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Alberta will officially launch its regulated online gambling market — including sports betting and iGaming — on July 13, 2026. This change makes Alberta the second Canadian province, after Ontario, to open its online gambling sector to private operators.
The launch date was confirmed in a letter sent to industry stakeholders from the office of Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction Minister Dale Nally. The letter, first reported by Gaming News Canada, notes that many operators “need additional time to prepare” for the operational, technical, and compliance requirements tied to the new framework.
Key regulatory amendments were adopted on January 13, updating Alberta’s Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Regulation. These changes clarify licensing rules, advertising standards, and social responsibility obligations for operators entering the market.
At the same time, the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission (AGLC) opened registration for operators and suppliers, establishing the formal entry process.
The licensing pathway includes two steps:
Temporary transition measures have also been introduced to help operators shift from the gray market into the regulated system. These measures expire on July 13.
According to the stakeholder letter, operators that have completed registration and paid their fees have already begun assessing technical requirements, including integration with Alberta’s centralized self‑exclusion system.
Final operating agreements and AiGC policies are expected by April 15.
Alberta has not yet released a list of approved licensees, but industry expectations point to a strong lineup of major brands preparing to enter the province.
Likely participants include:
International and emerging operators are also expected to join, such as:
Alberta’s framework closely mirrors Ontario’s open‑market model. Under the structure, the AGLC will act as the regulator, while the AiGC will serve as the conduct‑and‑manage entity — similar to iGaming Ontario’s role.
Ontario’s iGaming market has grown significantly since its launch in 2022. The province recorded its strongest year in 2025, generating C$4.04 billion in annual revenue — a 34% year‑over‑year increase. Monthly handle has grown nearly tenfold since the market opened.
Alberta aims to replicate this success while introducing its own distinctions. For example, Alberta will not allow election betting, and it will launch a centralized self‑exclusion program before the market opens. Ontario still does not have a province‑wide self‑exclusion system in place.
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