Katrina Griffiths
Senior editor
Published on: 02.06.2026
Self-Exclusion in Alberta: How It Works and Who Can Use It
Self-exclusion is a mechanism or tool regulated and required by the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission (AGLC). It’s available to any player with an account at a licensed Alberta online casino. Because enrolment is handled through the AGLC rather than individual operators, signing up through one channel blocks your access across every AGLC-licensed online casino platform simultaneously.
Read on for everything you need to know about self-exclusion tools including who qualifies, how to enrol online or by phone, the duration options available, what happens to your account once you’re enroled, and how to lift an exclusion when you’re ready to do so.
Who can use self-exclusion
Any player with a registered account at an AGLC-licensed operator is eligible, and no reason is required. The threshold for enrolment is intentionally low to encourage use. You don’t need to be in crisis to use self-exclusion, and you won’t be asked to justify your decision.
One important limitation: self-exclusion under the AGLC system only covers online and physical platforms licensed by the AGLC. Offshore and unlicensed casinos operating outside Alberta’s regulatory framework are not bound by this system and will not be included.
How to enrol
There are two possible avenues when it comes to enroling in self-exclusion.
Online
To enrol online, navigate to the responsible gambling section inside your account settings at any AGLC-licensed casino, or go directly to the AGLC’s GameSense portal.
From there, select the self-exclusion option, choose a duration, and confirm your identity. The process is standardized across all licensed operators, so it doesn’t matter which casino platform you start from. Once confirmed, the exclusion applies to all AGLC-licensed online casino accounts, not just the one you used to enrol.
By Phone
Self-exclusion can also be initiated by calling the GameSense support line at 1-833-447-7523. This option is great for players who prefer not to log in to a casino account to begin the process. Phone enrolment carries the same coverage as online enrolment, and your exclusion will apply across all AGLC-licensed platforms including physical casinos once it has been confirmed.
Duration options
The AGLC requires all licensed operators to offer four duration options: 6 months, 12 months, 24 months, or 36 months. There is also a permanent exclusion. Please note that none of these options expire automatically. If you enroled for 6 months, your exclusion does not simply lift when the period ends; it just allows you to end it. You must take a deliberate step to resume access.
A permanent exclusion carries additional friction to reverse. Unlike the shorter durations, lifting a permanent exclusion requires a formal reapplication process through the AGLC, not a simple toggle or account change. These steps are by design.
What to expect once you’re enrolled
Once your self-exclusion is confirmed, four things happen.
- Your account is suspended or closed, and login access is blocked. You will not be able to access the platform for the duration of your exclusion.
- Any funds you have on deposit will be returned to you. The casino cannot hold funds in an inaccessible account while your exclusion is active.
- All marketing communications from the operator must stop. Promotional emails, SMS messages, and targeted advertising must cease while your exclusion is in effect.
- Any winnings accumulated during an active exclusion may be voided.
The operator is required to screen for self-exclusion each time there is a login. If a breach is detected, meaning you managed to access the platform while excluded, and winnings accumulate, they are not payable.
How to lift a self-exclusion
To lift a self-exclusion, you must contact the AGLC (not the casino) directly. A mandatory cooling-off period of typically 7 days applies between your request and the exclusion being lifted. The lifting of the exclusion is confirmed in writing before any platform access is restored.
The waiting time and friction is intentional and designed to prevent an impulsive decision from immediately restoring access during a vulnerable moment.
Additional support and resources
While self-exclusion is a practical access tool, it is not a substitute for treatment or counselling when gambling stops being fun. If you want additional support, resources are available in Alberta depending on your needs.
GameSense is the AGLC’s responsible gambling resource and is embedded at every licensed casino. In addition to offering education, they have a group of people available to talk. GameSense advisors are available by phone if you need information or just want to discuss the realities of gambling.
Alberta Health Services and other community resources also operate a mental health and addiction helpline available 24 hours a day.
Conclusion
Self-exclusion is an AGLC license requirement. Every operator holding an AGLC license must honour it, and no licensed casino can decline or complicate the process. What makes this mechanism meaningful and more than just a token gesture is that it applies across every licensed platform simultaneously. That coverage is something no unlicensed or offshore casino can match.
