Alberta players can self-exclude through AGLC's centralized Self-Exclusion Program, which restricts access to registered iGaming platforms, land-based casinos and racing entertainment centres, or both. The digital registration process is available online, and AGLC requires registered iGaming operators to integrate with the centralized program.
In this guide, we explain how Alberta's self-exclusion system works, how to register, which gambling services it covers and what happens to your casino accounts once the exclusion is active.
What is Alberta's Self-Exclusion Program?
Alberta's Self-Exclusion Program is a centralized way to take a break from regulated gambling in the province. The Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission (AGLC) operates it, and it covers participating in online and land-based gambling services.
| Key Point | What Does It Mean |
| Operated by AGLC | The program is managed by Alberta's provincial gambling regulator. |
| Centralized system | You can self-exclude through one system without contacting each casino separately. |
| Available 24/7 | You can access the digital self-exclusion service online at any time. |
| Covers regulated iGaming | Registered Alberta iGaming operators must integrate with the centralized Self-Exclusion Program. |
| Different exclusion scopes | You can choose online gambling, land-based gambling, or both, depending on your needs. |
How to Self-Exclude From Alberta Online Casinos
Self-exclusion is done through Alberta's centralized digital service, which means you won't have to do it separately in each online casino. The process is very straightforward and can be completed online by following these simple steps:
- Visit the official Self-Exclusion service
- Follow the instructions to begin your self-exclusion registration.
- Choose what you want to exclude yourself from - You can select online gambling, land-based gambling, or both.
- Choose your exclusion period - You can select a period of 6 months, 1 year, 2 years or 3 years. The agreement cannot be shortened, cancelled or withdrawn before it expires.
- Complete the required registration and verification - Enter your personal information exactly as it appears on your government-issued identification. This information is used to complete and administer your Self-Exclusion Program registration.
- Confirm your self-exclusion - Review your choices and confirm the registration to activate your exclusion.
What Can You Exclude Yourself From?
AGLC's centralized program currently provides three options:
- Online gambling - All registered iGaming platforms participating in Alberta's regulated market
- Land-based gambling - All Alberta casinos and racing entertainment centres covered by the program
- Both - Regulated iGaming platforms plus participating land-based gambling venues
Check the selected scope carefully before confirming your registration, as it will determine where your self-exclusion applies.
Which Online Casinos Does the Self-Exclusion Cover?
The centralized Self-Exclusion Program works with all registered iGaming platforms operating within Alberta's regulated market. AGLC requires registered iGaming operators to integrate with the centralized program, so choosing online gambling as your exclusion scope applies to all the participating platforms.
However, an Alberta self-exclusion does not block every gambling website available on the internet. Offshore and other unregulated gambling sites are outside Alberta's regulated iGaming system and are therefore not covered by the program.
❗Important: If you also have accounts with gambling sites outside Alberta's regulated market, you will need to contact those operators separately to close your accounts or request self-exclusion.
What Happens After You Self-Exclude?
Once your self-exclusion is active, the restrictions apply for the full period you selected. You cannot shorten, cancel or withdraw your exclusion before it expires.
Here are the key questions answered:
❓Can I still log in to my casino accounts?
✔️ No. Once your self-exclusion is active, you cannot access the regulated iGaming platforms. The exclusion applies across all registered iGaming platforms if you selected the online gambling option.
❓Can I place bets or play casino games?
✔️ No. While you are self-excluded, you cannot use the gambling services covered by your selected exclusion. This includes online casino and other iGaming activities if you selected the online gambling scope.
❓What happens to the money in my casino account?
✔️ Self-exclusion does not mean that you automatically lose any funds already held in your account. If you have a remaining balance, contact the casino operator for instructions on how to withdraw it.
❓What happens to my open bets?
✔️ If you have unsettled bets when your self-exclusion takes effect, contact the relevant operator to find out how they will be handled. How open bets are treated can depend on the operator and the type of bet.
❓Will I still receive casino marketing emails and promotions?
✔️ Participating gambling operators must take steps to prevent self-excluded players from receiving promotional advertising. If you continue receiving marketing messages after self-excluding, contact the operator and ask for them to be removed.
❓Can I simply create another account with a different Alberta casino?
✔️ No. The centralized program applies across the regulated Alberta iGaming market, so opening another account with a participating operator does not bypass your self-exclusion.
❓What happens if I try to gamble while self-excluded?
✔️ You should not attempt to bypass the exclusion. The centralized system is designed to prevent access to the regulated gambling services covered by your agreement. If you have difficulty maintaining your exclusion or feel you need additional support, GameSense and Alberta's addiction services can provide help.
💡 Expert Insight: Follow-up support is available
You can opt in to follow-up contact from the Self-Exclusion Program team during your exclusion period, usually at 10, 30, 60, 90 and 175 days. You'll also be contacted within 30 days before your exclusion expires. These check-ins provide additional resources and support.
Where to Get Help With Gambling in Alberta
If gambling is becoming difficult to control, you don't have to deal with it on your own. Alberta Health information lists several services offering different types of help, from confidential professional treatment and one-to-one support to peer meetings and practical responsible gambling tools.
| 🆘 Support Channel | ☎️ How to Contact |
|---|---|
| Alberta Health Services: Offers professional help for gambling concerns, including assessment, counselling and treatment for people who are struggling with their gambling |
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| Alberta Gamblers Anonymous: A peer-led support network where people can attend meetings, share their experiences and work towards stopping or controlling gambling |
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| GameSense: Helps Albertans understand how gambling works, recognize their gambling habits and use tools such as spending and time limits to stay in control |
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| Evive (GamTalk): An online community offering information and a space to talk with others who have experienced gambling-related difficulties | |
| The Responsible Gambling Council (RGC): Develops resources and education aimed at reducing gambling-related harm and encouraging safer gambling practices |
