The new policy announced in November allows foreigners to apply for an exemption to enter Macau for exceptional reasons such as a family reunion, as long as they have been in China for at least 14 days prior to the date of entry.

However, the entry of non-residents is exceptionally authorized for reasons of public interest, with the new scheme for foreigners in China also allowing exemptions for attending an important business event, academic or other professional activities or hold a permit to enter the city for work purposes.

Currently, foreigners that have remained in Hong Kong or Taiwan or a foreign country in the previous 14 days can also request for an entry exemption for matters serving the city’s public interest and to ensure the proper operation of public services.

Novel Coronavirus Response and Coordination Centre Centre stated in today’s press conference that there have been 84 applications made for entry exemptions, involving 102 people, of which 26 are family members of Macau residents, 56 are foreign employees and their family members, and 20 are students or other people wanting to come to the SAR for study.

However, so far only six applications have been approved with the remaining applications still under review or waiting for additional documents.