AGCO Deadline For Unregulated Bookmakers Has Passed

Giannis Kyriazis

Nov 1, 2022

Updated on: Jun 16, 2026

The transition period for bookmakers in Ontario to switch to the regulated market ended yesterday, October 31, according to a statement from the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO). The deadline was set in order to provide sportsbook operators time to get licenses, enabling them to engage in business on the regulated market and to allow unlicensed operators to withdraw from it.

AGCO Deadline For Unregulated Bookmakers Has Passed

What's Next for Unlicensed Bookmakers?

Those who are still operating illegally may now face legal action from the AGCO. When the organisation amended its Registrar's Standards for Internet Gaming, it announced that a notice period would be offered to assist those who were still adjusting to the regulated market. The most significant adjustment was made to standard 1.22, which was changed to establish the October 31 deadline for the transition period.

Yesterday also signaled the start of the enforcement of several other standards, such as standard 4.09, which calls for gaming systems to be installed and maintained in a manner that ensures the security and safety of the users. This is one of the first significant events in Ontario's regulated online betting industry, which began operations on April 4 of this year and a remarkable moment for Canadian bookmakers.

Giannis Kyriazis

Senior Editor

Articles 139

A Bit About Giannis

I am a content and iGaming specialist with almost three decades of experience in online betting and sports media. I have worked across all kinds of mainstream media, sportsbook and casino operators such as bwin and Sportingbet, and digital gaming publications. I have been producing authoritative betting tips, appealing content, and in-depth analyses of markets and odds with a strong focus on sports betting, covering many sports and leagues. My insights help readers make informed betting decisions and navigate the evolving iGaming landscape strategically.