Alberta provides clearer picture for iGaming market launch timeline

(AsiaGameHub) –   Alberta appears to have provided the first clear timeline for launching its regulated iGaming market in the Canadian province.

The province’s regulator, Alberta Gaming, Liquor & Cannabis (AGLC), has released a guidance document for the iGaming transition period, detailing requirements for commercial operators seeking licences.

The document outlines expectations for unregulated operators, stating they must submit applications, pay registration fees, and halt unregulated activities by July 13.

The AGLC stated: “Any operator or associated entity running an unregulated lottery scheme in Alberta must submit a completed application and pay all applicable registration fees to AGLC by July 13, 2026. Operators must also stop all unregulated lottery scheme activities, including taking bets, by July 13, 2026.

“AGLC may grant a maximum three-month extension to October 13, 2026, on a case-by-case basis, but only if an operator can show a compliance path for market launch that was not achievable before July 13, 2026.”

Though not a definitive launch date, this provides the industry with insight into the province’s current timeline and pace for going live.

Alberta iGaming Corporation (AiGC), which handles commercial agreements, anti-money laundering (AML), public complaints, and financial reporting, will set the official launch date.

The AGLC added that all unregulated market activity must cease by the announced go-live date, regardless of whether it falls after July 13 or October 13 this year.

Several operators, including Caesars Entertainment, have shown interest in Alberta’s regulated iGaming market. However, the AGLC noted that fewer than 10 have paid the required fees so far.

The six-month exemption provision only applies to iGaming suppliers that have paid the required fees and received written confirmation from AGLC that their application was accepted.

The AGLC stated: “Despite strong interest from over 55 operator sites, only nine have paid the required fees to date. Regulatory Services is closely monitoring advertising and overall market activity, and continued non-compliance could significantly affect future suitability determinations.”

Regarding player accounts on unregulated sites transitioning to the regulated market, the AGLC stated that all outstanding bets must be resolved or cancelled beforehand, including settling open wagers, returning account balances, and notifying players about account closure timelines and procedures.

Earlier this year, the AGLC published the Standards and Requirements for Internet Gaming, which outlines key iGaming components for the province, including licensing fees, tax rates, advertising, and player protection.

Portions of the province’s iGaming framework have been known since spring last year, when the iGaming Alberta Act was passed.