Alberta is now a hotbed of online gambling. The government-run PlayAlberta previously held a monopoly on regulated online gambling in the province, but Bill 48 opened the door for new operators to enter the market on July 13, 2026.
Let's dig into the current rules governing Alberta online casinos and Alberta sports betting sites, as well as what has changed since launch. We'll then look at how players can responsibly wager at legal AB online casinos and sportsbooks in this new era.
Covers Expert Analysis
Geoff Zochodne, Senior News Analyst
Legal online gambling in Alberta
There is now more than one option to bet online at a site regulated by an Alberta authority. PlayAlberta.ca is joined by a growing list of AiGC-licensed operators since the July 13, 2026 launch.
PlayAlberta was launched by Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis in October 2020. The government-owned platform features live dealer games, online slots, iLottery games, sports betting, and more.
For now, you do still have the opportunity to gamble at sites that hold international licenses from authorities such as the Malta Gaming Authority and the Curacao Gaming Control Board.
These operate in what is known as the "grey market" and are not illegal for Alberta players to access during the transition period, which should wind down by October or November 2026. While these Canada online casinos are available across most of the country, they are not subject to AB-specific regulations and do not pay tax to the province.
If these operators want to stay on past the transition period, they'll have to apply for licenses and follow the rules set by Alberta's regulating bodies.
| Type of gambling site | Advantages/disadvantages |
|---|---|
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Regulated |
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Grey market |
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Bill 48 and the AIGC framework
Bill 48 outlined a regulated framework for private operators to enter the market, and the bill received Royal Assent in May of 2025.
Bill 48 in focus
"Bill 48, also known as the iGaming Alberta Act, created a new oversight entity, the Alberta iGaming Corporation (AIGC). The Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission retains a 'regulatory oversight role.'
"The AiGC's main role is to ensure that operators comply with all federal and provincial legislation, and to promote responsible gaming in Alberta.
"The AiGC enforces a similar tax on gaming revenues as Ontario, which taxes operators at 20%."
The regulatory framework for these new operators follows a similar structure to that which governs Ontario casinos. First and foremost, you must be 18 years of age or older to gamble in Alberta.
As far as Canada sports betting fans in AB are concerned, you can wager at the PlayAlberta.ca sportsbook, and you can play "sports betting games" at Sport Select. However, a much wider range of household names is now available since the regulated market launched.
How to play legally
Now that Alberta gaming has expanded and launch day has come and gone, signing up for a site is simple. You can pre-register your interest with several casinos, such as Caesars, or sportsbooks, such as theScore Bet.
Here is a step-by-step look at how the sign-up process plays out:
Verify eligibility
You must be over 18-years-old to gamble. You will also need to be located within the borders of the province.
Choose a regulated option
PlayAlberta is available now, or choose from AIGC-licensed operators that launched on July 13, 2026.
Create an account
You will likely need to enter your name, address, social security number, and phone number to create an account at one of these sites. You may also be asked for a copy of your driver's license or other proof of citizenship.
Deposit
Deposit using a supported method like Visa, Mastercard, INTERAC, or PayPal.
Set limits and play
Set deposit and wagering limits, as well as any 'reality check' timers. Then begin playing games.
Withdraw funds
If you've won, withdraw funds using secure, supported methods.
Self-exclusion and AiGS player protections
In an effort to promote responsible gaming, the AiGC has introduced a self-exclusion platform called GameSense AB. This allows gamblers to exclude themselves from being able to access legal AB gambling sites for a period of time. The duration is chosen by the user and typically ranges from six months to a lifetime. Some regions require users to apply for reinstatement after the self-exclusion period ends.
Alberta also includes additional behavioral monitoring methods to ensure users gamble safely. They instruct operators to suspend an individual’s accounts if they continually chase losses or increase bet sizes. Session length and deposit limits will also be considered when enforcing responsible gaming.
Alberta gambling FAQ
Yes, online gambling is legal in Alberta through Play Alberta. Bill 48 is set to expand betting options in the province.
Using offshore gambling apps comes with risk. You risk having your bank close your account for engaging in offshore transactions, and there have been many cases of offshore sites not paying out enough money, or not paying out at all. We recommend grey market operators licensed by international gaming boards, but do not endorse unlicensed offshore casinos.
You must be 18-years-old to gamble in Alberta.
If you place a wager at a reputable site like PlayAlberta and you win your bet, you should expect a payout.
The AIGC has not yet announced a launch date for private casinos and the regulated market.
If you are struggling with gambling, you can consider signing up for the AIGC’s self-exclusion program at https://www.selfexclusion.ca/s/. Self-exclusion will temporarily ban you from online gambling in the province.
