Yes — foreigners can enter Marina Bay Sands Casino free of charge. You need a valid foreign passport and must be aged 21 or older. Singapore citizens and Permanent Residents must pay a casino entry levy before entering.
Singapore Casino Entry Requirements at a Glance
| Marina Bay Sands (MBS) | Resorts World Sentosa (RWS) | |
|---|---|---|
| Entry fee (foreigners) | Free | Free |
| Entry levy (citizens/PRs) — daily | SGD 150 | SGD 150 |
| Entry levy (citizens/PRs) — annual | SGD 3,000 | SGD 3,000 |
| Minimum age | 21 | 21 |
| ID required (foreigners) | Valid foreign passport | Valid foreign passport |
| Operating hours | 24 hours, 7 days a week | 24 hours, 7 days a week |
| Dress code | Smart casual (no singlets, shorts, or slippers) | Smart casual |
| Cameras | DSLRs/interchangeable-lens cameras prohibited | Photography discouraged inside |
Who Can Enter Marina Bay Sands Casino?
Any person aged 21 or older may enter Marina Bay Sands casino. The key distinction is between foreigners and Singapore residents:
- Foreign visitors — free entry upon presenting a valid foreign passport. No levy, no fee.
- Singapore citizens and Permanent Residents — must pay the casino entry levy (SGD 150 per day or SGD 3,000 per year) before entering.
- Work permit holders — treated as foreign visitors; free entry with a valid passport.
- Persons on the exclusion list — barred from entry regardless of nationality.
ID Requirements for Foreigners
A valid foreign passport is the primary and most reliable document to present at the casino entrance. Casino staff use your passport to verify both your identity and your foreign status (confirming you are not subject to the entry levy). Other government-issued photo IDs may be accepted in some circumstances, but carrying your physical passport is strongly recommended to ensure a smooth entry.
Note: A photocopy or phone screenshot of your passport is not accepted — you must present the original physical document.
Dress Code at Marina Bay Sands Casino
Marina Bay Sands enforces a smart casual dress code for all casino visitors. The casino reserves the right to refuse entry to anyone not dressed appropriately.
What is not allowed:
- Singlets and tank tops (sleeveless shirts)
- Casual shorts
- Flip-flops, hotel slippers, or open-toed sandals
- Beach or pool attire
- Hotel robes
- Backpacks (large bags should be left at your hotel)
What is recommended:
- Collared shirts or neat tops
- Long trousers or smart chinos (required for men)
- Closed-toe shoes or smart footwear
- Smart dresses or skirts for women
In practice, enforcement can vary, but dressing smartly avoids any risk of being turned away at the door — particularly for Singapore citizens and PRs, where staff tend to apply the policy more strictly.
Bag Check and Camera Policy
All visitors are subject to a security check on entry, including bags and personal belongings. Large bags should be left at your hotel; only small bags and handbags are permitted inside the gaming floor. ATMs and bag check facilities are available outside each casino entrance.
DSLR cameras and any camera with an interchangeable lens are strictly prohibited on the gaming floor and must be checked in. Smartphones may be used, but photography near gaming tables or directed at staff is discouraged. Inside Resorts World Sentosa, photography is similarly restricted — keep your phone on silent and avoid photographing the gaming floor.
Understanding the Casino Entry Levy System
What Is the Entry Levy?
The Casino Entry Levy is a charge imposed on Singapore citizens and Permanent Residents by the Singapore Government. It is not a tax on winnings — it is a fee simply to enter the casino premises. The levy was introduced as a social safeguard to discourage excessive gambling among residents.
Current rates (applicable at both MBS and RWS):
- Daily levy: SGD 150 per 24-hour period
- Annual levy: SGD 3,000 per year (unlimited visits)
The levy is non-refundable and non-transferable. Payment can be made at the casino entrance or online. If a patron on a daily levy purchases a new levy within 30 days, any unused portion from their previous levy may be carried forward.
Entry Requirements and Restrictions
All visitors — foreign or local — must be at least 21 years of age to enter. Persons who have been placed on the casino exclusion list (either voluntarily or by a family member or court order) are barred from entering. All visitors are subject to security checks upon entry and exit.
Singapore’s Premiere Casino Destination
The Marina Bay Sands Casino, often referred to as MBS Casino, is part of an integrated resort complex located at 10 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore. Owned by Las Vegas Sands Corporation, this luxurious casino opened its doors in 2010, representing a US$5.7 billion investment. Situated at the heart of Singapore’s Central Business District, it stands as a premier entertainment destination in Asia.
The complex offers over 2,500 hotel rooms and suites, an extensive selection of restaurants, a theatre, luxury shopping, and the iconic Sands SkyPark infinity pool perched 57 storeys above the city.
The casino itself features nearly 500 gaming tables, 30 private gaming rooms, and around 1,600 jackpot machines. Popular games include Baccarat, Roulette, Blackjack, Poker, and various slot machines. Complimentary beverages are provided on the gaming floor.
