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• Macao SAR Resident Identity Card

  1. Under what circumstances do cardholders need to replace their Macao SAR Resident Identity Card?
     〔Ans〕

     Ans: A) Macao SAR Resident Identity Card expired (ID card can be renewed 6 months prior to the expiration date. For applicants holding a contact-based electronic Macao SAR Resident Identity Card with permanent validity, they can replace their identity card if needed;

     B) Changes of personal information, such as first and last name, parents’ name, date of birth or place of birth;

     C) Status changed from Non-Permanent Resident to Permanent Resident

     D) Damage or loss

     Besides aforesaid circumstances, applicants can submit a request for replacement to the Director of the Identification Services Bureau for approval with other appropriate reasons. However, application can only be lodged upon approval.

  2. Is it possible to enter/exit the frontier of the Macao SAR to mainland China by presenting my application receipt of the Macao SAR Resident Identity Card?
     〔Ans〕

     Ans: Under the circumstances of first-time application or loss of Macao SAR Resident Identity Card, the applicant can enter/exit the Macao SAR frontier by holding the application receipt along with a valid document for entering the destination (such as Home Return Permit); Under the circumstances of replacement or renewal of identity card, the applicant can enter/exit the frontier by holding the former identity card until it is voided on the collection day of the new card. The applicant is also advised to bring along the receipt in case it is needed.

  3. Is it possible to enter Hong Kong by presenting my application receipt of the Macao SAR Resident Identity Card?
     〔Ans〕

     Ans: No, it is not possible. If necessary, applicants can enter Hong Kong with a “Visit Permit for Residents of Macao SAR to Hong Kong SAR”.

  4. What are the formalities for the replacement of Macao SAR Identity Card due to loss?
     〔Ans〕

     Ans: Procedure for replacement of the Macao SAR Resident Identity Card due to loss in Macao
     Applicants should first report the loss to the Macao Public Security Police Force. After that, they can apply for the replacement of the Macao SAR Resident Identity Card in person at the Identification Services Bureau with the loss report in which holder’s name, type of identity card and identity card number should be clearly stated.
     

     Procedure for replacement of the Macao SAR Resident Identity Card due to loss in Hong Kong
     (1) Applicant should report the loss to the Hong Kong Police and obtain a loss report in which holder’s name, type of identity card and identity card number should be clearly stated;
     (2) Apply for an official letter for the purpose of identity verification when returning to Macao from Hong Kong:
     - During office hours: apply at the Hong Kong Immigration Headquarters
     Hong Kong Immigration Headquarters
     Address: Immigration Tower, 7 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
     Hotlines: (00852)28246111, (00852)28777711
     - During non-office hours: apply at the Immigration Control Point at the Hong Kong-Macao Ferry Terminal in Sheung Wan.
     24-hour enquiry hotline: (00852)28246111
     (3) Applicants can apply for the replacement of the Macao SAR Resident Identity Card in person at the Identification Services Bureau with the loss report after coming back to Macao.
     

     Procedure for replacement of identity card and Home Visit Permit in Mainland
     (1) Applicant must report the loss to the local Public Security Bureau Office and obtain a loss report in which holder’s name, type of identity card and identity card number should be clearly stated.
     (2) Applicant can apply for a single-use Entry-Exit Permit of the People’s Republic of China in one of the following ways:
     - Applying at the local public security authority (e.g. Entry-Exit Administrative Division of Zhuhai Municipal Public Security Bureau). Other necessary identification documents are required for making the application (e.g. SAR passport, driving license, etc). The approving authorities will approach this Bureau to verify the applicant’s identity by fax for those who are not able to provide their identification documents.
     Entry-Exit Administrative Division of Zhuhai Municipal Public Security Bureau
     Address: 493, Xianghua Road, Xiangzhou District, Zhuhai
     Hotline: 0085-756-8640510
     - Authorizing the China Travel Service (Macao) Limited to lodge the application at the Visa Office of the Guangdong Provincial Public Security Department on behalf of the applicant. Loss report and other necessary identification documents are required for making the application. Identity verification will be conducted by the Visa Office of the Guangdong Provincial Public Security Department in Zhuhai via computer system for those who are not able to provide their identification documents.
     China Travel Service (Macao) Limited
     Address: Room 2115, 2 Floor, Arrival Hall at the right side of the Joint Inspection Building of the Gongbei Port (Before crossing the immigration counters)
     Hotlines: 0086-756-8152012; (00853)6601117
     (3) Applicant should apply for the replacement of the Macao SAR Resident Identity Card in person at the Identification Services Bureau with the loss report after coming back to Macao.
     

  5. What are the formalities if the lost Macao SAR Resident Identity Card is subsequently recovered after the application for a replacement?
     〔Ans〕

     Ans: The applicant must present the found card to the Identification Services Bureau.

  6. If the Macao SAR Identity card is lost outside Macao and the holder has already reported to the local police, is it necessary to report the loss again in Macao?
     〔Ans〕

     Ans: No, it is not necessary. However, the type of the lost document and the information of the holder should be stated clearly on the loss report. If the language of the loss report is not in one of the official languages of the Macao SAR, a translation should be provided.

