Visas are not required for the following :
a) Nationals of Australia, Austria, Brazil, Canada, Finland, India, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Norway, Philippines, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Switzerland, Thailand, United States of America, and countries of European Community for a stay of up to 20 days,

b) Hong Kong Residents for a stay of up to 90 days. All other nationals should arrange for visa entry upon arrival in Macau, except those from countries that do not have diplomatic relations with Portugal, that need prior arrangements.

Customs

Arriving visitors are not usually bothered with customs formalities, except perhaps a routine check. There is a 5% import duty on importation of electrical applicances and equipment.

On departure, there are no export duties on any article such as antiques, gold, jewellery, radio, cameras, etc. However, Hong Kong customs will allow visitors only one quart bottle of wine and 50 cigarettes duty free.

Climate

The climate in Macau ranges from moderate cold to hot, with an average temperature of just 20oC (69oF). The humidity is high with an average range between 73% and 90%.

Population and Language

95% of the population is Chinese, whereas Portuguese contributes 3% of the population. The remaining 2% comes from others.

Portuguese and Chinese are the official languages of Macau. Cantonese is naturally the dominant speaking Chinese dialect, but Mandarin is also widely spoken. English is spoken by the trade, commerce and tourist services.


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Religions

There is a complete freedom of worship in Macau. The main religions are Buddhism, Catholicism and Protestantism.


Health

International Inoculation Certificates are not normally required unless cholera has been detected either in Macau or Hong Kong or in the areas visited before arriving in Macau.

Water and Electricity

Water is treated according to international standards, and tap water is considered safe but there is a trace of chlorine odour. Like Hong Kong and China, Macau's electric system is 220V, AC 50 Hz. Electricity outlets accept British type round or square three pin plugs.

Media Information

Macau broadcasts its own TV and radio programs in Chinese and Portuguese. Likewise, the newspaper dailies and weeklies are published for both language markets. English language newspapers and periodicals from Hong Kong are readily available in central Macau and major hotels.

Tourist information are available from the Tourism Department which locates at the Leal Senado Square. There are also information counters located at the Ferry Terminal, the Guia Lighthouse, and the Monte Fort.