Living in Macau: the ultimate expat guide
Everything you need to know for a successful life in Macau.
Former Portuguese colony, Macau is one of mainland China's special administrative regions. Contrasting with Hong Kong, it is nicknamed the "New Las Vegas" thanks to its highly developed economy, which is mainly based on gaming. Macau also has a business-friendly environment.
Living in Macau will allow you to enjoy quality living in a extraordinary fusion of cultures and ancient traditions with modernism.
Good to know:
What is Macau best known for? Definitely, casinos and extravagant gambling ' the city's gambling 'income' is seven times higher than the profits of 'The Strip' in Las Vegas.
Geography
Located to the South of mainland China, Macau is 60km away from Hong Kong and comprises the Macau Peninsula and the islands of Taipa and Coloane. Macau was once an island but has eventually become a peninsula with the connecting sandbar turned into a 5.2km isthmus ' the Cotai Strip.
Macau borders the Chinese city of Zhuhai: the main border is known as Portas do Cerco (Barrier Gate). The region's highest point is Alto de Coloane (170.3 metres high), while most of the territory is flat. Due to Macau's dense population and rapid urban development, it has no forests or farmland.
Good to know:
Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge is currently under construction ' the 50km link will allow for easier communication between the three cities.
Climate
Macau's climate is subtropical, with hot humid, summers and relatively mild winters. The most 'difficult' months are from June to September, when the temperatures can rise above 30 °C (86°F) during the day. Plus, this is also the rainy season with exceptionally high humidity and a strong possibility of typhoons. January and February are drier and much cooler, with the average daily temperature under 20°C (68°F). The best times to visit Macau are the months of October through December.
Economy
Macau is one of China's most economically prosperous regions. The service sector (mainly hospitality, tourism and casinos) makes up over 90% of Macau's GDP and offer 70% of employment. As the only place in China where gambling is legal, the city attracts loads of tourists from the Mainland as well as abroad, and the gaming sector, as well as gambling-related taxes, make up over 80% of the government's revenue.
The region has also benefited from global trade and investment as a free port. Due to low taxation, a well-developed infrastructure and an efficient entrepreneurial environment, Macau has attracted a lot of foreign investment.
Population
Macau is the most densely inhabited region in the world with the region's population reaching over 0.6 million people in 2016.
The majority of the population (over 95%) is Chinese, mostly Cantonese and Hakka, with the remainder of the population being of Portuguese or mixed descent. Macau has two official languages: Cantonese Chinese and Portuguese. There is a small but expanding expat population in Macau, with most foreign professionals working in the tourism and hospitality sectors.
Government
Macau is China's Special Administrative Region. The State Council of the People's Republic of China is in charge of the region's foreign policy and military defence, while Macau retains its own monetary, legal, immigration and customs systems. The head of Macau's government is the Chief Executive of Macau (currently Fernando Chui Sai On).
National holidays and festivals
Macau celebrates most of the same holidays as in Mainland China: Spring Festival (celebrated in winter according to the lunar calendar), Tomb Sweeping Day (April 4th), Labour Day (May 1st), National Day (October 1-3) and so on. Additionally, there are several western holidays like Christmas, Easter and others.
Key facts
Browse by category
Visas
All you need to know on work visas, work permits, working holiday visas and residence permits to live and work in Macau.
Work
Dive into the Macau labour market, legal framework and tips on how to find a job in Macau.

Finding work in Macau
Despite its small territory, Macau is a popular destination for expats to live and work. Known for its highly developed tourism and entertainment ...
Accommodation
Explore real estate or temporary rentals in Macau. Find out more about renting or buying a house or a flat, real estate agents, leases and rental agreements.

Accommodation in Macau
Macau is one of China's most interesting and popular regions. With a mix of Chinese and Portuguese cultural influence, it's a popular destination for ...
Study
Universities, training courses, student visas, registration procedures: all you need to know about being an international student in Macau.

Study in Macau
Located in the heart of Pearl River Delta, just a step away from Hong Kong, Macau is an exciting destination for young people to explore. A ...
Health care
Understanding the healthcare system in Macau: public and private health system, health insurance...
Bank
Navigate the banking system in Macau: how to choose a bank and open a bank account.
Tax
All you need to know about income tax, the tax system and filing your taxes as an expat in Macau.

The tax system in Macau
Often called the “Las Vegas of Asia", Macau has come to be considered as an offshore tax centre for businessmen and investors thanks to ...
Transport
From public transports to renting or buying a car, explore the best options to getting around in Macau.

Travelling around Macau
Macau has a well-developed transportation system, and you should have absolutely no trouble conveniently getting around the city. From public buses ...
Driving
Essential information on driving requirements in Macau, driver's license exchange and international permits.

How to drive in Macau
Though Macau has a very well-developed transportation system, if you plan to stay in the region for long, you may want to have the freedom of driving ...
Removal
Moving to Macau? Find useful information and tips to organize your move.
Communications
Internet and phone providers, plans, and everything you need to stay connected in Macau.

Phones and internet in Macau
When travelling to a foreign country, you will want to stay in touch with friends and family back home. Luckily, when living in Macau communication ...
Leisure
Sports, leisure, culture and other activities expats can enjoy in their spare time in Macau.

Leisure activities in Macau
Macau is a small territory of just over 30 square kilometres, and China's Special Administrative Region. Despite the city's notably small size, it ...
Everyday life
Eager to discover what life in Macau looks like? Here's a taste.

Childcare and family activities in Macau
If you plan to move to Macau with children, the question of education and recreation for them will, naturally, come up. Read on to find out more ...
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