Alberta has announced plans to permit private companies to operate online gambling platforms. This regulatory shift follows Ontario’s successful model, where private gambling websites coexist with government-run platforms. Alberta’s initiative aims to move beyond the current monopoly held by the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) through its Play Alberta website. With the introduction of Bill 16 in April 2024 by Minister Dale Nally, the provincial government’s authority to manage and conduct gaming in Alberta has been clarified, paving the way for a regulated and competitive
online gambling market.

The current online gambling market in Alberta is predominantly controlled by Play Alberta, which is estimated to hold 45% of the market share. Despite this, unregulated online gaming sites still account for approximately 55% of Alberta’s iGaming market. Bill 16, also known as the Red Tape Reduction Statutes Amendment Act, aims to reduce this unregulated market by officially permitting and regulating private online gambling operators. This move is expected to align Alberta’s online gambling practices with those of Ontario, the only Canadian province that currently allows privately owned gambling websites. In Ontario, more than 50 regulated private operators manage 80 gambling
websites.

Revenue and Economic Considerations

The fiscal impact of online gambling in Alberta has been significant. In the first quarter of the 2024-25 fiscal year, online gambling revenues reached $726 million, up from $540 million in the prior year. Since its launch in October 2020, Play Alberta has taken around $5.36 billion in total bets over 12 months ending March 31, contributing $234 million to Alberta’s general revenue fund. This financial input highlights the potential benefits of expanding the market to include multiple operators.

Ontario’s experience showcases the economic benefits of a regulated and competitive online gambling market. Ontario’s iGaming sector has contributed CA$2.7 billion to the province’s GDP and created almost 15,000 full-time equivalent jobs in the second year after its inception. A report by Deloitte revealed that Ontario’s market had hit or nearly reached many of its year-five projections within two years, offering a promising benchmark for Alberta as it makes regulatory changes.

One challenge Alberta may face is integrating self-exclusion infrastructure across online gambling sites. Experts like Dr. Nigel Turner emphasize the importance of responsible gambling practices. Unlike Alberta, Ontario currently lacks provincewide self-exclusion tools and mandatory limit-setting, which Alberta is considering implementing. Minister Dale Nally has indicated that Alberta aims to create a safer and more responsible gambling environment by introducing these tools, aligning with the goal of reducing the unregulated market and ensuring player safety.

Private Operators Entering Alberta’s Online Gambling Market

The entry of private operators, such as FanDuel online casino, is expected to reshape Alberta’s online gambling market. Increased competition from private operators will likely lead to more gaming options and better technologies, improving the user experience. Ontario’s model demonstrates the benefits of a competitive market, including the reduced influence of unregulated offshore sites.

The inclusion of operators like FanDuel presents substantial growth opportunities for Alberta’s online gambling sector. FanDuel’s presence will expand the selection of games and enhance user experiences, contributing to increased provincial revenues through regulated activities. This aligns with Alberta’s objective of fostering a secure and responsible gambling environment while capitalizing on the economic advantages of a well-regulated market.

Economic and Job Growth Projections

Canada’s online casino industry is on track to surpass $2 billion in gross gaming revenue in 2024, nearly tripling from the $750 million recorded in 2020. This growth has spurred job creation, with over 25,000 direct jobs expected in 2024. As more Canadians engage with online gambling, economic contributions from this sector continue to expand, impacting industries such as software development, customer support, marketing, and finance.

Approximately 20 million Canadians, or about 50% of the population, engaged with online casinos at least once in 2024, a significant increase from 10 million in 2020. This growing user base highlights the widespread adoption of online gambling. In Alberta, per-capita gambling spending is notably high, with many participants using unregulated sites. The province aims to draw these funds into the regulated market, ensuring that online gambling activities occur within safe and legal frameworks.

Regulatory Framework and Consultation Process

The Alberta government has initiated consultations to develop a comprehensive strategy for the future online gambling market. These discussions involve key stakeholders, including casinos, racing entertainment centers, and First Nations, ensuring that diverse perspectives are considered. A primary goal of these consultations is to create a framework that promotes safety, responsibility, and economic benefits for the province.

Minister Dale Nally has emphasized that opening the market will only proceed once a robust regulatory framework is in place. This cautious approach aims to eliminate the influence of  unregulated offshore gambling websites, ensuring that all activities are subject to provincial oversight. An independent administrator, similar to iGaming Ontario, is planned to oversee the commercial market in Alberta.

The revenue split between Alberta’s government and private operators remains under discussion. In Ontario, the provincial government takes 20% of revenues from regulated gambling websites, contributing $790 million in taxes last year. This model may offer insights into potential revenue-sharing arrangements in Alberta, balancing the need to attract private operators with the goal of maximizing public revenues.

Challenges and Opportunities in Alberta’s Online Gambling Market

Alberta’s move toward a regulated online gambling market faces the challenge of attracting private operators who may hesitate to share player information with AGLC, the operator of Play Alberta. Private operators have expressed reluctance to disclose data to a direct competitor. Addressing these concerns will be essential for building a competitive and dynamic market.

Alberta’s high per-capita gambling spending underscores the potential for regulated online gambling to channel more funds within the province. By capturing this existing gambling activity through regulated channels, Alberta can enhance player safety while generating significant economic benefits.

