Published on: August 26, 2025, 07:00h.

Updated on: August 26, 2025, 07:00h.

• Canada’s Sweepstakes Casino Set to Close by October
• Virtual Gaming Worlds Shifts Focus to U.S. Operations

Chumba Casino has announced the cessation of its operations in Canada, as confirmed by a representative of the social gaming and sweepstakes platform to Casino.org.

VGW’s Shift Toward U.S. Focus

According to an exclusive report by Canadian Gaming Business, Virtual Gaming Worlds (VGW) will redirect its efforts primarily toward the U.S. market. VGW’s Global Poker is also exiting Canada.

“Following thorough deliberation, we’ve communicated to players about our decision to discontinue our brands offering services in Canada (Chumba Casino and Global Poker),” stated a spokesperson from VGW.

“We recognize this transition may be challenging, and our cherished Canadian players might feel let down. This decision was made after careful consideration, and we are committed to keeping our players well-informed during this change, ensuring a seamless transition.”

Company’s Strategic Rationale

“This conclusion, while difficult, is a strategic decision driven by the need to focus on our primary market. Our Canadian operations are modest in scale, as most of our players are situated in the expansive U.S. market, where we will concentrate our management resources and investments moving forward.”

Sweepstakes casinos utilize a dual currency model for gaming experiences, where players engage with Gold Coins for complimentary, non-redeemable play, and Sweeps Coins obtained through bonuses or purchases of Gold Coins, which can be exchanged for tangible rewards and cash.

The entertainment potential of free play is significant, as many players enjoy competing against friends and family or participating in tournaments.

Regulatory Challenges

As reported by Devin O’Connor on Casino.org, sweepstakes casinos have faced regulatory hurdles across the U.S., with some states arguing that the use of cash-redeemable virtual coins for games of chance constitutes real-money gambling, resulting in cease and desist letters issued to various popular sweepstakes venues, including those operated by VGW.

In Canada, sweepstakes operate without stringent regulatory controls. Canadian Gaming Business has reported that access to Chumba Casino and Global Poker will be restricted for Canadian players starting October 23.