Overseeing the Gambling Industry: Key Institutions
The Role of the Gambling Regulatory Authority
The Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA) oversees Singapore’s casino industry and ensures operators like Marina Bay Sands adhere to strict licensing, compliance, and responsible gambling requirements. The GRA administers the entry levy system and supports casino exclusion programmes to protect vulnerable individuals.
Ensuring Fair Play and Protecting Consumers
The GRA requires casinos to offer responsible gambling programmes, including voluntary visit limits, deposit limits, and self-exclusion options. Patrons or their family members can apply to have an individual excluded from both MBS and RWS casinos through the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG).
Historical Context: The Evolution of Gambling in Singapore
Early Beginnings: Traditional Forms of Gambling
In Singapore, gambling has been part of the culture for centuries. Traditional forms such as cockfighting, card games, and lottery-type games called “tikam-tikam” were prevalent during the early days, usually played during festive occasions and informal gatherings as entertainment and social bonding.
The Modern Era: Introduction of Casinos
The shift towards modern gambling began in 2010 with the opening of two Integrated Resorts (IRs): Marina Bay Sands and Resorts World Sentosa. These IRs were strategically planned to boost Singapore’s economy and tourism sector, providing approximately 35,000 direct and indirect jobs. Besides casinos, the IRs offer hotels, restaurants, shopping centres, convention centres, theatres, museums, and theme parks.
The Rise of Online Gambling Platforms
As technology advanced, the best gambling sites grew quickly. These platforms offer casino games, sports betting, and other wagering options accessible through computers and mobile devices. Singapore has enacted strict regulations to manage online gambling activity.
Controversies and Public Opinions on Gambling
The Ethical Debate: Pros and Cons
The debate surrounding gambling at Marina Bay Sands Casino has long involved ethical considerations. Proponents argue that gambling provides significant economic benefits — increased tourism and tax revenues. Opponents point to social issues including addiction, financial harm to families, and the potential for money laundering.
Government’s Stance and Regulatory Measures
The Singapore Government has implemented strict regulations including the entry levy system, casino exclusion programmes, and active enforcement against money laundering. The approach aims to balance economic interests with social responsibility — encouraging tourism while protecting residents.
The Societal Impact of Casinos in Singapore
Economic Contributions: Tourism and Employment
Singapore’s casino industry has significantly contributed to the nation’s economy, attracting foreign visitors and driving employment across hospitality, entertainment, and retail sectors.
Social Implications: Addiction and Crime Rates
While casinos bring economic benefits, gambling addiction remains a concern. The Singapore Government’s social safeguards — including the entry levy and exclusion programmes — aim to mitigate harm. Marina Bay Sands has also been scrutinised over anti-money laundering compliance, underscoring the ongoing need for regulatory oversight.
Before you go…
Marina Bay Sands also offers plenty of family fun and fine dining, not just gambling. We have put together fifteen of our favourite things to do at Marina Bay Sands.
Can Foreigners Enter Marina Bay Sands Casino? – Frequently Asked Questions
Can foreigners enter Marina Bay Sands casino?
Yes, foreigners are allowed to enter Marina Bay Sands casino free of charge. They must present their valid foreign passport for identification upon entry and must be at least 21 years old.
Can work permit holders access the casino?
Work permit holders can access the casino as long as they have their valid passport with them for identification purposes. They are treated as foreign visitors and are not subject to the entry levy.
What are the entry fees for Singaporeans and PRs?
Singapore citizens and Permanent Residents are required to pay a casino entry levy of SGD 150 for a daily pass or SGD 3,000 for an annual pass. This levy applies at both Marina Bay Sands and Resorts World Sentosa.
What is the minimum age to enter the casino?
The minimum age to enter any casino in Singapore — including Marina Bay Sands and Resorts World Sentosa — is 21 years old. This applies to all visitors regardless of nationality.
What is the minimum bet at MBS casino?
Minimum bets at Marina Bay Sands casino vary by game and table. Typically, minimum bets start from as low as SGD 5 for certain slot machines and table games, though premium tables may have higher minimums. Always check the specific table for its posted minimum bet.
What are the operating hours of the casino?
Marina Bay Sands casino is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Resorts World Sentosa casino is also open 24 hours a day.
What games are available at MBS casino?
Marina Bay Sands casino offers nearly 500 open gaming tables, 30 private gaming rooms, and around 1,600 jackpot machines. Popular games include Baccarat, Roulette, Blackjack, Poker, and a wide variety of slot machines.
Are passports required for entry to the casino?
Yes, a valid physical passport is required for foreign visitors entering Marina Bay Sands casino. Photocopies or digital images are not accepted. Your passport verifies both your identity and your foreign status, confirming you are exempt from the entry levy.
What is the dress code at Marina Bay Sands casino?
Smart casual attire is required. Singlets, sleeveless tops, casual shorts, flip-flops, slippers, and beach or pool attire are not permitted. Men should wear long trousers and closed-toe shoes. The casino management reserves the right to refuse entry for non-compliance.