  7. Does a Macao SAR Non-permanent Resident Identity card holder automatically acquire the status of Macao SAR permanent resident if the holder has resided in Macao for 7 consecutive years?
     〔Ans〕

     Ans: No, he/she does not. The holder must make the application in person at the Identification Services Bureau.

  8. Can a non-local worker become a Macao SAR permanent resident if he/she has stayed in Macao for 7 consecutive years?
     〔Ans〕

     Ans: No, he/she cannot. Persons who stay in Macao as a non-local worker are not considered as ordinarily residing in Macao.

  9. Is it possible to authorize a representative to apply for the Macao SAR Resident Identity card?
     〔Ans〕

     Ans: No, it is not possible. Applicants must apply for the Macao SAR Resident Identity card in person at the Identification Services Bureau. However, if the applicant is not able to come to the Identification Services Bureau in person, the applicant or his/her relatives can request for an external service by addressing a letter to the Identification Services Bureau for approval. This service is limited to Macao only and the service charge is MOP120.

  10. If parents cannot accompany their underage child to the Identification Services Bureau to apply for the Macao SAR Resident Identity Card, can they authorize another person to accompany their child to the Identification Services Bureau for lodging the application?
      〔Ans〕

      Ans: Yes, they can.The applicant’s parents have to submit a written request to this Bureau clearly stating the reason why they cannot accompany their child to lodge the application.In addition, the parents must provide this Bureau with an authorization letter which is signed according to their Macao SAR Resident Identity Card, proof of not being able to accompany their child to submit the application and photocopies of the Macao SAR Resident Identity Card of the applicant, parents and the authorized person.This Bureau will examine the application and reply the applicant in ten working days. For applicants who have an urgent need for speeding up the process under special circumstances (e.g. to visit relatives who is in critical conditions or to seek medical treatment overseas), this Bureau will handle the application depending on the situation.

  11. Is it possible to authorize a representative to collect the Macao SAR Resident Identity card?
      〔Ans〕

      Ans: The applicant can endorse the application receipt and sign according to the Macao SAR Resident Identity Card in order to authorize a representative to collect the document on behalf of the applicant (if applicant is under the age of 18, his/her legal representative is the one to endorse the application receipt). Except first-time application and loss of identity card, the applicant has to return the former identity card to the Identification Services Bureau at the time of collecting the new identity card. The authorized representative should also produce his/her valid identity document for verification when collecting the document on behalf of the applicant.

  12. What are the formalities for changing the holder’s name which is shown on the Macao SAR Resident Identity Card?
      〔Ans〕

      Ans:

      - For persons who were born in Macao, they should first alter their name at the Civil Registry (Conservatoria de Registo Civil). Upon approval, the applicants can proceed to the Identification Services Bureau to lodge the application for renewing the Macao SAR Resident Identity Card with the updated birth certificate.
      - For persons who were born outside Macao, they can fill out the “Alteration of Personal Data Application Form” which can be obtained at this Bureau or downloaded on our website: www.dsi.gov.mo. After that, they lodge the application at this Bureau with the completed “Alteration of Personal Data Application Form”, the original copy of relevant supporting documents and their original Macao SAR Resident Identity Card
      - For persons who have obtained residence authorization, they have to alter the personal data of their residence authorization at the Residence and Stay Affairs Department of the Public Security Police Force. After obtaining the updated residence authorization, the applicant can duly fill out the “Alteration of Personal Data Application Form” and submit it with the original copies of relevant supporting documents and their original Macao SAR Resident Identity Card to this Bureau.
      

                 After the application for altering personal data is approved, the applicant can lodge the application for renewing the Macao SAR identity card in person at this Bureau.

                 Appointment for submitting the application can be made on our website: www.dsi.gov.mo.

  13. Can a Macao resident add a Chinese name on the Macao SAR Resident Identity Card if there is only a foreign name on the document?
      〔Ans〕

      Ans:

      Applicants should first fill out the “Alteration of Personal Data Application Form” which can be obtained at this Bureau or downloaded on our website, and then submit it with the proof of having used the Chinese name formerly (if any) to this Bureau.
      For the convenience of the applicants, they can submit the application for adding a Chinese name and the application for renewing the Macao SAR Resident Identity Card at the same time.  However, the expected collection date of the identity card will also be postponed accordingly.

      Appointment for submitting the application can be made on our website: www.dsi.gov.mo.

  14. What kind of document should a Macao resident apply for if he/she needs to prove that he/she had ever added/altered his/her Chinese name?
      〔Ans〕

      Ans: The applicant can apply for a Certificate of Personal Data if he/she needs to prove the data that he/she provided in the registration of the Macao SAR Resident Identity Card. Appointment for submitting the application can be made on our website: www.dsi.gov.mo. Applicant can select “Other Certificates” for the type of document.

