Q&A
What has changed in Alberta today?
Alberta has officially opened iGaming registration following amendments to the Gaming Liquor and Cannabis Regulation.
Who can apply now?
AGLC is now accepting registration applications from iGaming operators and gaming services providers.
When will the Alberta iGaming market launch?
The regulated market is expected to launch later in 2026 with timing to be confirmed.
Is this similar to Ontario’s model?
Yes Alberta follows a dual body structure similar to Ontario; however, there are several key differences which are described below.
Can operators begin marketing now?
After acceptance into the registration process and payment of the required fees, operators may advertise and register prospective customers, subject to applicable advertising rules. Acceptance of deposits and wagers will be prohibited until the operator’s registration is approved and the market has launched.
Discussion
The wait is over. As of today, January 13, 2026, the pathway to a regulated iGaming market in Alberta is officially open.
Concurrent with the coming-in-to-force of amendments to the Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Regulation, the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission (AGLC) is now accepting registration applications from interested operators and gaming services providers, with the full market launch anticipated later in 2026. Similar to the experience in Ontario, this is a first-come, first-served registration regime, so the time to act is now.
Segev LLP has been closely monitoring the legislative framework established by Bill 48 (the iGaming Alberta Act) and the newly formed Alberta iGaming Corporation (AiGC). Here is what prospective applicants need to know to secure their place in Canada’s newest regulated iGaming market.
The “Dual Process” Framework
Alberta has adopted a model similar to Ontario’s, involving two distinct bodies, but with key procedural differences. Successful market entry requires a two-step “dual process”:
1. Regulatory Registration (AGLC): Applicants must first register with the AGLC, which handles due diligence, compliance, and enforcement.
2. Commercial Agreement (AiGC): Once registered, operators will enter into a commercial operating agreement with the newly formed Alberta iGaming Corporation (AiGC).
Key Highlights for Operators and Suppliers
Based on the newly released application guides and regulations, here are the critical parameters for market entry:
- Fee Structure: Unlike Ontario’s two-stage payment, Alberta requires a single upfront payment covering all due diligence costs.
- iGaming Operators: One-time $50,000 application fee + $150,000 CAD annual registration fee
- Suppliers: $15,000 annual registration fee (standard) or $3,000 registration (other goods/services).
- Revenue Share: The province has confirmed a 80/20 net gaming revenue split (80% to operators). Note that a 3% deduction (2% for First Nations funding and 1% for social responsibility) is applied to Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) before the split is calculated. This differs from the Ontario model.
- Transition Period & Marketing: In a move that benefits speed-to-market, operators are permitted to advertise and sign up customers immediately upon acceptance into the registration process and payment of required fees, provided advertising complies with the Regulations. However, deposits and wagers may not be accepted unless and until the operator is registered and the market has officially launched.
- Technical Requirements: Operators must be prepared for SOC 2 Type 1 attestation prior to go-live, with Type 2 required within two years. This is a notable technical standard difference from Ontario. Additionally, platforms must integrate via API with the AGLC’s new centralized self-exclusion system.
Streamlined Access for Existing Operators
Alberta is implementing a risk-based approach to due diligence. If you are already a registered operator in Ontario or a land-based operator approved in Alberta, the AGLC has indicated a “fast-tracked” process with streamlined reporting requirements. However, specific documentation and the “handshake” process with the due diligence team must still be managed carefully to ensure no delays.
Alberta vs. Ontario: Key Operational Differences
While Alberta’s model is based on Ontario’s, the Alberta regime differs in several material respects which should be accounted for in operator’s financial models, technical planning, and compliance programs.
1. Revenue Calculation Mechanics. While the headline revenue share remains an 80/20 split, the calculation method differs from Ontario. In Alberta, a total of 3% (2% for First Nations funding and 1% for social responsibility initiatives) is deducted from the Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) before the 80/20 split is applied. This effectively adjusts the net revenue pool available to operators compared to the Ontario model.
2. Centralized Self-Exclusion (CSE) Integration. Unlike Ontario, where operators manage their own self-exclusion databases, Alberta is launching a Centralized Self-Exclusion (CSE) system managed by the AGLC.
- API Requirement: All iGaming operators must integrate their platforms with the AGLC’s system via API.
- Scope: The system covers both online and land-based gaming. A player self-excluded on the CSE is inadmissible to any gaming facility, whether online or land-based.
- Testing: The AGLC indicated this system is currently in User Acceptance Testing (UAT) and will be available for integration testing well before market launch.
3. Enhanced Player Protection Reminders. The AGLC has adopted stricter cadences for player notifications than currentlyrequired in Ontario:
- Quarterly Reminders: Alberta operators must provide quarterly reminders regarding time and financial limits (limits must be offered upon account creation).
- Monthly Statements: Alberta operators must provide monthly reminders for players to review their financial activity statements.
4. Simplified Fee & Reporting Structure. The AGLC emphasized a “streamlined” administrative approach:
- Upfront Fees: Alberta charges a single upfront application fee that includes all due diligence costs. There is no secondary assessment of investigation costs later in the process, offering greater cost certainty than the Ontario model.
- Reporting Matrix: The AGLC has reviewed the Ontario reporting matrix and removed several reporting requirements they deemed unnecessary, reducing the administrative burden on compliance teams.
5. Information Security Requirements. Unlike in Ontario, Alberta operators will be required to provide SOC 2 attestations for the operator itself (as opposed to the third-party infrastructure provider). A SOC 2 Type 1 attestation is required prior to the go-live date. Beginning in 2028, operators will also be required to maintain ISO 27001 certification and obtain a SOC 2 Type 2 attestation.
How Segev LLP Can Help
Navigating a new regulatory regime requires precision and experienced counsel. Segev LLP is well positioned to support operators and suppliers entering Alberta, drawing on deep gaming and betting experience across Canada and the United States, including in Alberta. We have worked with the AGLC and understand the practical expectations that can drive timelines and outcomes. While Alberta’s model borrows from Ontario, the province’s unique requirements – centralized self-exclusion integration, advertising restrictions under Schedule 1.1, information security requirements, and the AiGC commercial agreement – require a tailored strategy. We help clients move quickly and confidently from application through launch.
Segev LLP is ready to assist operators and suppliers with:
• Registration Management: Guiding you through the AGLC application, due diligence disclosures, and fee structure.
• Corporate Structuring: Ensuring your entity is properly structured to enter the Commercial Agreement with AiGC.
• Compliance Review: Auditing your advertising and platform mechanics against Alberta’s specific social responsibility and technical standards.
• Strategic Advisory: Advising on the transition from “grey market” operations to the regulated framework to maximize the benefits of the transition period marketing rules.
• Commercial Negotiation and Advisory: Negotiating and drafting key contracts with vendors, service providers and other key suppliers, informed by our decades of gaming and betting market knowledge.
Get Started Today
The registration queue is open, and the AGLC is processing applications immediately. To ensure your platform is ready for the 2026 market launch, early engagement is essential.
Contact the Segev LLP Gaming & Betting Team today at [email protected] to discuss your market entry strategy.