Alberta Regulation 2/2026 amends the Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Regulation to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework for iGaming in Alberta, while also updating existing provisions related to licensing, registration, exclusions, and social responsibility. The amendments are made under the Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Act and are designed to integrate online gaming into Alberta’s regulated gaming environment with strong integrity, consumer protection, and harm-reduction measures.

The Regulation begins by introducing a formal definition of a “self-exclusion program” administered by the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission, clarifying its role across both land-based and online gaming. It expands the Commission’s registration authorities to include iGaming supplier registrations and reorganizes existing regulatory headings to clearly distinguish between licences, registration, and general provisions. Several technical amendments refine exclusion rules for physical gaming facilities, ensuring that responsibility is clearly assigned to licensees, employees, or agents who know or have been advised by the Commission of an individual’s exclusion status. Exceptions are clarified for individuals enrolled in self-exclusion programs solely for online gaming purposes or those entering gaming premises as a requirement of paid employment.

A new Division dedicated to iGaming establishes detailed definitions for iGaming operators, workers, and players, and sets out registration exemptions for certain individuals and service providers whose activities are not directly related to gaming operations. The Regulation strictly prohibits individuals convicted of specified Criminal Code offences, including cheating, money laundering, or terrorist activity, from accessing iGaming sites. Operators are prohibited from permitting such individuals to participate unless the board issues a notice allowing access. Comparable restrictions apply to individuals convicted under substantially similar foreign laws or legally excluded in other jurisdictions.

Self-exclusion is a central feature of the new framework. Individuals enrolled in a self-exclusion program for iGaming are prohibited from accessing iGaming sites, and operators must actively enforce these prohibitions. The Regulation also creates a broad “inadmissible” category, allowing operators and the Commission to immediately terminate access for individuals whose conduct threatens the integrity or lawful operation of iGaming activities.

Extensive advertising rules are introduced to promote integrity and social responsibility. Advertising is defined broadly to include marketing and promotions and is subject to strict requirements prohibiting targeting of minors, self-excluded individuals, or high-risk persons. Advertising must be truthful, non-misleading, and compliant with detailed standards set out in a new Schedule. Inducements, bonuses, and credits are tightly regulated, permitted only on iGaming sites or through player-specific advertising with express consent, and must clearly disclose all material conditions.

Alberta (2/2026) February 3, 2026
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