  15. What should an applicant do if he/she wants to add her spouse’s surname to the name registered on her Macao SAR Resident Identity Card?
      〔Ans〕

      Ans:

      (1) Marriage registered in Macao
      The applicant can bring along her Macau SAR Resident Identity Card, the original copy of marriage certificate on which the spouse’s surname has been added to the applicant’s name and the photocopy of the spouse’s identification document to lodge the application for replacing her Macao SAR Resident Identity Card at the Identification Services Bureau.
      Applicants can make an appointment on our website: www.dsi.gov.mo.
      (2) Marriage registered outside Macao (for applicant who was born in Macao)
      The applicant should first transcribe her marriage registration at the Civil Registry and apply for adding her spouse’s surname to her name. After obtaining the proof issued by the Civil Registry, the applicant can renew her resident identity card at the Identification Services Bureau with the proof from the Civil Registry, her resident identity card and her spouse’s identification document.
      Applicants can make an appointment through our website: www.dsi.gov.mo.
      (3) Marriage registered outside Macao (for applicant who was NOT born in Macao)
      The applicant can apply for altering her personal data at the Identification Services Bureau with her Macao SAR Resident Identity Card and the original copy of the marriage certificate which the applicant registered outside Macao. Such certificate should be already stated the applicant’s name with her spouse’s surname added. Otherwise, the applicant has to provide her valid identification document which is stated her name with her spouse’s surname added and the photocopy of her spouse identification document. After the application for altering personal data is approved, the applicant can lodge the application for renewing the Macao SAR Resident Identity Card in person at this Bureau.
      Applicants can make an appointment on our website: www.dsi.gov.mo.

  16. What are the formalities for changing the marital status which is stored in the chip of the Macao SAR Resident Identity Card?
      〔Ans〕

      Ans: Application can be handled in person or by family and friends, the formalities are as below:
      If the marital status is changed to married:

      • If the expectant spouses are holding valid electronic Macao SAR Resident Identity Cards, at the time of applying for marriage registration at the Civil Affairs Registry under the Legal Affairs Bureau, they can authorize the entity to provide DSI with the information related to their application for marriage registration and the original Marriage Registration Certificate that they have applied for. Within 60 days from the date of marriage registration, the spouses can use the designated self-service kiosks to update the marital status of their Macao SAR Resident Identity Cards.
      • If the above situation does not apply, application can be lodged at the counter and:
      • Duely complete the “Requerimento de Alteração de Identificação” (it can be downloaded from the website of DSI);
      • Applicant is required to produce the original Macao SAR Resident Identity Card;
      • A photocopy of the marriage certificate shall be submitted (The original document is required for verification);
      • A photocopy of the spouse’s identity card shall be submitted (If there is only a Chinese name registered on the the spouse’s identity card, a Romanized Cantonese transliteration will be registered according to law.);
      • A certified copy of a valid household registration transcript shall also be submitted for those applicants or their spouses who are originally from Japan or France;
      • A certified copy of a valid household registration transcript shall be submitted for those applicants or their spouses who are originally from Taiwan and fail to submit the marriage certificate issued by the Department of Household Registration.

      If the marital status is changed to divorced, application can be lodged at the counter and:

      • Duely complete the “Requerimento de Alteração de Identificação” (it can be downloaded from the website of DSI);
      • Applicant is required to produce the original Macao SAR Resident Identity Card;
      • A photocopy of the proof of divorce shall be submitted (The original document is required for verification);
      • If the marriage information is not recorded in DSI, the relevant marriage certificate shall also be submitted.

      If the marital status is changed to widowed, the applicant has to go through following formalities at the counter:

      • Duely complete the “Requerimento de Alteração de Identificação” (it can be downloaded from the website of DSI);
      • Applicant is required to produce the original Macao SAR Resident Identity Card;
      • A photocopy of the spouse’s death certificate shall be submitted (The original document is required for verification);
      1. If the spouse passed away in Macao, the applicant has to present the narrative certificate of death registration issued by the Civil Affairs Registry;
      2. If the spouse passed away in the Mainland, the applicant has to present the notarized death certificate/medical proof of death/proof of death with an official stamp issued by the Public Security Bureau or police station in the Mainland;
      3. If the spouse passed away overseas, the applicant has to present the death certificate issued by official authorities

      • If the marriage information is not archived in DSI, the applicant should also submit the relevant marriage certificate.

      Reminders:

      • Documents written in languages other than Chinese, Portuguese or English shall be accompanied by official translations.
      • Those who have applied for the change of marital status at the counter with complete documents can immediately update the personal data stored in the chip on the Macao SAR Resident Identity Card and collect the identity card. If the documents need further examination, the identity card will be temporarily kept at DSI until relevant formalities are finished, after which the identity card can be collected. Please refer to the timetable below for the corresponding collection time of the identity card:

      Time of Application	Time of ID Card Collection
      09:00~10:15	13:30
      10:15~14:30	17:00
      14:30~16:00	17:45
      Application for updating chip data of the identity card is not accepted after 16:00

       

       

       

       

      
      

  17. What are the formalities for updating other personal information (such as parents’ names, date of birth and place of birth) on the Macao SAR Resident Identity Card?
      〔Ans〕

