Is Poker Legal in Singapore?

Poker is a popular card game that has gained immense popularity over the years. However, the legality of poker varies from one country to another. In Singapore, the legal status of poker is quite complex, and there are several factors that determine whether playing poker is legal or not.

Firstly, it’s important to understand that gambling is illegal in Singapore. The Remote Gambling Act (RGA) was passed in 2014, which prohibits all forms of online gambling activities, including poker. However, there are some exceptions to this rule.

One of the exceptions is if you’re playing poker in a licensed casino. In Singapore, there are two integrated resorts that have casinos – Marina Bay Sands and Resorts World Sentosa.

These casinos offer a range of games including poker. So if you’re playing poker in one of these licensed casinos, then it’s perfectly legal.

PRO TIP:In Singapore, playing poker is illegal and can come with a fine of up to S$20,000 or even a jail sentence. However, online poker is allowed so long as it does not involve real money or monetary rewards.

Another exception is if you’re playing private games with your friends or family members at home. The RGA doesn’t prohibit social gambling activities as long as they’re held in a private setting and not for commercial purposes.

However, it’s important to note that even social gambling activities have some restrictions. For instance, only non-cash prizes can be offered as rewards for winning the game. This means that you can’t bet real money on a game of poker even if it’s just amongst friends.

Moreover, hosting public games or playing at unlicensed establishments is strictly prohibited under the RGA and can result in fines and/or imprisonment.

It’s also worth noting that the RGA applies only to online gambling activities. Therefore, if you’re playing live poker at a licensed casino or private setting with friends/family members without any form of online element involved, then it’s considered legal under Singaporean law.

In conclusion, Poker is legal in Singapore only when played within the confines of licensed establishments such as casinos or private settings with friends/family members without any form of online gambling involved. Any other form of poker playing is considered illegal and can result in penalties under the Remote Gambling Act.