Conclusion

Alberta’s transition toward a regulated online gambling market is poised to generate significant economic growth and job creation, while enhancing player safety and responsible gambling practices. By following Ontario’s successful model, Alberta has the potential to build a competitive, secure, and regulated iGaming environment. As the province finalizes its regulatory framework and addresses challenges like data-sharing concerns, it can unlock the benefits of a growing iGaming market while protecting both players and the public interest. Alberta’s careful approach ensures that this shift benefits the province’s economy while safeguarding players from unregulated sites.

Portugal offers multiple visa options for those looking to legalize their stay, with the Startup Visa and D7 Visa being popular choices. Both provide unique pathways to residency, catering to different types of applicants. While the Startup Visa focuses on entrepreneurs aiming to establish businesses, the D7 Visa is tailored for individuals with passive income sources.

Albert Ioffe, Legal and Compliance Officer at Immigrant Invest, breaks down the costs, and requirements for both visas, including the process to obtain Portugal Passive Income Visa, helping you decide which option suits your circumstances best.

How to Relocate to Portugal with a Startup Visa

The Startup Visa is designed for entrepreneurs. Portugal encourages the creation of innovative businesses that contribute to the country’s economy.

Costs. Setting up a startup in Portugal can involve initial investment costs, business incorporation fees, and other startup expenses. While no specific minimum investment is required, you need to prove you have the financial means to establish and sustain your business.

Additional costs may include legal fees for business setup, accounting services, and any initial hiring of employees.

Process. You begin by applying to a certified incubator in Portugal, which will assess the feasibility of your business idea. If accepted, the incubator will issue a certificate, allowing you to apply for the visa. Once you receive the visa, you can relocate to Portugal.

The entire approval process can take four months, so it’s important to apply well in advance.

Documents. Key documents to get Portugal Startup Visa include:

● a valid passport;
● proof of financial resources;
● a solid business plan;
● the incubator’s acceptance letter.

Supporting documents, such as a criminal background check and health insurance, are also required.

Requirements. Your business idea must be innovative, and you must intend to create jobs in Portugal. Also, your business should be technology-based or scalable. Entrepreneurs should also demonstrate financial viability, which could include showing bank statements or other proof of funding.

How to Immigrate to Portugal with a D7 Visa

The D7 Visa offers a path to residency for those with stable, passive income. This includes pensions, investments, or rental income. It’s a popular choice for retirees and individuals seeking a slower, less business-driven route to Portuguese residency.

Costs. The financial requirements for the D7 Visa depend on your income. You must demonstrate sufficient funds to support yourself while living in Portugal.

The general rule is that you need at least the equivalent of the Portuguese minimum wage, currently set at around €820 per month. If you are bringing a family, the income requirement increases by 50% for a spouse and for 30% for each dependent child.

Process. After gathering the necessary documents, you can apply for the D7 Visa at the Portuguese consulate in your country of residence. Once approved, you receive a temporary visa, allowing you to enter Portugal and apply for your residence permit.

The permit is usually valid for two years and can be renewed.

Documents. Required documents include:

● proof of passive income;
● a valid passport;
● health insurance;
● proof of accommodation in Portugal.

Additional documentation, such as tax returns, may also be required to demonstrate the sustainability of your income.

Requirements. You must have a regular passive income source that can sustain you and any dependents during your stay in Portugal. Your income should come from legitimate, verifiable sources, such as investments or rental properties.

Also, you must prove sufficient savings to cover living expenses for at least 12 months.

Portugal D7 Passive Income Visa vs. Startup Visa

The main difference between the two visas lies in their requirements and target applicants.

The D7 Visa is suitable for those with passive income, while the Startup Visa is geared towards entrepreneurs.

Eligibility. The D7 Visa requires proof of passive income, while the Startup Visa requires an innovative business idea accepted by an incubator. The Startup Visa also mandates a commitment to building a business that has the potential for scalability and job creation in Portugal.

Initial costs. The D7 Visa has lower initial costs since there’s no need to invest in a business. In contrast, the Startup Visa may involve more upfront expenses, including business setup costs.

However, entrepreneurs might be able to take advantage of business incentives and grants offered by the Portuguese government.

Flexibility. The D7 Visa offers more flexibility for retirees or those not wishing to run a business. On the other hand, the Startup Visa is ideal for entrepreneurs looking to develop a new venture.

Both visas, however, require proof of stable finances to ensure that applicants are not a burden on the Portuguese state.

Permanent Residency and Citizenship After D7 and Startup Visa

Both visas lead to residency in Portugal, and after five years, you can apply for permanent residency or citizenship.

Entrepreneurs who successfully maintain their business in Portugal can apply for permanent residency after five years. Continuous business operations and proof of financial stability are key.

Additionally, you must prove basic knowledge of Portuguese, which is typically demonstrated through a language test.

Similarly, D7 Visa holders who maintain their passive income stream and comply with Portuguese residency requirements can apply for permanent residency after five years. Both pathways allow for family reunification, offering residency to spouses and dependents.

Portuguese citizenship offers the additional benefit of visa-free travel within the EU and access to various EU rights.

Conclusion

Choosing the right visa depends on your circumstances. The Startup Visa is ideal for entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas, while the D7 Visa is better suited for those with stable passive income. Both pathways offer opportunities to gain permanent residency and eventually citizenship in Portugal.