      Ans: - Persons who are not holding the residence authorization document can fill in the “Alteration of Personal Data Application Form” which can be obtained at this Bureau or downloaded at our website: www.dsi.gov.mo . The application should be lodged at this Bureau with the original copies of relevant supporting documents and the Macao SAR Resident Identity Card of the applicant.
      - Holders of residence authorization documents should alter the personal data of the residence authorization document at the Residence and Stay Affairs Department of the Public Security Police Force. After obtaining the updated residence authorization document, the applicants can then request for the alteration of personal data at DSI by completing the “Alteration of Personal Data Application Form”. The application should be lodged with the original copies of relevant supporting documents and the Macao SAR Resident Identity Card of the applicant.
      After the application for altering personal data is approved, the applicant can lodge the application for renewing the Macao SAR Resident Identity Card in person at this Bureau. Applicants can make an appointment on our website: www.dsi.gov.mo.

  18. What are the formalities for changing the contact information of the Macao SAR Resident Identity Card?
      〔Ans〕

      Ans:

      Applicants can change their contact information of the identity card in the following ways:

      1. Duly complete an application form for alteration of contact information which can be downloaded from our website. After that, submit the completed form to this Bureau by post (Macao P.O. Box 1089) or by an authorized representative. However, the application cannot be submitted via email or fax.
      2. Go through the formalities at this Bureau in person with the original Macao SAR Resident Identity Card. Please note that applicants are required to obtain a number tag first and wait for their turn to lodge the application.
      3. Macao residents who are aged 18 or above and holding an electronic identity card can change the contact information for themselves and their underage children or persons under guardianship with the “Integrated Self-service Kiosk”.
      4. Go to DSI website and log in to the system with the “Common Access to Public Services of the Macao SAR” account to change the contact information of the applicants and their underage children or persons under guardianship. (The online service is not applicable to changing the contact telephone number in the resident identity record.)
      Applicants who lodge the application with above-mentioned self-services kiosks or on DSI website can make a one-time update on the address for other government departments including the Social Security Fund, Pension Fund, the Marine and Water Bureau, the Cultural Bureau, the Education and Youth Development Bureau, the Health Bureau and the Macao Post and Communications Bureau.

      After successful application, the contact information of the applicant will be updated in the following three working days and a notification will be sent to the applicant by SMS. Details about kiosk functions and locations, please refer to DSI website (www.dsi.gov.mo/kiosk_e.jsp). The application form for updating contact information can be downloaded on DSI website (www.dsi.gov.mo/formsdownload_e.jsp).

  19. If the online system for changing contact information shows that “Your children's information inputted cannot be verified”, what should be done?
      〔Ans〕

      Ans: If the system shows that “Your children's information inputted cannot be verified”, it is needed to confirm whether the information of the relationship between the minor and the minor’s father/mother/guardian already exists in the Macao SAR Resident Identity Card record of the minor. The contact information update can only be done after the relationship is verified. DSI had already launched the kinship verification services. For details about the kinship verification service, please refer to DSI website www.dsi.gov.mo/QAndA_e.jsp.

  20. What should the cardholder do if the chip is detached from the Macao SAR Resident Identity Card?
      〔Ans〕

      Ans: If the chip is detached from the identity card, the cardholder has to go through relevant formalities for replacement at the Identification Services Bureau in person.

  21. Does it require extra charges for the re-issuance of the identity card due to chip damage?
      〔Ans〕

      Ans: The cardholder can bring his/her identity card for examination at the Identification Services Bureau. It does not require extra charges for the re-issuance of the identity card due to the issue of chip quality.

  22. Can a cardholder enter Hong Kong if the chip of his/her Macao SAR Resident Identity Card is detached?
      〔Ans〕

      Ans: No, he/she cannot. The cardholder should replace his/her identity card as soon as possible. If there is a need to enter Hong Kong, he/she can apply for a “Visit Permit for Residents of Macao SAR to Hong Kong SAR”.

  23. What is the latest collection date of the Macao SAR Resident Identity Card?
      〔Ans〕

      Ans: If the identity card is not collected within 6 months from the date of issuance, the card will be destroyed. Therefore applicants are advised to collect the identity card as soon as possible.

  24. If the applicant has once possessed the Macao Identity Card issued by PSP or BIE, can he/she apply for the Macao SAR Permanent Resident Identity Card directly?
      〔Ans〕

      Ans: No, he/she cannot. The applicant should first lodge an application for the Certificate of Entitlement to the Right of Abode in the Macao SAR for verifying his/her right of abode in Macao. Regarding the application formalities of the Certificate of Entitlement to the Right of Abode in the Macao SAR, please visit our website www.dsi.gov.mo .

