSGC also collaborates with the Atlantic Lottery Corporation, New Brunswick Lotteries and Gaming Corporation, Prince Edward Island Lotteries Commission, and the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador.

The Atlantic Lottery Corporation (ALC) is the sole authorized sports betting provider in Nova Scotia, offering its Pro-Line product that now includes both single-game betting (since 2022) and parlay options. In addition to Pro-Line, numerous offshore and international sportsbooks cater to customers from Nova Scotia, providing bettors with a wider range of choices.

NS online and mobile sportsbooks

You can place online bets in Nova Scotia through Pro-Line by having an ALC account. After selecting your picks and wager format, choose the amount you want to bet, review your selections, and click “Confirm” to finalize the transaction. You can also create a bet slip online and receive a QR Code to present at an Atlantic Lottery retailer for approval of your wager.

Many offshore sportsbooks provide trustworthy websites and mobile apps for easy access. Simply download these apps onto your smartphone or tablet to enjoy convenient betting on the move.

Who can bet on sports in NS?

Let’s review the pertinent rules and regulations concerning sports betting in Nova Scotia.

Legal age

In Nova Scotia, individuals must be 19 years of age or older to place bets on sports. Registration for betting accounts is strictly prohibited for anyone under this age. Additionally, individuals affiliated with professional sports teams or the Atlantic Lottery Corporation are not permitted to participate in betting activities.

Mobile betting

You can place single-game bets with Pro-Line Stadium through mobile betting in Nova Scotia. The ALC will verify your location using geolocation technology when betting on the website or app.

Retail sportsbooks

Despite the presence of two casinos in the province, neither the Halifax nor Sydney locations have a retail sportsbook available. However, in-person wagering is permitted at ALC-licensed retailers, such as Pro-Line kiosks found at convenience stores.

Taxable winnings

In Canada, winnings from gambling, including those from Nova Scotia sports betting sites, are not subject to taxes. The Canada Revenue Agency does not classify lottery or gambling winnings as taxable income, allowing you to keep all of your winnings.

What you can and can’t bet on in NS

Surprisingly, Nova Scotia does not have the same betting restrictions as the United States, allowing for bets on politics and entertainment events. These unique wagers can be found under the “Novelty Bets” tab.

Please be aware that Pro-Line and other NS sportsbooks have the right to void any bets that were placed on events with known outcomes before the sales cut-off time. In such cases, your stake will be returned in full. This occurrence is rare and typically attributed to a software malfunction.

Politics

In Nova Scotia, political betting is permitted on offshore sportsbooks and Pro-Line, but only for non-Canadian political markets. This means you can wager on the outcome of the 2024 U.S. presidential election, but not on who will succeed Justin Trudeau as the next Canadian Prime Minister.

Entertainment award ceremonies

In Nova Scotia, it is legal to place bets on a movie winning Best Picture at the Oscars or on your favorite musical artist winning a Grammy.

esports

Both Pro-Line and offshore online sportsbooks in Nova Scotia offer betting on esports. Due to its niche market status, you may need to search around to find a sportsbook that provides the specific market you are interested in.

Responsible sports betting in Nova Scotia

The Nova Scotia Gaming Corporation (NSGC) is dedicated to reducing the negative impacts of gambling. As part of the PlayWise program, a voluntary self-exclusion list can be found on ALC.ca to assist individuals who may be at risk of experiencing gambling-related harm.

NSGC also offers a valuable resource called Your Best Bet, where you can gain insights into how gambling operates and receive helpful tips on staying within your budget. Properly managing your bankroll and understanding odds are essential components of responsible gaming.

List of NS resources

NSGC, or the Nova Scotia Gaming Corporation

Your Best Bet

PlayWise

Gambling helpline for Nova Scotia: Call 1-888-347-8888.

Sports betting across Canada

Stay informed about sports betting developments in Nova Scotia, but also take the time to explore the various betting opportunities available on top Canadian sites throughout the country. Stay updated on trends shaping the sports betting landscape in other provinces as well.

Sports betting in other regions

Are you prepared to make your wagers? Explore our selection of the top sports betting platforms in the US, Canada, Ontario, and the U.K. for the most favorable odds and bonuses available.

US:

Best sportsbooks

Best sports betting sites

Best sports betting apps

UK:

Best sportsbooks UK