Hiring Foreign Workers in Macau — FAQ

📌 Key takeaways: The three core steps are "apply for Employment Permit → apply for Entry Permit → obtain Blue Card and start work". The Employment Permit application is free; main costs are the worker's salary and the agency fee. The Blue Card is the legal ID for working; contracts run up to 2 years and can be renewed 30–45 days before expiry; the employer must meet accommodation obligations (housing or ≥ MOP 500/month allowance, Administrative Regulation No. 88/2010). The whole system is governed by Law No. 21/2009 (Employment of Non-Resident Workers Law).

💡 Two Key Terms

What is a Blue Card? The Blue Card is the Non-resident Worker Identity Card — the legal proof that a foreign worker is allowed to work in Macau. The worker can only start work after it is issued.

What is the Employment Permit? Before hiring a worker or worker, the employer must apply to the Macau Labour Affairs Bureau (DSAL) for a "Foreign Worker Permit" under Law No. 21/2009 (Employment of Non-Resident Workers Law). Only after approval can the entry permit and Blue Card be arranged.

Q: How long does it take to hire a foreign worker?
A: Usually a few weeks to one or two months. Nationalities requiring a pre-arranged visa (e.g. Vietnam) take a bit longer.

Q: How much does it cost?
A: The Employment Permit application is free. Main costs are the worker's salary (per contract), the agency fee, and the accommodation the employer must legally provide (housing or ≥ MOP 500/month allowance, Administrative Regulation No. 88/2010). For a quote, WhatsApp.

Q: What is a Blue Card?
A: The Blue Card is the Non-resident Worker Identity Card — the legal ID for working in Macau; the worker starts only after it is issued.

Q: How long is the contract, and when to renew?
A: Up to 2 years, renewable 30–45 days before expiry.

Q: How do I renew the Blue Card?
A: Renewing the Blue Card means renewing the stay permit. We assist 30–45 days before contract expiry, including updating the Employment Permit, medical exam (if required) and documents.

Q: Do Vietnamese nationals need a pre-arranged Macau visa?
A: Yes. They must obtain a Macau visa via a Chinese embassy/consulate abroad before entering to work. We assist.

Q: Does the employer have accommodation obligations?
A: Yes. Under Administrative Regulation No. 88/2010, the employer must provide suitable accommodation or pay each worker at least MOP 500/month allowance.

Q: How do I start the application?
A: Simply WhatsApp +853 6566 8809 or visit the Contact page and tell us your needs — we'll advise and quote.

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Related pages: Foreign Workers by Nationality ｜ Blue Card Renewal ｜ Employment Tips Blog ｜ Contact