  25. Notes for Macao SAR Resident Identity Card (BIR) holders
      〔Ans〕

      Ans: (A) The BIR is embedded with an integrated circuit (chip), please keep it in a good condition: (1) Please keep your BIR in a plastic holder and remove the plastic holder before using your BIR. (2) Please do not place your BIR in high temperature environments, e.g. under the exposure to the sun or beside high heat stoves, etc. (3) Please do not bend or abrade your BIR, e.g. clean it with washing machines or put it in the back pocket of trousers alone, etc. If your BIR is damaged due to improper use, you will have to apply for a new BIR at your own expense.
      (B) The Macao SAR Resident card is the property of Macao SAR Government, please keep your BIR in safe custody. The replacement of BIR would cost you both money and time. If you lose your BIR, please report to the police at once.
      (C) The characteristic of your fingerprints are stored in the chip on the BIR. If your fingers are wounded, peeling, or their prints are unclear at the time of enrolling or verifying your fingerprint, you may have difficulties in using the fingerprint-verification facilities in the future. At that time, you will need to use substitute facilities which do not require fingerprint verification. For instance, if you cannot get access to the data in the chip by fingerprint-verification, you may input password to verify your identity instead of verifying fingerprint.
      (D) Please be aware of the expiry date on the BIR, and renew it within 6 months prior to the expiry date. However, holders of BIR which is valid for life do not need to replace their identity card, the date of validity is represented as “----” at the bottom left corner of the BIR.
      (E) The PIN letter is obtained together with the BIR. For security reason, please do not keep your BIR and the PIN letter (or the PIN) together.
      (F) If you change your address and phone number, please inform this Bureau as soon as possible.

  26. Can applicant who is holding a disability assessment registration card apply for exemption of application fee when applying for the Macao SAR Resident Identity Card?
      〔Ans〕

      Ans: Pursuant to the stipulations of Article 34 of Administrative Regulation No.23/2002, the Director of the Identification Services Bureau can exempt persons who are lack of financial capability from relevant application fees in accordance with the supporting documents provided by other government entities or the applicant. Therefore, persons who are holding a disability assessment registration card are exempt from relevant application fees provided that they declare themselves to be financial incapable. Application fees can be exempted upon approval of such request.

  27. Can an applicant apply for exemption of application fee for the Macao SAR Resident Identity Card when he/she is holding a receipt of Employment Registration issued by the Labour Affairs Bureau (DSAL)?
      〔Ans〕

      Ans: No. Applicants are request to submit receipts of Employment Registration issued by the Labour Affairs Bureau (DSAL) of the past 12 months’ to state a lack of financial capability due to long-term unemployment. They are also request to write and sign a declaration to declare their unemployment status and they acknowledge that they will commit criminal offences for making false declaration.

  28. When was the contactless electronic identity card first issued?
      〔Ans〕

      Ans: The Macao SAR Government has been issuing the Macao SAR contactless electronic identity card to Macao residents since 31 October 2013 and no longer issued the contact-based electronic identity card since then.

  29. Can Macao residents replace their identity card with the contactless electronic identity card prior to the expiry of their document?
      〔Ans〕

      Ans: Citizens can still use their current contact-based electronic identity cards until the expiry of their document. Holders of the contact-based electronic identity card can lodge the renewal application six months prior to the expiry of their identity cards. In accordance with relevant laws and regulations, expired contact-based electronic identity cards are considered as invalid. Therefore, persons who need to renew their identity card should lodge an application for the contactless electronic identity card timely.

  30. Do all Macao residents need to replace their contact-based electronic identity card with the contactless electronic identity card?
      〔Ans〕

      Ans: If the validity date is shown as “------” on the contact-based electronic identity card, it means that the identity card is permanently valid. The applicants can replace their identity card with the contactless electronic identity card if needed. (See Question 1 of the “Macao SAR Resident Identity Card” section).

  31. How can Macao residents renew their electronic identity card?
      〔Ans〕

      Ans:

      1) Residents can lodge the renewal application at the traditional counter of the Identification Services Bureau. In advance of lodging the application, the applicants have to make an appointment or obtain a number-tag in person at the Identification Services Bureau.
      2) Residents can lodge the application for renewing their PERMENANT resident identity card at the self-service kiosks. Appointment or number-tag is not needed for using the self-service kiosks. When lodging the application, applicants need to go through processes including reading identity card data, taking on-site photo, scanning identity card and photo, enrolling and verifying fingerprints and signing on the digital signature pad.

                 3) Residents can request on-site service from the Identification Services Bureau to renew their identity card. Applicants or their relatives can apply for the on-site service by letter or in person at this Bureau. Upon approval, this Bureau will send officers to the location (Macao only) provided by the applicant to complete the renewal application formalities.

