Entry Fee Overview
Singapore's casino entry levy is one of the most distinctive features of the country's gambling regulatory framework. Introduced alongside the Casino Control Act 2006, the entry fee was designed as a social safeguard to discourage excessive casino gambling among Singapore residents while keeping the casinos accessible to tourists who contribute to the country's tourism revenue.
The entry levy structure is straightforward: Singapore citizens and permanent residents (PRs) must pay SGD 150 per 24-hour visit or SGD 3,000 for an annual membership. The 24-hour levy period begins from the time of entry, and you can exit and re-enter the casino as many times as you wish within that 24-hour window without paying additional fees. If you exit the casino and return after the 24-hour period has expired, you must pay another SGD 150 or hold a valid annual membership.
The annual membership of SGD 3,000 is cost-effective only if you plan to visit the casino more than 20 times per year (since 20 x SGD 150 = SGD 3,000). For casual visitors who go once or twice a month, the per-visit levy is the more economical option. For frequent visitors, the annual pass eliminates the friction of paying at each visit and can represent significant savings.
The levy can be paid at the casino entrance using cash, NETS, or credit card. The payment is processed at the entry point before you are granted access to the gaming floor. Keep your levy receipt — you may need it to prove your 24-hour window is still active if you exit and re-enter.
Foreign visitors — including tourists, business travellers, and anyone who is not a Singapore citizen or permanent resident — enter both casinos completely free of charge. You simply present your valid passport at the entrance for identity verification and age confirmation, and you are granted access at no cost. This dual-tier system ensures that the casinos function as tourism assets while the levy acts as a deterrent against excessive gambling among locals.
Who Pays
The casino entry levy applies based on your citizenship or residency status, not your country of birth or ethnicity. Here is a clear breakdown of who pays and who does not:
Must Pay the Levy (SGD 150/day or SGD 3,000/year):
Singapore citizens (regardless of whether they reside in Singapore or abroad), Singapore permanent residents (PR holders). This includes dual citizens who hold Singapore citizenship as one of their nationalities. The levy applies equally to both Marina Bay Sands and Resorts World Sentosa — paying the levy at one casino does not grant you entry to the other; you would need to pay separately at each.
Free Entry:
All foreign nationals with a valid passport, including tourists, business visitors on work passes (Employment Pass, S Pass, Work Permit holders who are not PRs), students on Student Passes, and dependants on Dependent Passes (who are not PRs). Essentially, if you are not a Singapore citizen or PR, entry is free.
Important Note on Age: Regardless of your citizenship status, you must be at least 21 years old to enter either casino. This age limit is higher than the 18-year minimum for Singapore Pools products (Toto, 4D, Singapore Sweep) and is strictly enforced through ID checks at the entrance. There are no exceptions — even accompanied minors are not permitted on the gaming floor.
Marina Bay Sands Casino
Marina Bay Sands (MBS) is Singapore's most iconic integrated resort, located in the heart of the downtown Marina Bay district. The resort is instantly recognisable by its three 55-storey hotel towers connected by the rooftop SkyPark. The casino is housed in the base of the resort, spanning an impressive gaming floor that is one of the largest in Southeast Asia.
Location: 10 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018956. The casino is accessible from the Bayfront MRT station (Circle Line and Downtown Line), making it one of the most conveniently located casinos in the world. Taxi and ride-share drop-off points are located at the resort entrance, and the casino has its own dedicated car park.
Gaming Floor: The MBS casino spans approximately 15,000 square metres (161,000 square feet) of gaming space. It features over 500 table games and approximately 1,600 electronic gaming machines. Table games include baccarat, blackjack, roulette, craps, sic bo, poker (including Texas Hold'em), pontoon, and various game variants. The electronic gaming section includes slot machines, electronic roulette, and electronic baccarat terminals.
Gaming Areas: The casino is divided into several distinct areas. The main gaming floor accommodates mass-market players with accessible table minimums. Premium gaming rooms — sometimes called VIP or high-limit rooms — cater to high-roller players and require higher minimum bets. The Paiza Club and Sands Premier offer exclusive gaming experiences for invited guests and members, with dedicated hosts, private gaming salons, and personalised services.
Table Minimums: On the main gaming floor, table minimums typically start at SGD 25-50 for blackjack and baccarat, though these can vary based on day, time, and demand. During peak hours and weekends, minimums tend to be higher. Premium rooms have significantly higher minimums, often starting at SGD 500 or more.
Amenities: Within and adjacent to the casino, MBS offers a wide range of dining options, from casual eateries to fine-dining restaurants. The resort also features a luxury shopping mall (The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands), the ArtScience Museum, the Sands Theatre, and the famous rooftop infinity pool (for hotel guests only). For those interested in the MBS casino dress code, we have a detailed guide covering what to wear.
Resorts World Sentosa Casino
Resorts World Sentosa (RWS) is Singapore's second integrated resort, located on Sentosa Island — a resort island connected to the mainland by a short causeway. While MBS draws a more corporate and downtown crowd, RWS caters strongly to families and leisure travellers, though its casino is equally serious as a gaming destination.
Location: 8 Sentosa Gateway, Sentosa Island, Singapore 098269. RWS is accessible via the Sentosa Express monorail from VivoCity (HarbourFront MRT station), by car via the Sentosa Gateway, or by the Sentosa Boardwalk. The casino is located within the resort complex, adjacent to the Hotel Michael and Crockfords Tower.
Gaming Floor: The RWS casino covers approximately 15,000 square metres of gaming space — comparable in size to MBS. It features over 400 table games and approximately 1,300 electronic gaming machines. The game selection mirrors MBS closely, with baccarat, blackjack, roulette, sic bo, craps, poker, and various other table games. The electronic gaming section includes a wide range of slot machines and electronic table games.
Gaming Areas: Similar to MBS, RWS divides its casino into mass gaming areas and premium gaming sections. The Crockfords Club is the premium gaming destination at RWS, offering an exclusive experience for high-net-worth players with private gaming rooms, dedicated hosts, and complimentary amenities. Membership to the Crockfords Club is by invitation only.
Table Minimums: Main floor table minimums at RWS are similar to MBS, typically starting at SGD 25-50 for popular games. Minimums may be lower during off-peak hours (weekday daytimes) and higher during peak periods (weekends, public holidays, and evenings).
Amenities: RWS offers extensive entertainment options beyond the casino, including Universal Studios Singapore, S.E.A. Aquarium, Adventure Cove Waterpark, and the Maritime Experiential Museum. Dining options range from celebrity chef restaurants to casual food courts. The resort also features six hotels of varying styles and price points.
MBS vs RWS Comparison
Here is a side-by-side comparison of Singapore's two casinos to help you decide which to visit:
| Feature | Marina Bay Sands (MBS) | Resorts World Sentosa (RWS) |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Marina Bay, downtown Singapore | Sentosa Island |
| Nearest MRT | Bayfront (CE1/DT16) | HarbourFront (NE1/CC29) + monorail |
| Casino Floor Size | ~15,000 sqm | ~15,000 sqm |
| Table Games | 500+ | 400+ |
| Slot Machines | ~1,600 | ~1,300 |
| Entry Fee (Locals) | SGD 150/day or SGD 3,000/year | SGD 150/day or SGD 3,000/year |
| Entry Fee (Foreigners) | Free | Free |
| Minimum Age | 21 | 21 |
| Dress Code | Smart casual | Smart casual |
| Operating Hours | 24/7 | 24/7 |
| VIP Programme | Paiza Club / Sands Premier | Crockfords Club |
| Best For | Downtown convenience, business travellers | Family resort visitors, leisure travellers |
Both casinos are world-class and offer comparable gaming experiences. The choice between them often comes down to location and convenience. MBS is ideal if you are staying in the city centre, attending a convention, or want a quick casino visit without travelling far. RWS is better if you are visiting Sentosa for its other attractions, are staying at a Sentosa hotel, or prefer a more resort-like atmosphere.
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Casino Exclusion Scheme
Singapore's Casino Exclusion Scheme is one of the most comprehensive player protection mechanisms in the world. It operates through three main pathways: self-exclusion, family exclusion, and automatic exclusion.
Self-Exclusion: Any person can voluntarily apply for a Casino Exclusion Order (CEO) that bars them from entering one or both of Singapore's casinos. Self-exclusion is typically sought by individuals who recognise they may have a gambling problem and want a structural barrier to prevent them from entering casinos. The application can be made through the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG). Once a self-exclusion order is in effect, the excluded person's identity is registered with both casinos, and they will be denied entry at the door. Attempting to enter a casino while under an exclusion order is a criminal offence.
Family Exclusion: Immediate family members — spouse, parent, child, or sibling — can apply for a family exclusion order against a relative they believe has a gambling problem. The application is submitted to the NCPG and reviewed by the Committee of Assessors. The person subject to the application is notified and given an opportunity to respond before a decision is made. Family exclusion orders are typically issued when there is evidence that gambling is causing significant harm to the individual or their family.
Automatic Exclusion: Certain categories of individuals are automatically excluded from casinos without the need for an application. These include undischarged bankrupts (persons who have been declared bankrupt and have not yet been discharged) and recipients of government social assistance (ComCare or other public assistance programmes). These automatic exclusions are designed to protect financially vulnerable individuals from the risks of casino gambling.
Visit Limits: As an alternative to full exclusion, individuals can apply for Visit Limitation Orders that cap the number of casino visits within a specified period. This option allows people to maintain some access to casinos while setting boundaries to prevent excessive gambling.
All exclusion and visit limitation orders are enforced through identity checks at casino entrances. Both MBS and RWS use facial recognition technology and NRIC/passport scanning to identify excluded individuals. The system is integrated across both casinos, meaning an exclusion order covers both properties.
What to Bring
Before visiting a Singapore casino, make sure you have the following items ready to ensure a smooth entry experience:
Identification (Mandatory):
Singapore citizens and PRs must present their NRIC (National Registration Identity Card) at the entrance. This serves dual purposes: verifying your age (minimum 21) and checking your entry against the exclusion database. Do not rely on your driver's licence — the NRIC is the required document.
Foreign visitors must present a valid passport. No other form of identification is accepted. Your passport will be checked for validity and to confirm your age. Work permit holders and other pass holders should bring their passport, not their work pass, although having both is advisable.
Entry Levy Payment (Locals Only): Be prepared to pay the SGD 150 entry levy at the entrance. Cash, NETS, and credit cards are accepted. If you have an annual membership, bring your membership card or be prepared to verify your membership at the entrance.
Budget and Payment Methods: Decide your gaming budget before arriving. Both casinos have cashier counters where you can exchange cash for gaming chips. Credit cards can be used to obtain chips at the cashier, though some banks may treat casino transactions as cash advances with associated fees. ATMs are available within the casino areas but may charge withdrawal fees.
Appropriate Attire: Both casinos enforce a smart casual dress code. Collared shirts, smart jeans or trousers, closed-toe shoes, dresses, and blazers are all acceptable. Avoid slippers, flip-flops, shorts, sleeveless shirts (for men), sportswear, and caps. For detailed guidance, see our MBS dress code guide.
Casino Etiquette
Whether you are a first-time visitor or a regular, understanding casino etiquette helps ensure an enjoyable experience for everyone. Here are the key rules and norms at Singapore's casinos:
Mobile Phones: Mobile phone use at gaming tables is generally restricted. You cannot use your phone while actively playing at a table game. Taking phone calls at the table is considered poor etiquette and may be prohibited by dealers. Photography and video recording are strictly prohibited on the gaming floor — this rule is enforced by security personnel. You can use your phone in non-gaming areas such as restaurants, lounges, and common areas.
Photography: Cameras and photography are strictly prohibited on the gaming floor at both MBS and RWS. This includes phone cameras, professional cameras, and any other recording devices. Security staff will ask you to put your phone away if they see you taking photos, and repeated violations can result in being asked to leave.
