In a bold decision by the Macau government, lawmakers have announced that from September 1 (Thursday), visitors from only 41 countries, including Australia, the United States, Japan, and Korea will be allowed to enter in the country.

To note, India has not been put on the list, which will restrict the Indians from not being able to enter the country. Apart from India, several other Asian countries, including Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan, are also not on the list.

As per order no. 166/2022 issued by the Chief Executive of Macau, it repeals the prohibition of entry for non-residents. In accordance with this directive, the Health Bureau has drawn up the latest entry regulations, which will allow residents of only 41 countries to enter Macau. However, they will need to go through a seven-day quarantine period as per the Covid-19 protocols in the country.

The 41 countries are Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, United Kingdom, Brunei, Canada, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Korea, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Singapore, Slovak Republic, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand and the United States.

It must be noted that the country closed its border on 17 March 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic, and they have remained closed for almost 30 months since.

According to the Health Bureau, “Holders of valid passports from the 41 countries mentioned above may enter Macau from countries and regions other than Hong Kong, Taiwan and Mainland China.”

It added, “Foreign passport holders are still required to present a negative nucleic acid test certificate at the time of boarding the plane, vehicle or ship and at the time of entry, while those entering Macau from countries and regions other than Hong Kong, Taiwan or Mainland China are required to hold a confirmation of hotel booking for isolation in Macau, a certificate of booking for routine nucleic acid testing during the isolation period, and undergo at least 7 days of intensive medical observation in isolation and 3 days of self-health management upon entry.”