  32. Who are eligible to use the self-service kiosks for renewing their resident identity cards? How is the application process?
      〔Ans〕

      Ans: Holders of the Macao SAR Permanent Resident Identity Card who reached the age of 25 or above on the latest issuance date of their identity card are eligible to use 24 hours self-service kiosk to go through the formalities for identity card renewal at any time. Other holders who are at the age of 18 or above, they can use the self-service kiosk to renew identity card in office hours. (If necessary, the applicants may need to have height measurement and ten digital fingerprint impressions). Eligible applicants can renew their resident identity card with the self-service kiosks as early as 6 months before it expires or after its expiry.
      Applicants need to follow the instructions given by the kiosks to go through the application process, including verifying and enrolling fingerprints, taking on-site photo, scanning identity card and signing on the digital signature pad. Besides, applicants can also choose to scan their own photo as the identity card photo. At last, applicants can make an electronic payment at kiosks or pay the fee at service counters in office hour to complete the application. The above-mentioned kiosks are not applicable to persons who need to modify their personal information (excluding address, telephone number, occupation and information of emergency contact person), persons who lost their document, interdicted persons or quasi-interdicted persons.
  33. Is there any changes in the design of the contactless electronic identity card?
      〔Ans〕

      Ans: The contactless electronic identity card adopts the original design of the contact-based electronic identity card but with a memory chip embedded in the card body.

  34. What are the changes in the information on the front of the contactless electronic identity card?
      〔Ans〕

      Ans:

      There is no change in the information on the front of the identity card. Due to the reason that the embedded chip does not occupy any space of the card face, it increases the usable space of the front of the identity card. Therefore, the information on the card face is arranged as follows:
      (1) Textual descriptions of personal information are added to the front of the contactless electronic identity card. For instance, “Surname”, “Name”, “CCC” (i.e. Name in Chinese Commercial Code), “Height”, “Date of Birth”, “Date of 1st Issuance”, “Date of Current Issuance” and “Date of Validity”.
      (2) The surname and the given name of the holder is displayed in their respective fields and no longer separated by “，” (i.e. comma).

  35. What are the strengths of the contactless electronic identity card?
      〔Ans〕

      Ans:

      (1) The contactless electronic identity card has advantages over the contact-based electronic identity card in various aspects.  Also, it provides added convenience and ease of use for the cardholder. With a memory chip embedded in the card body of the contactless electronic identity card, it can protect the chip from impact and damages from the environment, making the identity card more durable.

      (2) The security of contactless electronic identity card is further enhanced and the speed of reading the chip data is much faster than contact-based electronic identity card.

  36. After the issuance of the contactless electronic identity card, how is the usage and application of the new and the former electronic identity cards?
      〔Ans〕

      Ans: Both new and former electronic identity cards are applicable to all government entities and self-services. All related systems have been upgraded to be compatible with the contactless electronic identity card.

  37. Can contactless electronic identity card holders use the Automated Passenger Clearance System?
      〔Ans〕

      Ans: Yes, residents who have replaced their contact-based electronic identity cards with contactless electronic identity cards can use the automated passenger clearance system to enter or exit Macao.

  38. Do residents need to conduct enrollment again for using the Hong Kong e-Channel after replacing their contact-based electronic identity card with contactless electronic identity card?
      〔Ans〕

      Ans: For Macao residents who have enrolled for the Hong Kong e-Channel service, if they replaced their identity cards due to normal renewal, they do not need to re-enroll for using the Hong Kong e-Channel service. However, if they replaced their identity cards due to loss of identity card or alteration of personal information (such as holder’s name, date of birth or parents’names), re-enrolment is required after the replacement of Macao resident identity card.

• Macao SAR Travel Documents

  1. If an applicant is outside Macao, can he/she apply for the Macao SAR Travel Documents by post?
     〔Ans〕

     Ans: Yes. If the applicant is in other country or region, he/she can authorize a representative in Macao to obtain an application form and lodge the application to DSI on his/her behalf. The applicant can also download the application form from the “Postal Application Service” system of DSI.

  2. What travel document is needed if Macao resident wishes to travel to the Hong Kong SAR?
     〔Ans〕

     Ans: (1) Eligible Macao SAR permanent residents holding electronic Macao SAR Permanent Resident Identity Card can enter and exit the Hong Kong SAR as visitors without producing any other travel documents or filling in any arrival/departure card. Pursuant to the existing Hong Kong SAR immigration requirements, nationals of certain countries are required to obtain a visa in prior before entering the Hong Kong SAR. These individuals, though possessing a valid electronic Macao SAR Permanent Resident Identity Card, are still subject to prior assessment and approval in order to enjoy the abovementioned facilitations.
     (2) Chinese or Portuguese nationals holding a Macao SAR non-Permanent Resident Identity Card can apply for the “Visit Permit for Residents of Macao SAR to Hong Kong SAR” at the Identification Services Bureau in order to travel to Hong Kong.

  3. If a Macao resident travels to Hong Kong SAR, what is the maximum period of stay in Hong Kong SAR?
     〔Ans〕

     Ans: By presenting an electronic Macao SAR Permanent Resident Identity Card, the Macao SAR permanent resident is allowed to stay in the Hong Kong SAR as a visitor for a maximum period of 180 days provided that the immigration requirements are duly fulfilled. For a Macao SAR non-permanent resident entering Hong Kong with his/her «Visit Permit for Residents of Macao SAR to HKSAR», he/she is allowed to stay in the Hong Kong SAR as a visitor for a maximum period of 30 days provided that the immigration requirements are duly fulfilled.

  4. What is the validity period of a « Macao SAR Passport »?
     〔Ans〕

     Ans: The validity period of « Macao SAR Passport» is 10 years for holders aged 18 or above, and 5 years for holders aged under 18.

