Step-by-step manual
Self-exclusion in South Africa
South Africa has a national register of excluded persons kept by the National Gambling Board. You start the process with a licensed operator, either a casino, bookmaker or betting site, which provides the forms and sends them to the provincial licensing authority and the NGB. Once registered, you are barred from all licensed gambling for at least six months, and the exclusion can be lifted only after that period and on proof of counselling with the NRGP. Licensed operators must refuse entry, close accounts and stop marketing. Illegal online casinos are not bound, so blocking tools matter.
- Scheme
- National Register of Excluded Persons
- Type
- National register
- Minimum
- 6 months
- Cost
- Free
The steps
- 1
Approach a licensed operator
Ask the security department of a licensed casino or the customer support of a licensed bookmaker or betting site for the self-exclusion forms. Staff can explain the process.
- 2
Bring identification
Provide your South African ID document or passport. Venues usually take a photograph so staff can recognise you.
- 3
Complete and sign the forms
The operator sends your forms to the provincial licensing authority and the National Gambling Board, which records you on the national register.
- 4
Contact the NRGP
Call 0800 006 008 for free counselling. Counselling is part of the process and is required if you later want the exclusion lifted.
- 5
Expect at least six months
Once excluded, you cannot gamble with licensed operators for a minimum of six months. If you try, operators can refuse you entry and you may face trespass charges.
- 6
Block illegal sites
Install gambling blocking software and ask your bank to block gambling transactions, as illegal online casinos are not bound by the register.
- 7
Lifting the exclusion
After six months you can apply to have the exclusion lifted, but only if you show you attended counselling with NRGP treatment professionals.
Before you start — what to know
- The register covers all licensed gambling, including casinos, bookmakers, betting sites and limited payout machines.
- Illegal online casinos, though prohibited, remain accessible and ignore the register.
- Third-party exclusion by family members is possible in some provinces through the courts or the provincial board.
- Counselling through the NRGP is free and confidential.
Make it stronger: add more barriers
Frequently asked questions
Is online gambling legal in South Africa?
Online sports and horse racing betting with provincially licensed bookmakers is legal. Online casino games, including slots and poker, are prohibited under the National Gambling Act 2004.
How do I self-exclude?
Ask a licensed operator for the self-exclusion forms. You will be added to the national register and barred from all licensed gambling for at least six months.
Can I cancel my exclusion?
Only after six months, and only if you show you attended counselling with the NRGP.
Where can I get free help?
Call the NRGP toll-free on 0800 006 008 for free counselling and treatment referral.
Procedures can change. Always follow the instructions of the official scheme or regulator. We2Bet is not affiliated with any self-exclusion scheme. Last reviewed October 2026.