Macau

Demonstrations and protests

It’s illegal to protest without approval from the Macau government. Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

Avoid protests, demonstrations and large gatherings.

Don't photograph, film or participate in protests or other acts that authorities may consider provocative.

If there are signs of disorder, move away quickly and seek shelter in a safe place.

Increased screening, including of digital devices, is possible for travellers crossing between Macau and mainland China.

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

To avoid the risk of violent unrest:

• avoid large gatherings and protests
• monitor the media for possible unrest and avoid those areas
• follow the advice of local authorities

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Terrorism is a threat worldwide. Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time. Be alert to possible threats, especially in public places. Terrorists may target tourist areas or other places frequented by foreigners and where large crowds may gather.

More information:

• Terrorism

Petty crime

There's little violent crime in Macau. You could encounter pickpocketing and street theft.

Thieves target tourist spots and crowded places such as crowded shopping areas, markets and casinos.

Take care of your belongings, especially in crowded places.

Drink spiking

Drink spiking can happen anywhere. Be alert to the potential risks. Pay attention when your drinks are being mixed. Stick to reputable venues and avoid homemade alcoholic drinks due to the risk of methanol poisoning. Get urgent medical help if you suspect you've been a victim.

To reduce your risk of drink spiking:

• be careful of people who approach you in bars, clubs and casinos
• don't accept drinks, food, gum or cigarettes from strangers or new friends
• don't leave food or drinks unattended

More information:

• Partying safety while overseas

Scams

Scams against travellers are increasing.

Criminals sometimes present themselves as people in need.

Scams can start via the internet. A person might offer you gift cards or money to help carry someone's luggage on an international flight. They may ask for your money, credit card or online bank account details.

Other reported scams involve:

• fake arrests
• property
• holiday club or timeshare schemes
• scratch lottery tickets
• foreign lottery schemes
• relationships
• people impersonating government officials

Be wary of strangers asking for your help.

Never carry anything for anyone you don't know and trust, especially when crossing international borders. There's a risk that criminals have hidden drugs or other illegal items inside.

To avoid becoming a victim of a scam:

• don't send money or give credit card or bank account details to anyone you don't know and trust
• thoroughly research any scheme or agreement before signing or paying money
• seek legal advice before signing any property contract

More information:

• Scams
• Scamwatch

Kidnapping 

Kidnapping can happen anywhere, anytime, including destinations that are typically at lower risk. The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

More information:

• Kidnapping

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

• Cyber security when travelling overseas 

Typhoons

Macau experiences typhoons and flooding of low-lying areas.

Local safety rules require businesses and transport services to close during typhoons or very heavy rain.

Authorities may delay or suspend flights and ferries into and out of Macau. Contact your travel operator or airline to find out about delays.

If there's a typhoon:

• monitor weather forecasts and plan accordingly
• know your hotel or cruise ship's evacuation plans
• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• follow the advice of local authorities

If there's a natural disaster or severe weather:

• follow the advice of local authorities
• monitor the news and other local information sources
• monitor the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
• keep in contact with friends and family

More information:

• Macao Government Tourism Office
• Macau Meteorological and Geophysical Bureau
• World Meteorological Organization Severe Weather Information Centre

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

Confirm:

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

More information:

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips (Healthdirect Australia)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Macau. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is 
• your required dosage 
• that it's for personal use 

More information:

• Medication
• Serviços de Alfândega de Macau (Only available in Portuguese or Chinese; for further enquiries, please contact the nearest Chinese Embassy or consulate)

Macau experiences very high humidity during summer, from May to October. Reduce physical exertion and outdoor activities on very humid days.

Air pollution

High levels of air pollution may trigger bronchial, sinus or asthma conditions.

If you have existing heart or breathing difficulties, reduce physical and outdoor activities on days with high pollution.

For up-to-date air quality reports, visit the Macau Meteorological and Geophysical Bureau.

Insect-borne diseases

Outbreaks of mosquito-borne illnesses, including dengue, sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from disease:

• ensure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Hand, foot and mouth disease

Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) is common. Severe outbreaks sometimes occur. Outbreaks usually start in March or April and peak in May. Sometimes, they last until October.

HFMD mainly affects children aged younger than 10 years, but adult cases, particularly in young adults, occur.

HFMD is spread by direct contact with discharges of infected people.

Practise good hygiene. Wash your hands carefully and frequently.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases occur sometimes. These include:

• tuberculosis 
• hepatitis 
• Japanese encephalitis

Seek medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

To protect yourself from illness drink only filtered water or bottled water from bottles with sealed lids.

The standard of medical facilities in Macau is adequate.

Private hospitals will ask to see proof of your travel insurance before treating you. They may ask you to guarantee payment or pay a deposit up-front.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated to Hong Kong. Medical evacuation can be very expensive. Ensure your insurance covers this.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

Macau's Law on Safeguarding National Security could be interpreted broadly. You could break the law without intending to. The law could be applied to activities that occurred outside Macau, including social media posts.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

The Australian Government can't intervene in the Macau judicial process.

If local authorities consider you a Chinese citizen, they may refuse access to Australian consular services. This will prevent the Australian Government from providing you with those services.

Drugs

Possessing illegal drugs of any kind, including marijuana, can result in penalties that include heavy fines and jail time.

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Weapons

Macau has strict laws around importing and possessing weapons. This includes stun guns, tasers and items that look like weapons, such as:

• replicas
• antiques
• toys
• fashion accessories

You must have a permit to import, possess or buy these items. This includes items sold in local markets. Apply in advance for a permit from local authorities.