  5. Is it necessary to apply for a visa when traveling to Taiwan Region?
     〔Ans〕

     Ans: Macao residents can contact the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Macao for relevant visa details, tel: (853)28306289.

• Kinship Verification

  1. Who are eligible to use the service of kinship verification?
     〔Ans〕

     Ans: If information about the relationship between the applicant and the person concerned does not exist in the identity card record of the applicant, the applicant can lodge the application for kinship verification to this bureau in advance of going through other formalities (e.g. transfer of health care vouchers, proof of existence). However, the relationship of persons under the following circumstances have already been verified, they do not need to lodge the relevant application:

     1. For person who was born in Macao and whose parents were holding Macao resident identity card at the time of his/her birth, there is no need to verify the relationship with his/her parents;
     2. For person who has provided his/her spouse’s Macao resident identity card to DSI when applying for modifying the marital status to “Married”, there is no need to verify the relationship with his/her spouse;
     3. For person who has declared and confirmed the Macao resident identity card number of his/her parents and spouse at the time of applying for or renewing his/her Macao resident identity card, there is no need to verify the relationship with his/her parents and spouse.

     * For person who has successfully transferred the voucher to his/her parents or children in the Healthcare Subsidy Scheme of Year 2009 to Year 2017, there is no need to verify the relationship with his/her parents or children.

  2. What kind of relationship can be verified in the kinship verification service?
     〔Ans〕

     Ans: The kinship verification service is solely used for the verification of kinship between the applicant and his/her parents, children or spouse.

  3. How does the applicant lodge the application for kinship verification?
     〔Ans〕

     Ans: For Macao SAR Resident Identity Card holders who are 18 years old or above, they can:
     

     1. log in to the “Common Access to Public Services of the Macao SAR” account through the mobile application, and simply input the identity card num\ber of the person concerned when lodging the application.
     2. use the integrated self-service kiosks to lodge the application. Applicants have to use their original Macao SAR Resident Identity Card and input the identity card number of the person concerned.
     3. Applicants can also proceed to DSI located on the 1st Floor of the China Plaza, or DSI service counters located at the Macao Government Services Centre Areia Preta or the Macao Government Services Centre in Islands to go through the relevant formalities. When lodging the application, it is needed to present the original Macao SAR Resident Identity Card of the parent or legal representative and the underage applicant, and provide the Macao SAR Resident Identity Card number of the person concerned.

     For Macao residents who are under 18 years old, their application has to be lodged by their parent or legal representative on their behalf to the service counter at above-mentioned locations. When lodging application at the services counter, it is necessary provide the identity card of their parent or legal representative and the identity card number of the person concerned.
     Attention: DSI may request applicants to submit additional proof if needed.
     After successful application, the applicant will receive the verification result within five working days. Details about kiosk functions and locations, please refer to DSI website (www.dsi.gov.mo/kiosk_e.jsp).

  4. Can the applicant lodge the application for kinship verification for purpose other than transferring the vouchers?
     〔Ans〕

     Ans: Yes, he/she can. The information of the verified relationship will be archived into the Macao SAR Resident Identity Card record of the applicant and the persons concerned.

  5. How long does it take to process the kinship verification application?
     〔Ans〕

     Ans: DSI will notify the applicant of the verification result within five working days following the date of submitting the application and all required information by the applicant.

• Others

  1. Is it necessary to get a tag number in advance of using the services provided by the Identification Services Bureau?
     〔Ans〕

     Ans: Yes. Number tag can be obtained in the following ways:
     DSI (located at Avenida da Praia Grande N.o 804, Edf. China Plaza, 1.º Andar, Macao)

     1. Online ticketing and appointment (http://www.dsi.gov.mo/webservice_e.jsp);
     2. Telephone appointment (853-28370777 or 853-28370888);
     3. Self-service kiosk for ticketing and appointment;
     4. DSI ticketing counter (please note that number tags are limited and distributed on a first-come-first-serve basis.)

     Macao Government Services Centre (located at Rua Nova de Areia Preta N.º 52, Macao)

     1. Online appointment (https://www.csraem.gov.mo/csrbooking/#/index);
     2. Telephone appointment (853-28451515);
     3. Self-service ticketing kiosk;
     4. Ticketing counter (please note that number tags are limited and distributed on a first-come-first-serve basis.)

     Macao Government Services Centre in Islands (Centro de Serviços da RAEM nas Ilhas) (located at Rua de Coimbra, n.º 225, 3.˚ andar, Taipa)

     1. Online appointment (https://www.csraem.gov.mo/csrbooking/#/index);
     2. Telephone appointment (853-28421212);
     3. Self-service ticketing kiosk;
     4. Ticketing counter (please note that number tags are limited and distributed on a first-come-first-serve basis.)

  2. How long does Identification Services Bureau take to process the suggestions, comments or complaints?
     〔Ans〕

     Ans: Identification Services Bureau will follow up the suggestions, comments or complaints within 45 days.

