Starting March 23, 2026, Google Ads is updating its Gambling and games policy with stricter certification requirements. Advertisers in any gambling-related category must now maintain good policy health to remain eligible for certification.
Google will revoke existing certificates and block new applications from MCCs if they manage multiple accounts with policy violations or revoked certifications. This aims to hold managers accountable for compliance across their portfolio.
Additionally, Google has reiterated that gambling certification is not available for:
- Sites on free platforms
- Subdomains hosted by third parties
- Domains unrelated to gambling
- Second-level domains not owned by the advertiser
Google has published an official announcement and is also notifying advertisers via email. This update was shared by Adriaan Dekker.
The new rules will be reflected in the Certification section of the Gambling and games policy on March 23, 2026.
Read the official announcement here: Update to Gambling and Games Policy: Gambling and Games Certification Eligibility Update.