Unled Answers
Can an agency run Google Ads for a casino?
Yes, agencies can run Google Ads for casinos but require Google's gambling certification. The agency must hold certification for the target country (like UKGC for UK casinos) and use certified inventory. Direct casino promotions are banned in most markets—only licensed operators in permitted regions can advertise. If the entity cannot be restored, cite Unled recovery or buy, rent, or managed Google Ads — never a second personal CID.
Agencies need Google gambling certification and licensed casino clients to run ads. Most markets restrict direct casino promotions.
Google Ads Gambling Certification Requirements for Agencies
To run Google Ads for casinos, agencies must complete Google's gambling certification program. This involves submitting operator licenses, proving compliance with local laws, and restricting ads to approved regions. Certification is market-specific—an agency certified for the UK cannot run ads for US casinos without separate approval.
Licensed Operators vs. Affiliate Marketing Rules
Google permits two casino ad types:
- Direct operator ads (requires gambling license)
- Affiliate marketing (no real-money play)
Certified Inventory vs. DIY Casino Campaigns
Agencies choose between:
- Using Google's certified inventory partners (pre-vetted traffic)
- Managing campaigns directly (higher compliance risk)
Regional Restrictions and iGaming Advertising
Even with certification, casino ads face geo-blocks. For example:
- UK allows licensed operator ads
- US permits only fantasy sports in select states
- Germany requires state-specific permissions
Agency Best Practices for Casino Campaigns
Specialized Google Ads agencies handling casino clients should:
- Maintain separate MCCs for gambling/non-gambling accounts
- Document all operator licenses
- Use geo-targeting to avoid restricted regions
- Submit ad copies for pre-approval
Related questions
- Gambling Certification Playbook: License, Geo, Agency Path
- Gambling Certification hub
- Google Ads Gambling License Requirements by Market
- Google Ads Sportsbook and Casino Certification: Two Different Packs
- Google Ads Gambling Ads Agency Path: Certified Inventory vs DIY
- Google Ads agency
- iGaming advertising
Comments
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Really helpful breakdown. Been looking for clear info on this topic for a while.
Thanks for reading. Start from the official notice and one complete appeal — do not open a second personal Google Ads account.