Self-Exclusion in Singapore: How NCPG Exclusion Schemes Work

NCPG self-exclusion allows an individual to block themselves from one or more regulated gambling activities in Singapore. The safeguards cover the casinos operated by Resorts World Sentosa and Marina Bay Sands, jackpot machine rooms in private clubs, and Singapore Pools online betting. Applicants must be at least 21 years old. NCPG states that self-exclusion takes immediate effect after submission and remains in force until it is successfully revoked by the Council.

There is no automatic expiry after a fixed period. NCPG states that an individual may apply to revoke self-exclusion only after remaining on the safeguard for at least one year, and the exclusion remains in force until the revocation is successfully completed. NCPG may require additional procedures as part of the revocation process, which can include a gambling self-assessment and, depending on the outcome, online psycho-education or counselling.

NCPG self-exclusion can cover Singapore’s two casinos, jackpot machine rooms in private clubs and Singapore Pools online betting. The exact scope is reflected in the self-exclusion application. NCPG describes these measures as social safeguards designed to help people stop or limit gambling activity in the regulated areas covered by the schemes.

A spouse, child, parent or sibling can apply for a Family Exclusion Order against a family member whose gambling has caused serious harm to the family — historically defined by Singapore authorities as gambling irresponsibly for not less than three months without regard for the family’s needs and welfare. NCPG may issue a Provisional Family Exclusion Order while the full application is being considered if it is satisfied that serious harm exists and further harm is imminent. The application is reviewed by a Committee of Assessors, and the respondent is given an opportunity to consent or object to the order.

Singapore also has a Third Party Exclusion Order and Visit Limit framework. NCPG describes these safeguards as applying to financially vulnerable Singapore citizens and permanent residents who visit local casinos or have poor credit records. NCPG can require relevant individuals to provide financial information and may impose either a visit limit or an exclusion order after assessment by its Committee of Assessors. A Third Party Exclusion Order can cover casinos, jackpot machine rooms in private clubs and Singapore Pools account-related services.

Singapore also has statutory exclusions that can apply without an individual applying for self-exclusion. For example, people receiving certain government social assistance or subsidy schemes can be prohibited from entering casinos and jackpot machine rooms and from accessing Singapore Pools account-related services. Other statutory exclusion categories also exist under Singapore’s gambling laws. The exact scope and duration depend on the underlying legal status and applicable provision.

The National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1800-6-668-668 provides information and assistance for people experiencing gambling-related problems and their families. NCPG also provides a webchat service, currently listed as available daily from 8am to 11pm. These support services are separate from the formal exclusion application processes, so someone can seek help without first applying for an exclusion.

NCPG’s exclusion schemes are designed around the gambling activities covered by Singapore’s regulated framework: the local casinos, jackpot machine rooms in private clubs and Singapore Pools online betting. They do not create a self-exclusion mechanism that can be imposed on offshore gambling operators. Singapore generally prohibits gambling activities unless they are authorised, licensed or exempted, and Singapore Pools is the only operator licensed to provide remote gambling services in Singapore. Website and payment blocking measures are also used against illegal remote gambling services.