Alberta got its first provincially regulated online gambling platform, Play Alberta, on 30 September 2020. On 13 July 2026, the province opened its regulated market to private operators, allowing them to offer online casino games and sports betting. Before this, Albertans could also access offshore gambling sites.
The Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) regulates the market, while the Alberta iGaming Corporation (AiGC) oversees its commercial operations. I will tell you more about the history of gambling in Alberta, how gambling laws have evolved, and what the current rules mean for players.
Is Online Gambling Legal in Alberta in 2026?
Yes, online gambling is legal in Alberta in 2026, because the province's online gambling market officially opened in July 2026, allowing approved private operators to offer online casino games and sports betting.
The Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) and the Alberta iGaming Corporation (AiGC) are the two main authorities which ensure that registered operators meet provincial requirements, including player protection and responsible gambling standards.
You must be at least 18 years old and use an approved private operator or Play Alberta. You can check out our regulated Alberta casinos that our experts have tested and reviewed.
The table below shows the key changes when the gambling market officially opened in Alberta.
| Rule | Before 13 July 2026 | From 13 July 2026 |
| Who can offer online gambling? | Play Alberta was the only legal online gambling platform. | Play Alberta and private operators registered with AGLC and operating under an agreement with AiGC. |
| Who regulates online gambling? | AGLC regulated Play Alberta. | AGLC regulates the market, and AiGC oversees the commercial operations. |
| Legal gambling age | 18+ | 18+ |
| Player protection | Play Alberta provided responsible gambling tools and support. | All operators must meet player protection and responsible gambling requirements. |
When Did Gambling Become Legal in Alberta?
The first steps towards legalizing gambling in Alberta were taken in 1969, when amendments to Canada's Criminal Code allowed provincial governments to run lotteries and license charitable gambling activities. Initially, local police began issuing licences to charitable organizations. In 1973, the provincial government took over licensing responsibility.
In 1974, Alberta held its first provincial lottery and joined British Columbia, Manitoba and Saskatchewan to establish the Western Canada Lottery Foundation. Ticket sales began on 4 August 1974, marking an important milestone in the province's regulated gambling industry.
History of Gambling in Alberta
Sources: This timeline is based on historical research and official records from Cardus, AGLC, the Government of Alberta and the Alberta Gambling Research Institute.
