Alberta iGaming Deadline: Stake In, PokerStars and 888 Out

Alberta's transition window for unregulated online gambling operators closes today. Companies seeking a place in the province's regulated iGaming market must exit the gray market by Oct. 13.

The deadline has split the industry. Stake has secured an Alberta license and is preparing to go live. PokerStars and 888 are switching off their international poker services for players in Alberta. These moves mark a major test for Canada's second regulated iGaming market, which opened July 13, 2026.

Alberta's iGaming Rules and Why the Deadline Won't Move

Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) regulates the province's iGaming market. The Alberta iGaming Corporation (AiGC) conducts and manages the market. Operators must register with AGLC before signing a commercial agreement with AiGC.

Under AGLC rules, gray-market operators must also stop unregulated activity to remain eligible. Those that don't comply could be found unsuitable for registration.

Service Alberta Minister Dale Nally ruled out any further extension earlier this month. "We have been very clear that the deadline is October 13th," Nally said.

Before the launch, officials estimated that unregulated sites held about 70% of Alberta's online gambling market.

The province now has more than 40 licensed operators.

Stake Secures Provincial License Ahead of Launch

Stake Canada Ltd. received its AGLC registration on Sept. 24. It then secured its full license on Oct. 6. The company is a subsidiary of Australia's Stake Gaming and Easygo Group. Stake had targeted an Oct. 12 launch, pending an operating agreement with AiGC. As of publication, the company has not publicly confirmed that its site is live.

Country manager Kris Abbott called the Alberta entry an exciting milestone for the brand. "We are not here to blend in," Abbott said. Stake plans to offer online casino games and sports betting in the province. The operator also has a pending license application with Ontario's regulator.

PokerStars and 888 Exit as Poker Awaits Supreme Court Ruling

Alberta poker players are losing access to two major sites today. PokerStars told Alberta customers they would lose access to its poker service on Oct. 13. Similarly, 888 informed players that its international poker service would stop serving Alberta today. Neither operator has announced a regulated poker launch in the province.

Online poker's future in Alberta may hinge on a court ruling. The Supreme Court of Canada heard arguments on Oct. 7 over international shared liquidity. The case will decide whether Ontario's licensed poker sites can pool their players with those in other countries. Alberta argued in favor of shared liquidity at the hearing. The court has reserved judgment, meaning a decision will come at a later date.