Macau Travel Risk

Reconsider travel to Macau SAR due to a limited ability to provide emergency consular services and arbitrary enforcement of local laws.

Reconsider travel to Macau SAR due to a limited ability to provide emergency consular services and arbitrary enforcement of local laws.

• Reconsider travel due to limited ability for the U.S. government to provide emergency consular services. There are travel restrictions imposed on U.S. diplomatic personnel.
• Reconsider travel due to arbitrary enforcement of local laws.
• U.S. government employees must follow the policies established by their Department or Agency regarding official or personal travel to China, including to Macau SAR.

The U.S. government has a limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Macau SAR. This is due to China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs travel restrictions on U.S. diplomatic personnel.

Even in an emergency, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs requires all U.S. diplomatic personnel, including those accredited to Macau SAR, to apply for and receive visas before entering Macau SAR. This can take a week or longer. That delay can significantly limit the U.S. government’s ability to offer timely consular services in Macau SAR.

This travel advice covers the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR). For mainland China, see travel advice for China.

Dual Chinese-British nationality

Macao does not recognise dual nationality. If you have both British and Chinese nationality, the local authorities may treat you as a Chinese citizen, even if you enter Macao on a full “British citizen” passport. If this is the case, the British Consulate-General may not be able to offer you consular help.

If you have formally renounced Chinese citizenship, carry evidence that you have done so.

See guidance on nationality in China.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Macao

Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Macao, attacks cannot be ruled out.

Crime

Protecting your belongings

Crime levels are low but pickpocketing and other street crime does happen. You should take particular care of:

• passports, credit cards and money in crowded areas
• your belongings when checking out of hotels
• your wallet and other valuables when visiting casinos late at night

Laws and cultural differences

Safeguarding National Security Law

You could face criminal charges if you take part in activities that the authorities believe threaten national security. This includes activities in and outside the Macao SAR, including in the UK. The Safeguarding National Security Law (NSL) outlines the types of activities that are illegal, such as preparing for or carrying out treason, secession or subversion against the central government.

The police have the right to access an individual’s social media and private communications to gather evidence of NSL crimes.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

Do not become involved with drugs. Possession of drugs can lead to imprisonment.

Taking photos in secure areas

Do not take photos of military installations.

Risk level

Macao - Exercise a high degree of caution

Exercise a high degree of caution in Macao due to the risk of arbitrary enforcement of local laws.

Crime

Petty crime such as pickpocketing and purse snatching occurs, particularly:

• at the airport
• on public transportation
• in casinos
• in main shopping areas and markets
• in hotel lobbies
• on crowded streets
• at tourist attractions

While in Macao:

• be vigilant in crowded locations
• don't carry large sums of money
• ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times

Fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. When using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when others are handling your cards
• use ATMs located inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overseas fraud

Demonstrations

Demonstrations are illegal without prior approval from the local government.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

If you participate in or are witness to a demonstration, you may be subject to scrutiny and severe legal action.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Don't film or take pictures of demonstrations
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)