Other laws

It's illegal to:

• join a public protest without Macau government approval
• take photos of military installations

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

More information:

• Staying within the law

While Macau’s law allows dual nationals of Chinese descent to register their Australian nationality, China’s Nationality Law prevents legal recognition of dual citizenship in Macau.
Local authorities may deny you access to Australian consular services if they identify you as a Chinese citizen.

This can happen even if you entered Macau on an Australian or other foreign passport and you:

• meet the conditions to be recognised as Chinese citizen
• haven't renounced your Chinese citizenship according to Chinese law
• haven't formally advised the Chinese authorities of your Australian citizenship
• continue to maintain a passport issued by the Macau Special Administrative Region or by China.

Authorities may not allow certain categories of Chinese citizens, such as state officials, to renounce their Chinese nationality under Chinese law.

Get professional legal advice if you're not sure of your citizenship status under Chinese law.

If you plan to enter mainland China or Hong Kong from Macau, travel on your Australian passport.

Local authorities may not allow consular access if you enter Macau on a travel document other than your Australian passport or if local authorities identify you as a Chinese national. 

More information:

• Dual nationals
• Travel advice for China
• Macao SAR Identification Department

LGBTQIA+ travellers

Most people in Macau accept or are indifferent to LGBTQIA+ travellers. However, community attitudes towards LGBTQIA+ people are generally more conservative than in Australia.

More information:

• LGBTQIA+ travellers
   

Visas

Macau is a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of the People's Republic of China. It has separate visa and entry administration to Hong Kong and mainland China.

You generally won't need a visa for a visit less than 30 days. However, entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. For details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules, contact or visit:

• Macau Immigration Service 
• Macau Government Tourist Office

If you need a visa, apply for it through your nearest PRC embassy or consulate.

The paper slip provided upon entry to Macau includes your date of entry and your latest departure date. The slip is needed at hotel check-in and when requested by local authorities. Replacement slips are available from the Macau Border Control Department or a police station.

Travel between Macau and mainland China

See the Embassy of the People's Republic of China for eligibility requirements and visa types.

If you plan to return to mainland China after visiting Macau, confirm your Chinese visa allows you to re-enter mainland China. 

If you've recently changed your passport, but your Chinese visa is still in the old passport, take both passports with you. Officials may ask you to present your previous passport and Chinese visa.

More information:

• Macau government website
• Travel advice for Hong Kong
• Travel advice for China

Validity

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport.

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service.

• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate.

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

More information:  

• LGBTQIA+ travellers

The currency in Macau is the Macanese Pataca (MOP).

Some shops also accept Hong Kong dollars and Chinese yuan.

Travellers in and out of Macau may need to declare Cash and Bearer Negotiable Instruments. Make a written declaration if you're carrying more than the equivalent of MOP120,000.

Credit cards are widely accepted in Macau.

More information:

• Macau Customs Service

Accommodation

Unlicensed guesthouses providing low-cost accommodation operate in Macau. They may not follow the safety standards set for licensed guesthouses. 

If you choose to stay in a guesthouse, check if it's licensed. 

More information: 

• Macau Tourism- Licensed Lodging

Driving permit

To drive in Macau, you need both:

• a valid international driving permit (IDP)

• your current Australian driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted)

If you stay in Macau longer than 14 days, you must register your driving licence with the Macau Public Security Police Force (CPSP).

Get your IDP in Australia before you leave.

You may not be covered by your travel and vehicle insurances if you drive without an IDP.

Road travel

Macau has a well-developed road network of standards similar to those of an Australian city.

Check you have adequate insurance before driving.

Find out about local road rules and practices. 

More information:

• Driving or riding
• Registration of Driving Licence

Motorcycles

Check if your travel insurance policy covers you when riding a motorbike.

To remain covered by your insurance, you may have to follow local laws.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis and ridesharing services

Use only licensed taxis or reputable limousine services. Arrange them through your hotel if you can. Always insist that the meter is used and be prepared to pay cash for taxis. Many taxis don't have seatbelts available for use in the back seat.

Rideshare services are illegal in Macau. Police have issued fines to drivers and passengers of unlicensed taxi services.

Public transport

Public buses are inexpensive and frequent. However, you may have difficulty finding them outside major tourist areas. Drivers generally have limited English.

More information:

• Macau Government Tourist Office — Local transportation
• Transport and getting around safely

Sea travel

Ferries are a common mode of transport from:

• Macau to
• Hong Kong and
• the Chinese mainland

Some cruise lines visit Macau.

More information:

• Travelling by boat
• Going on a cruise

Air travel

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Macau's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

• Air travel

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

Fire and rescue, medical, and police

Call any number for all emergency services:

• 999
• 110 
• 112

Always get a police report when reporting a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Australia doesn't have an embassy in Macau.

For consular assistance, contact the Australian Consulate-General in Hong Kong.

Australian Consulate-General, Hong Kong

23/F Harbour Centre, 25 Harbour Road

Wanchai, Hong Kong

Phone: (+852) 2827 8881

Fax: (+852) 2585 4457

Website: https://hongkong.consulate.gov.au/

Facebook: Australian Consulate-General Hong Kong and Macau

X: @AusCGHK

Instagram: @auscghk

Check the Consulate-General website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact the Consulate, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia