Singapore casinos are a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. These casino venues offer various games including slot machines, video poker and table games. They are usually integrated into a resort property that includes hotels, convention facilities, entertainment shows, theme parks and luxury retail.
Singapore has two integrated resorts - Marina Bay Sands and Resorts World Sentosa - which have become the country's main source of gambling revenue, generating more than S$3 billion per year. They have added attractions such as museums, theatres and high-end hotels, boutiques and restaurants to their existing properties in recent years.
As the Singapore government has stepped up its efforts to limit the social impact of online casino singapore gambling, it has introduced a number of safeguards for Singaporeans and residents. These measures include an entrance fee and a system of exclusions.
The entry fee for all Singaporeans and permanent residents was increased from S$100 to $150 on 4 April 2019. It is strictly non-refundable and non-transferable under any circumstances, including during closures or capacity restrictions (e.g. in a pandemic).
In addition, Singaporeans and permanent residents must pay an entry levy before entering the casinos. This is to ensure that the casino operators have enough funds for their operations, as well as to keep the casinos open during any emergencies.
These fees are regulated by the Gambling Control Act, and residents who fail to pay their entry levies will be subjected to fines.
There are also strict regulations on the amount of money that can be won by gamblers at the casinos. These rules are enforced by the Gaming Regulatory Authority, which was set up to regulate all types of gambling in Singapore.
Individuals can be banned from casinos by putting themselves under self-exclusion orders or family members can do the same. These measures were introduced four years ago to reduce the harm that gambling can have on individuals and their families.
However, the current system can be confusing for those who want to gamble but may be unsure of how to go about it. Fortunately, the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) has launched a website where you can choose from a range of options such as self-exclusions and visit limits.
For those who do not wish to put themselves under a self-exclusion order, you can still visit the casino by obtaining a permit from the National Council on Problem Gambling. This is an easy and fast process, and you can do it online at the NCPG's website.
You will need to provide a copy of your passport, long-term visitor pass, Ministry of Foreign Affairs-issued identity card for diplomats and other linked documents. You will need to dress appropriately for the casino environment.
Those who do not want to gamble can try out the Singapore Pools' informed play system, which aims to promote responsible gambling. It enables patrons to monitor their betting behaviour, prompt them to make more informed choices and help them avoid overspending.