  3. How many working days are needed to process for the email enquiries?
     〔Ans〕

     Ans: Identification Services Bureau will have the emails replied within 5 working days. Please note that due to the protection of the privacy of personal data, if there is any personal data involved in the enquiry, Identification Services Bureau will reply by letter.

  4. Can holders of Macao SAR Resident Identity Card print the personal particulars stored in the chip of the identity card at the Kiosk of Information and Services? Where are they located?
     〔Ans〕

     Ans: In order to print the personal particulars stored in the chip of identity card (e.g. other names of card holder, parents’ name, marital status and so on), Macao SAR Resident Identity Card holders can input the ordinary PIN (6-digit number) in the PIN letter of identity card to read the personal data in the chip of the Macao SAR Resident Identity Card. Location of the Kiosk of Information and Services can be found in the following website: http://www.cityguide.gov.mo/main.htm#e/kiosklist.

  5. What should the overseas spouse of Macao resident (except resident of Mainland China) do to apply for residence in the Macao SAR?
     〔Ans〕

     Ans: If the overseas spouse (except spouse living in the Mainland) of Macao resident who wishes to reside in the Macao SAR, he/she should apply for a “Residence Authorization” (Certificado de Residencia) at the Residence and Stay Affairs Department of the Public Security Police Force (Departamento para os Assuntos de Residência e Permanência) of the Public Security Police Force, and then apply for a Macao SAR Non-Permanent Resident Identity Card at the Identification Services Bureau with the receipt of “Residence Authorization”. Macao SAR Non-Permanent Resident Identity Cardholders can apply for a permanent one until they have ordinarily resided in Macao for 7 consecutive years. For further details about “Residence Authorization” application, please contact the Residence and Stay Affairs Department by their hotline: (853)2872 5488 or (853)2872 5499.

  6. What should a Macao resident do to apply for residence in Macao SAR on behalf of his/her spouse in the Mainland?
     〔Ans〕

     Ans: The applicant can make an enquiry to the Exit-Entry Administration Department of the Public Security Bureau of the People's Republic of China for details.

  7. What are the formalities if a Macao-born applicant who has migrated to Hong Kong and now wishes to apply for the re-issuance of Macao birth certificate?
     〔Ans〕

     Ans: For enquiries about Macao birth certificate, please contact Civil Registry (Conservatória do Registo Civil) located at Rua do Campo, nº 162, Edifício Administração Pública, 2º andar (Tel: (853)2855 0110).

  8. What documents are needed for the application for the Portugal Identity Card and Portugal Passport?
     〔Ans〕

     Ans: For details about Portugal Identity Card and Portugal Passport, please contact the Consulate General of Portugal in Macao located at Rua Pedro Nolasco da Silva nº 45 (Tel: (853)2835 6660).

  9. What documents are needed for the application for the Home Return Permit?
     〔Ans〕

     Ans: For details about the Home Return Permit application, please contact China Travel Service (Macao) Ltd. located at Avenida do Dr. Rodrigo Rodrigues, Edifício Nam Kwong, 1º andar (tel: (853)2870 0888).

  10. What are the formalities for the re-issuance of the PIN letter of the Macao SAR Resident Identity Card if it is lost?
      〔Ans〕

      Ans: In case the PIN letter is lost, holders of the Macao SAR Resident Identity Card can bring their Macao SAR Resident Identity Card to the Identification Services Bureau for resetting the password.

  11. Do holders of the People's Republic of China passport or foreign passport need any visa to enter/exit the Macao SAR?
      〔Ans〕

      Ans: For details about entering/exiting or temporary staying in the Macao SAR, please contact the Public Security Police Force at (853)2872 5488 or (853)2872 5499); Address: Travessa Um do Cais de Pac On, Edifício de Serviços de Migração, Taipa, Macao.

  12. Where can citizens find the kiosk for verifying the authenticity of their electronic identity card?
      〔Ans〕

      Ans: DSI has installed integrated self-service kiosks in various locations in Macao for citizens to verify the authenticity of their identity card and print out the relevant verification result. Location of the integrated self-service kiosk can be found in DSI’s website: www.dsi.gov.mo/kiosk_e.jsp.

  13. Which payment method is accepted by DSI?
      〔Ans〕

      Ans: Citizens are allowed to pay application fees with UnionPay QuickPass and Macau Pass at all self-service kiosks. Besides, they can also use other payment methods (such as cash, credit cards/debit cards issued by Bank of China Macau Branch or Banco Nacional Ultramarino) or MPay to pay application fees at service counters.

  14. If citizens need to prove his/her former name, is it possible to apply for the Certificate of Personal Data by using the self-service kiosk?
      〔Ans〕

      Ans: DSI introduced electronic application for the Certificate of Personal Data in 2016 to facilitate the relevant formalities. By using the self-service kiosk to lodge the application, citizens can request to state the visible information on the identity card, nationality, spouse’ name, parents’ name, date of first issuance and marital status on the certificate. However, it does not include the information which proves the change of name in the past. The application for the certificate of former names can be lodged at the service counter.