Persons intending to travel from Hong Kong to Macao must hold a nucleic acid certificate issued within 24 hours of intended arrival, proving they have tested negative for COVID-19 infection. The rule takes effect after 6am on Friday (7 August).

The latest step is in view of the increasing number of infection cases reported in Hong Kong, and aims to safeguard public health in Macao.

Those who fail to present such a certificate might be denied entry to Macao.

Operators and drivers of transportation serving Hong Kong-to-Macao routes should refuse carriage to anyone not in possession of the necessary nucleic acid certificate. Any operator or driver breaching this requirement risks punishment as outlined by law.

Under current rules, those arriving in Macao having set off from Hong Kong, are still required to undergo a 14-day period of medical observation in a designated hotel.

In addition, the Government’s Novel Coronavirus Coordination and Response Centre announced today that the fee for each nucleic acid test will be lowered to 120 patacas, from 180 patacas, with effect from 12 August.

Test appointments relating to 12 August will be available for online reservation (https://eservice.ssm.gov.mo/rnatestbook) from Friday.

Any initial nucleic acid test is free for each Macao ID holder or non-resident worker. For any subsequent tests that are scheduled to take place before 12 August, the cost is 180 patacas per test. For subsequent tests performed after 12 August, the cost per test will be 120 patacas.