It has been de rigueur to void Québec when offering a sweepstakes to Canadian residents due to its historically onerous registration requirements. While Québec still has strong language requirements, and Canada prohibits pure chance promotions, the Province of Québec will no longer require registration of publicity contests with the Régie des alcools, des courses et des jeux (the “Régie”).
Previously, marketers were required to register contests 30 days in advance, pay fees and duties to the Régie, and include specific disclosures in the contest rules. Some companies chose to exclude Québec residents from contests in order to avoid these specific requirements. Following the October 27, 2023 abolition of the Rules respecting publicity contests, marketers can now offer contest entry to residents of Québec without any additional registration requirements. Contest sponsors should still be aware of the broader Canadian contest laws, as well as the continuing requirement to provide a French translation of contest rules for Québec residents.
Note: Any contests filed in Québec before October 27, 2023 will still be subject to Regie’s previous requirements, including filing a winner report at the end of the contest.
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