iGaming Alberta is the new regulatory authority created by the Government of Alberta under Bill 48 - the iGaming Act. Its role is to oversee, regulate, and manage private-sector online gaming in the province. iGaming Alberta will introduce a structured licensing model similar to Ontario’s approach, allowing approved private operators to legally offer online casino, betting, and interactive gaming to residents of Alberta.
This page provides a clear, plain language summary of the iGaming Alberta framework, its purpose, governance, and what the new Act means for players, operators, and the gaming industry in Alberta.
What is iGaming Alberta?
iGaming Alberta is an independent provincial regulatory body established to manage and oversee Alberta’s new online gaming market. It is responsible for implementing and enforcing the rules defined in Bill 48, ensuring that online gaming within Alberta is conducted in a fair, transparent, and responsible manner.
The creation of iGaming Alberta represents a major shift from Alberta’s previous model, which allowed only a single government-operated platform, PlayAlberta. Under the new framework, private operators will be permitted to apply for licenses to legally operate in the province.
Purpose of the iGaming Alberta Framework
- Protect consumers through responsible gambling standards
- Establish a transparent licensing and oversight system
- Allow private operators to enter Alberta’s online gaming market
- Ensure fair gaming practices and operator accountability
- Prevent fraud, money laundering, and unlawful gaming activity
- Generate revenue for public programs through regulated gaming
Bill 48 – The iGaming Act
Bill 48, formally known as the iGaming Act, creates the legal framework that governs Alberta’s new regulated online gaming market. The Act outlines the responsibilities of iGaming Alberta, the licensing requirements for private operators, enforcement powers, compliance rules, and consumer protection measures.
Key Functions Defined in Bill 48:- Creation of the iGaming Alberta regulatory authority
- Licensing and registration requirements for online gaming operators
- Standards for responsible gambling and player protection
- Advertising, marketing, and promotional restrictions
- Data reporting, auditing, and compliance oversight
- Dispute resolution and enforcement mechanisms
Excerpt from Bill 48 (Fair Dealing):
“The purpose of this Act is to regulate online gaming in a manner that is responsible, transparent, and consistent with the public interest.”
Full text of the Act is available for download from the Legislative Assembly of Alberta:
View Bill 48 - The iGaming Act (Official Source)
How iGaming Alberta Affects Players
For residents of Alberta, the introduction of iGaming Alberta means:
- Greater choice of licensed, approved online gaming providers
- Stronger consumer protections
- Clear dispute resolution pathways
- Safer and more responsible gaming environments
- Oversight similar to Ontario’s highly regulated market
Once the framework is implemented, only operators approved by iGaming Alberta will be legally permitted to offer online gaming to Alberta residents.
How iGaming Alberta Affects Operators
Private online casino and gaming companies wishing to enter Alberta will be required to:
- Apply for and obtain an iGaming Alberta license
- Meet strict technical, financial, and operational standards
- Comply with responsible gambling and anti-money laundering rules
- Undergo continuous monitoring and third party audits
- Adhere to advertising and player acquisition restrictions
More detailed licensing requirements will be published by iGaming Alberta once the regulator’s official website and application process are launched.
Timeline and Implementation
- 2024: Bill 48 introduced and passed
- 2025: iGaming Alberta formally established
- 2026: Launch of licensing program and operator onboarding
During the transition period, PlayAlberta remains the province’s only government-operated online gaming platform. Private operators may apply once licensing guidelines are released.
Responsible Gambling Resources
iGaming Alberta will enforce strong responsible gambling standards. Players seeking support can visit: