Casino Entry Levies and Controls at MBS and RWS Key Takeaways
Singapore citizens and permanent residents (PRs) must pay a casino entry levy before entering the casinos at Marina Bay Sands (MBS) or Resorts World Sentosa (RWS) to discourage casual or excessive gambling.
- Casino Entry Levies and Controls at MBS and RWS include two payment types: a SGD 150 daily levy valid for 24 hours, and a SGD 3,000 annual levy valid for 12 months.
- Additional controls like the National Self-Exclusion Scheme, visit limits, and enforcement checks help reinforce responsible gambling practices.
- You can pay the levy online, at kiosks in the casinos, or via AXS machines, but you must present your NRIC or FIN card each time.
What You Need to Know About Casino Entry Levies and Controls at MBS and RWS
Under the Casino Control Act, every Singapore citizen and permanent resident aged 21 years or older must pay a casino entry levy before entering the casino floor at MBS casino levy and RWS casino levy collection points. This levy is non-refundable and applies per person per entry or per year, depending on your choice. The government introduced these Singapore casino controls to limit the social harm of gambling by placing a financial barrier on entry. Tourists and foreign visitors are exempt from this levy. For a related guide, see 7 Essential Features of the Gambling Control Act Every Online.
Legal Framework Behind the Levy
The Casino Control (Entry Levy) Regulations 2009 mandate that locals pay the levy before entering the casino gaming area. The levy is not a tax on winnings but an upfront fee that funds responsible gambling initiatives and regulatory enforcement. If you skip paying, you risk prosecution — the casino will deny entry or you may face a fine up to SGD 10,000, a prison term of up to 12 months, or both.
Two Types of Casino Entry Levy: Daily and Annual
When you purchase a casino entry levy Singapore ticket, you choose between two durations based on how often you plan to visit. Below is a quick comparison:
| Levy Type | Cost | Validity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daily Levy | SGD 150 | 24 hours from purchase | Occasional visitors (once a month or less) |
| Annual Levy | SGD 3,000 | 12 months from purchase | Frequent players (more than 20 visits per year) |
How the Daily Levy Works
The daily levy grants you a single 24-hour entry window. If you leave the casino and return before 24 hours, you must pay again. You can buy it on the day of your visit or up to 30 days in advance. If you decide to enter after a few drinks or on a whim, you pay the same cost — no discounts for shorter stays.
How the Annual Levy Works
The annual levy covers unlimited entries for 12 months from the date of purchase. It is a flat fee irrespective of how many times you visit. For someone who enters more than 20 times a year, the annual levy works out cheaper than paying the daily rate each time. However, the levy does not automatically renew — you must manually renew it before it expires.
Control Measures Beyond the Levy
Singapore casino controls extend far beyond the entry fee. The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) operates several schemes that work alongside the casino entry levy to promote responsible gambling.
Entry Limits and Visit Caps
At the point of levy purchase, you can also set a voluntary entry limit, such as a maximum of 12 visits per year. Once you hit that cap, the system blocks your levy purchase for the rest of the year. This is not mandatory, but it is a powerful tool for those who want to self-manage their gambling frequency.
National Self-Exclusion Scheme
Singaporeans and PRs can voluntarily ban themselves from all casinos (MBS and RWS) for a minimum of one year, extendable up to forever. During the exclusion period, you cannot pay a levy or enter. If you try to enter, your NRIC will flag you at the door, and you may be escorted out or fined. Excluded individuals can also request a ban for family members through a third-party exclusion application.
Enforcement and Penalties
Casino security and the Casino Regulatory Authority (CRA) conduct random ID checks at entrances and on the gaming floor. If you are caught without a valid levy, you face penalties as described earlier. Additionally, if you purchase an annual levy but lose your NRIC and fail to produce it on demand, you may be denied entry until you obtain a replacement. These MBS casino levy and RWS casino levy enforcement measures ensure compliance and deter abuse. For a related guide, see FreeSpinsSingapore.com Review Process: 5 Proven Research Steps.
How to Pay Your Casino Entry Levy
Paying the casino entry levy Singapore is straightforward, but you must do it before you step onto the casino floor. Choose one of these methods:
- Online via the CRA e-Service Portal — Log in with your Singpass, select the levy type, pay by credit card or eNets, and print or save the receipt. The levy is linked to your NRIC number, so you don’t need to carry the receipt physically. However, it’s wise to keep a digital copy.
- At AXS or SAM Kiosks — Visit any AXS or SAM machine island-wide. Scan your NRIC, choose the levy type, and pay by cash or NETS. The machine prints a receipt; keep it until you leave the casino.
- On-Site at the Casino — Both MBS and RWS have dedicated levy payment kiosks near the main entrance. You can pay with cash, NETS, or credit card. The process takes less than two minutes.
Step-by-Step: Paying Online
If you prefer the online method, here is a simple walkthrough:
- Go to the CRA e-Service portal (link below in Useful Resources).
- Log in with your Singpass (requires 2FA).
- Select “Purchase Entry Levy” and choose Daily or Annual.
- Enter your details and confirm the levy period.
- Pay using Visa, Mastercard, or eNets. The levy is activated immediately.
Tips for Responsible Gambling at MBS and RWS
Beyond paying the casino entry levy, staying in control of your gambling habits is essential. Here are practical steps you can take:
Set a Budget and Stick to It
Decide how much you are willing to lose before you enter. Once that limit is reached, walk away. Treat the levy as part of your entertainment cost — if you are not comfortable losing the levy amount plus potential losses, reconsider visiting.
Use the Voluntary Visit Limit
When you purchase your levy, request a voluntary visit cap. For example, set a limit of six visits per year. Once you hit six, the system blocks you automatically — no willpower needed.
Know the Signs of Problem Gambling
If you find yourself visiting more often, chasing losses, or lying about your time at the casino, it may be time to seek help. The NCPG helpline (1800-6-668-668) is confidential and free.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced visitors sometimes slip up. Avoid these errors related to Casino Entry Levies and Controls at MBS and RWS:
- Forgetting to bring your NRIC. You cannot enter without it, and levy payment is linked to your ID number.
- Buying an annual levy for a single visit. Unless you plan to return many times, the daily levy is more cost-effective.
- Not renewing your annual levy before it expires. The system does not auto-renew, so set a reminder on your phone.
- Trying to enter during a self-exclusion period. The system will catch it, and you will face penalties.
Useful Resources
For official information and to purchase your levy online, visit:
- Casino Regulatory Authority (CRA) — Official Levy Information and Payment Portal — the authoritative source for all levy rules, payment methods, and self-exclusion applications.
- Marina Bay Sands — Casino Entry Levy Page — detailed guidance on levy payment on-site and contact details for the MBS casino.
Frequently Asked Questions About Casino Entry Levies and Controls at MBS and RWS
Can I buy a casino entry levy at any AXS machine?
Yes, you can purchase both daily and annual levies at any AXS or SAM kiosk in Singapore using your NRIC or FIN card.
Is the casino entry levy refundable if I don’t enter?
No, the levy is non-refundable once purchased, even if you change your mind or are denied entry for other reasons.
Do tourists need to pay the casino entry levy ?
No, the levy applies only to Singapore citizens and permanent residents. Foreign tourists can enter without paying any levy.
Can I use my annual levy at both MBS and RWS?
No, the levy is specific to the casino where you purchased it. You must buy a separate levy for each casino if you wish to visit both.
What happens if I lose my NRIC and cannot produce it at the casino?
You will be denied entry until you present a valid NRIC replacement. You may also need to re-purchase your levy if the old one was linked to a lost card.
Can I pay the levy for someone else?
Yes, you can purchase a levy on behalf of another person using their NRIC number, provided the person is present to collect the receipt or the payment is done online with their Singpass.
How long does the annual levy last?
The annual levy is valid for 12 months from the exact date and time of purchase. It does not automatically renew.
Is there a limit on how many times I can buy the daily levy?
No, you can purchase the daily levy as often as you wish, but you must pay each time before entering. However, if you set a voluntary visit limit, the system may cap your purchases.
What are the penalties for entering without a valid levy?
You face a fine of up to SGD 10,000, imprisonment of up to 12 months, or both. The casino may also ban you from future entry.
Can I self-exclude from one casino but not the other?
No, self-exclusion under the National Self-Exclusion Scheme applies to both MBS and RWS simultaneously.
Do I need to show my levy receipt every time I enter?
You typically do not need to show the receipt because the levy is linked to your NRIC. However, you may be asked to produce it during random checks.
Can I pay the levy using foreign currency?
No, the levy must be paid in Singapore dollars (SGD). On-site kiosks accept cash, NETS, and major credit cards.
Is the levy considered a tax deduction?
No, the casino entry levy is not tax-deductible. It is a personal expense related to gambling access.
What age must I be to pay the levy and enter?
You must be at least 21 years old. The casino checks your age at the door in addition to the levy requirement.
Can I apply for a refund if I bought the annual levy but decided to self-exclude midway?
No, levies are non-refundable even if you later enter a self-exclusion program. You can, however, request a prorated refund on a case-by-case basis if you have a valid reason (e.g., medical emergency), but the casino is not obligated to grant it.
Do I need a levy to enter the casino hotel or restaurants?
No, the levy is only required to enter the casino gaming floor. Hotel lobbies, restaurants, shops, and entertainment areas are open to all without a levy.
Can I purchase an annual levy in installments?
No, the full SGD 3,000 must be paid upfront. Partial payments are not allowed.
Will my annual levy work if I lose my NRIC and get a replacement?
Yes, the levy is tied to your identity, not the physical card. Once you obtain a new NRIC, the levy remains valid under your new ID number.
Can I check how many times I have used my annual levy?
Yes, you can log into the CRA e-Service portal with your Singpass to view your levy transaction history and remaining validity.
Is there a grace period if my annual levy expires while I am inside the casino?
No, you must have a valid levy for the entire duration of your visit. If your levy expires while you are inside, you must exit immediately or purchase a new one before continuing.
