Online poker bonuses offer you extra credit to play online poker and stretch your bankroll to maximize potential winnings. But not all bonuses are created equal, and knowing how to choose yours can make a big difference. In this guide we will show you what are the best online poker bonuses and why and guide on how to make the most of them.
Best Online Poker Bonuses Canada 2025
Ready to find the best online poker bonuses? Here are some standout platforms for Canadian players:
- Wide range of betting options and casino games
- Generous bonuses and promotions for new customers
- Payment Methods: Gigadat, iDebit, Instadebit, Interac, Mastercard, Paysafecard, Visa
- Generous welcome bonuses for casino players
- Fast Processing Withdrawal Times
- Wide variety of games and payments options.
- Geneours welcome bonus for casino
1. PokerStars
- Bonus: 100% match up to $600.
- Perks: Regular freerolls and high-traffic cash tables.
- Why It’s Great: The largest player base and diverse bonus offers.
2. 888poker
- Bonus: $88 free upon signing up (no deposit required).
- Perks: Beginner-friendly promotions and easy-to-clear bonuses.
- Why It’s Great: Ideal for casual players looking for risk-free opportunities.
3. GGPoker
- Bonus: 200% deposit match up to $1,000.
- Perks: Freeroll tickets and exclusive WSOP events.
- Why It’s Great: Cutting-edge features and generous bonus structures.
What is an Online Poker Bonus?
Online poker bonuses are incentives offered by poker sites to attract and reward players. These bonuses can come as extra funds, freeroll tournament tickets, and they’re a great way to boost your bankroll.
Types of Online Poker Bonuses
Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of online poker bonuses:
1. Welcome Poker Bonuses
The most popular and lucrative offer you’ll encounter, welcome bonuses are designed to entice new players. Typically, the site will match your first deposit by a percentage (e.g., 100%), up to a specific limit.
- Example: Deposit $200, and the poker site matches it with an extra $200 in bonus funds.
- Pro Tip: Always read the release requirements—some platforms release the bonus in increments as you play.
2. No Deposit Poker Bonuses
Don’t feel like committing money upfront? No deposit bonuses are perfect for testing the waters. These are small amounts credited to your account without requiring a deposit, allowing you to play risk-free.
- Example: Get $10 free upon signing up—no strings attached.
- Pro Tip: Use no-deposit bonuses to explore the platform and find games you enjoy before depositing.
3. Reload Poker Bonuses
Already a member? Reload bonuses are here to keep you coming back. They work similarly to welcome bonuses but apply to subsequent deposits.
- Example: A 50% bonus up to $100 when you make your next deposit.
- Pro Tip: Time your deposits to align with reload bonus promotions for maximum value.
4. Rakeback Offers
Think of rakeback as a cashback deal for poker players. A percentage of the rake (fees paid to the poker site) is returned to you, which can add up significantly if you play regularly.
- Example: Get 10% to 30% of your rake returned weekly.
- Pro Tip: Rakeback is especially valuable for grinders who play high volumes of hands.
5. Freeroll Poker Entries
Freerolls are free-entry tournaments with real-money prize pools. Many poker sites include freeroll tickets as part of their bonus packages.
- Example: Gain entry to a $1,000 prize pool freeroll upon signing up.
- Pro Tip: Use freeroll tournaments to build your bankroll without risking a cent.
6. Poker Tournament Tickets
Some bonuses reward you with tickets to specific tournaments, often high-value events that can give you a shot at big winnings.
- Example: A ticket to a $50,000 guaranteed prize pool tournament.
- Pro Tip: Choose tickets for tournaments that match your skill level to make the most of these bonuses.
How to Claim an Online Poker Bonus
- Choose the Right Poker Site: Look for platforms with clear terms and a strong reputation. (Check out our Best poker sites in Canada).
- Understand the Terms: Pay attention to wagering requirements, expiration dates, and game restrictions.
- Make the Qualifying Deposit: For deposit-based bonuses, ensure you meet the minimum deposit amount to trigger the offer.
- Use Bonus Codes (If Required): Some bonuses require you to enter a code during registration or deposit.
- Start Playing: Bonuses are often released incrementally as you meet playthrough requirements.
Poker bonuses terms and conditions to watch out for
Poker bonuses in Canada come with rules you need to know before claiming them. Here’s how it works:
1. You Have to Earn the Bonus
Most poker bonuses, except for welcome bonuses, aren’t just handed out. You unlock them by playing real-money games and generating rake (the small fee the site takes from each pot or tournament). The more you play, the more of the bonus you get.
2. There’s a Time Limit
Bonuses don’t last forever. You usually have 30 to 90 days to clear them. If you don’t, whatever’s left disappears.
3. You Can’t Just Withdraw It
Even if a site gives you a deposit match bonus, you can’t cash it out right away. You have to play enough hands and meet the site’s requirements before it becomes real money.
4. Bonuses Unlock in Chunks
You don’t get the full bonus all at once. It’s released in small amounts as you hit milestones. For example, if you have a $100 bonus, the site might give it to you in $10 increments based on how much rake you generate.
5. Not All Games Count
Some sites only let you earn bonuses through cash games or tournaments. If you prefer a specific format, check the terms to make sure it counts.
6. Ontario Has Its Own Rules
If you’re in Ontario, sites must follow iGaming Ontario’s regulations. That means not all international poker sites offer the same bonuses there
How to get the most out of your Online Poker Bonuses
It’s one thing to claim a bonus—and another to make the most of it. Here’s how you can squeeze every ounce of value from your poker bonuses:
1. Play Games with Low Variance
Games like Texas Hold’em cash tables with lower stakes allow you to play more hands and clear your bonus faster without risking too much of your bankroll.
2. Focus on Rakeback
If the site offers rakeback, play enough to maximize your returns. Combine this with bonus clearing for double the value.
3. Keep Track of Bonus Deadlines
Many bonuses have expiration dates. Prioritize clearing bonuses with tighter deadlines first.
4. Use Freerolls to Build Bankroll
Freeroll tournaments are a risk-free way to grow your bankroll while meeting bonus requirements.
FAQs About Online Poker Bonuses
Not immediately. Bonuses usually require you to meet wagering requirements or release conditions before they become withdrawable.
No deposit bonuses and freeroll entries are better for beginners, because they allow you to play without financial risk.
Most of them do. But the quality and terms of their bonuses can vary significantly.
