Macau begins cash handout scheme with new 183-day stay requirement

Macau has commenced the distribution of its longstanding cash handout program on Tuesday, introducing a significant new rule: residents must have spent at least 183 days in Macau in 2024 to qualify for the cash handout.

Eligible permanent residents will receive MOP 10,000, while non-permanent residents will get MOP 6,000.

The government has prioritized certain groups for immediate payment.

Senior citizens aged 65 or above who registered for the Elderly Allowance, retired civil servants receiving pensions, and dependents of deceased public servants will receive funds via automatic bank transfer, provided they meet the new residency rule.

Other eligible recipients—including disability allowance beneficiaries, social welfare recipients, teachers receiving subsidies, and university grant students—will see deposits in their bank accounts within the next three days.

For civil servants without registered bank accounts, payments will be processed alongside their August salaries. Those receiving checks will have them mailed starting July 22, with priority given to individuals born in 1977 or earlier.

Residents who did not meet the 183-day requirement due to specific circumstances—such as studying abroad, working in mainland China’s Greater Bay Area, or being posted overseas—can apply for an exemption until December 31, 2028.

Macau’s Social Security Fund will review these cases before applicants receive their share.