Google has started adding the ability to submit Social Casino Games certification applications directly in Google Ads. Previously, advertisers had to visit the Help Center and complete a separate form, but some advertisers can now access the required section directly in their account: Admin → Policy → Account.
The update is currently being rolled out gradually, so the new feature is not available to everyone. If it is not yet available in the account, the application can still be submitted through the Help Center using the old method. Existing certificates and applications already under review will also remain in place.
What is important for Social Casino
The application process is becoming easier, but Google’s requirements for such products remain in place. Social Casino — refers to games with casino mechanics where players cannot win real money or other items of value. A Google certificate is still required to launch ads, and the GEO itself must be included in the list of permitted locations.
The main requirements include:
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not targeting minors and displaying an age restriction;
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stating that the game is not connected to real-money gambling and does not offer real prizes;
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disclosing in-game purchases, if applicable;
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not using the names and logos of real-money casinos;
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having a local license to distribute the game if required in the selected GEO.
There is another important point for those working with several verticals at once. A single Google Ads account cannot be certified for both Social Casino and real-money online gambling at the same time. Separate accounts will be required for them. Starting August 26, Google will also require a separate application for each GEO when launching in multiple countries.
For teams working with Social Casino, the main change is simple: certification applications are now integrated into Google Ads. This makes the process itself more convenient, but the update should not be expected to result in faster or easier approval. Google changed the application method, while the certification requirements remain unchanged.
