How Alberta Online Poker Regulation Works

Alberta's online poker regulation operates through a layered system. The iGaming Alberta Act (Bill 48), passed in 2025, creates the legal framework. The private regulated market opens July 13, 2026. Until then, PlayAlberta.ca is the only legal regulated option in the province.

The Regulatory Structure

• AGLC (Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission): The regulator. Sets standards, issues registrations, and enforces compliance. Operators apply to AGLC for registration.
• AiGC (Alberta iGaming Corporation): Alberta's stand-alone Crown agency (established May 2025) that serves as the "conduct and manage" entity. Operators enter into operating agreements with AiGC to access the market.

Operator Requirements

To offer online poker in Alberta, an operator must register with the AGLC and execute an operating agreement with AiGC. Registration costs C$50,000 (one-time application fee) plus C$150,000 annually. Operators must comply with the Registrar's Standards for Internet Gaming, which cover responsible gambling, advertising, player verification, and fund management. SOC 2 Type 1 certification is required at go-live; Type 2 within two years.

Revenue Sharing

The revenue split is structured as follows: after allocating 2% to First Nations programs and 1% to responsible gambling initiatives, operators retain 80% of net gaming revenue and the province receives 20%. This model was set out in the iGaming Alberta Act.

Player Protections

At launch, every registered operator must connect to AGLC's Centralized Self-Exclusion (CSE) system via API. The CSE check happens at every login. Operators must also send quarterly limit reminders and monthly account statements to players, and fund responsible gambling programs at 1% of gross gaming revenue.

For the market size picture, see Alberta poker market size and trends. To see all expected operators, visit best poker sites in Alberta.