Tipping: Unlike casinos in Las Vegas and other American destinations, tipping is not customary or expected at Singapore casinos. Dealers are salaried employees and do not rely on tips. While small tips are occasionally given by VIP players as a personal gesture, there is no social expectation to tip, and you should not feel obligated to do so.
Drink Policies: Both casinos offer complimentary non-alcoholic beverages (tea, coffee, soft drinks, water) on the gaming floor. Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase at bars and restaurants within the casino. Some premium gaming rooms may offer complimentary alcoholic drinks for invited guests. Singapore's strict drink-driving laws (BAC limit of 0.35mg/l) should be kept in mind if you are driving home after your visit.
Table Game Etiquette: Wait for the current hand or round to finish before joining a table. Place your buy-in on the table rather than handing cash directly to the dealer — the dealer will count it in view of the cameras and exchange it for chips. Do not touch your bets after the dealer has announced "no more bets." If you are unsure about rules, ask the dealer — they are trained to assist players of all experience levels.
Smoking: Smoking is prohibited on the main gaming floors at both MBS and RWS, in line with Singapore's strict anti-smoking regulations. Designated smoking areas are available within the casino complex. Electronic cigarettes and vapes are also prohibited in non-smoking areas.
Operating Hours
Both Marina Bay Sands and Resorts World Sentosa casinos operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. There are no closing hours, holidays, or maintenance shutdowns for the main gaming floor. This round-the-clock operation caters to international travellers across different time zones and local players who prefer late-night or early-morning gaming sessions.
Peak vs Off-Peak Hours: While the casinos are always open, the atmosphere and conditions vary significantly by time:
Off-Peak (Weekday daytime, Monday to Friday, roughly 10 AM to 6 PM): Table minimums are typically at their lowest. The gaming floor is less crowded, and you will have an easier time finding seats at popular tables. This is the best time for beginners who want a less intense atmosphere.
Peak (Friday evenings, weekends, public holidays, and late nights): Table minimums increase, especially for popular games like baccarat and blackjack. The gaming floor is busier, and popular tables may have waiting lists. The energy level is higher, which many players enjoy. Premium rooms tend to be busier during peak hours.
Restaurant Hours: While the gaming floor operates 24/7, restaurants and dining outlets within the casino complex have their own hours. Most fine-dining restaurants close by midnight, but casual dining options and 24-hour eateries are available to fuel late-night gaming sessions.
For those who want the 24/7 casino experience without travelling to MBS or RWS, the best online casino Singapore platforms offer round-the-clock access to live dealer games and slots from any location. To understand the legal landscape of online gaming, refer to our guide on whether online gambling is legal in Singapore.
Frequently Asked Questions
Singapore citizens and permanent residents must pay a casino entry levy of SGD 150 per 24-hour visit or SGD 3,000 for an annual membership. This fee applies to both Marina Bay Sands (MBS) and Resorts World Sentosa (RWS). Foreign visitors with a valid passport enter both casinos for free.
No, tourists and foreign visitors do not need to pay any entry fee. Simply present your valid passport at the casino entrance for free entry. The SGD 150 daily levy or SGD 3,000 annual levy applies only to Singapore citizens and permanent residents.
The minimum age to enter a casino in Singapore is 21 years old. This applies to both Singapore citizens/PRs and foreign visitors at both Marina Bay Sands and Resorts World Sentosa. You must present valid ID (NRIC for locals, passport for foreigners) to verify your age at the entrance.
Yes, both Marina Bay Sands and Resorts World Sentosa casinos operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. However, some premium gaming rooms and specific areas within the casinos may have different operating schedules. Restaurant and lounge hours within the casino may also vary.
Yes, through the Casino Exclusion Programme. You can apply for self-exclusion voluntarily, or your family members can apply for a family exclusion order. Additionally, undischarged bankrupts and social assistance recipients are automatically excluded from casinos. The exclusion is enforced through identity checks at casino entrances.