Macau Responsible Gambling Policy Framework
As the world's largest gaming center, Macau has been actively promoting the Responsible Gambling system since 2004, and officially established the "Gaming Coordination Committee" (hereinafter referred to as the Committee) in 2012, dedicated to overseeing problem gambling prevention work. Macau's responsible gambling system includes multiple aspects: regulatory control, public education, self-exclusion programs, and social support services.
Macau Residents Entry Restrictions
As mentioned above, Macau residents cannot enter casinos for more than 14 days per month. This is a basic administrative protection measure, enforced through electronic record systems at each casino. Residents who exceed the limit will be refused entry.
Self-Exclusion Program
What is Self-Exclusion?
The Self-Exclusion Program allows individuals to voluntarily apply to casinos to have themselves added to an "Exclusion List" for a permanent or specified period (typically 1 year, 3 years, or permanently). The casino system will identify and refuse entry to excluded individuals.
How to Apply
Macau residents can apply for self-exclusion through the following methods:
- Apply to any of the six major concessionaires: Visit the casino customer service desk or VIP department, fill out an application form, and provide identification documents
- Apply through the Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau (DICJ): Contact the regulatory body to submit an application
- Online application: Some casinos provide online self-exclusion application portals
Once a self-exclusion application is submitted, casinos are obligated to add the applicant to the system within a specified timeframe (typically within 48 hours) and notify the other six casino groups.
Withdrawing Self-Exclusion
Self-exclusion applicants cannot revoke or suspend their self-exclusion during the exclusion period. They must wait until the exclusion period expires before applying for removal, and the removal process follows specified procedures and includes a cooling-off period.
Third-Party Exclusion
If a family member has problem gambling behavior, a spouse or relative can apply to the Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau for a "third-party exclusion order," requesting the casino to prohibit the person from entering the premises. The application must provide relevant documentation proving the impact of problem gambling behavior on the family.
Problem Gambling Support Organizations
Caritas Macau
Caritas Macau is the primary social service organization for problem gambling in Macau, providing individual and family counseling, gambling cessation groups, emergency assistance, and referral services. They operate the "Gambling Addiction Recovery Center" which offers professional gambling cessation counseling for those in need.
Mental Health Center
The Mental Health Center under the Macau Health Bureau provides clinical assessment and treatment services for problem gambling, including individual psychotherapy and family therapy.
Social Welfare Bureau
The Social Welfare Bureau provides financial assistance, crisis intervention, and referral services to families affected by problem gambling.
Problem Gambling Helpline
- Gaming Coordination Commission 24-hour Hotline：853-2833 1313（Free）
- Caritas Macau Helpline：853-2852 6161
- Social Welfare Bureau Hotline：853-2823 5601
Responsible Gambling Measures in Casinos
Pursuant to the Gaming Law, all six major concessionaires are required to post problem gambling warning information, place responsible gambling promotional materials, and provide helpline information within their casinos. Casino staff receive training on identifying signs of problem gambling and have the responsibility to provide referral information to guests in need.
Responsible Gambling Advice for Visitors
1. Set a budget limit beforehand and never exceed it. 2. Only use surplus entertainment funds for gambling; never borrow money to gamble. 3. Set time limits to avoid prolonged continuous gambling. 4. Do not treat gambling as a way to make money; view it as entertainment consumption. 5. If you experience emotional distress, stop immediately and seek support.
How to apply for Macau's Self-Exclusion Program?
Macau residents can apply for self-exclusion at the guest services desk of any of the six major concessionaire casinos, or through the Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau. Complete the application form and provide identification documents, which will take effect within 48 hours and notify all casino systems.
Can self-exclusion be revoked?
Self-exclusion cannot be revoked during the exclusion period. Removal can only be applied for after the exclusion period expires (1 year, 3 years, or permanent), and there is a cooling-off period in the removal process. Permanent exclusions are generally irrevocable.
What are the problem gambling helplines in Macau?
Gaming Coordination Committee 24-hour toll-free helpline: 853-2833 1313. Macau Caritas helpline: 853-2852 6161. Both provide services in Chinese and Portuguese, and operate around the clock.
How can family members help a loved one with problem gambling behavior?
You can apply for a "third-party exclusion order" through the Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau, or contact Macau Caritas (853-2852 6161) or the Social Welfare Bureau (853-2823 5601) for counseling and referral services.
How is the monthly entry limit enforced for Macau residents?
Casinos track Macau residents' monthly entry frequency through electronic record systems. Once the 14-day limit is exceeded, the system automatically denies residents entry, with data shared across casinos.
Are visitors (non-Macau residents) protected by responsible gambling measures?
Non-Macau residents can also voluntarily apply for the self-exclusion program, and casinos are obligated to treat them equally. Visitors are not subject to the 14-day monthly entry limit, but casinos have a responsibility to provide problem gambling information and referral services.
