Google Ads has announced significant policy changes affecting healthcare services and dating advertisers, with new implementation timelines and certification requirements.
Healthcare Policy Changes
Google Ads is expanding its Healthcare and medicines policy in March 2025 to include recovery-oriented drug and alcohol addiction services in Canada. Key requirements include:
- Mandatory LegitScript Addiction Treatment Certification
- Policy violations will receive 7-day advance warning before account suspension
- Certified advertisers can apply for Google certification post-policy update
Dating and Companionship Policy Revisions
Google has modified its previously announced Dating and companionship ads policy with important timeline changes:
Updated Implementation Dates:
- New enforcement date: April 9, 2025 (moved from March 4, 2025)
- Aggregator certification begins: February 25, 2025
Aggregator Policy Updates:
- Aggregators can continue operations with proper certification
- Restricted to Search platform with age and country limitations
- Must comply with general and restricted content guidelines
The policy maintains its mandatory certification requirement for all dating and companionship advertisers, with uncertified advertisers prohibited from running ads after the enforcement date.
