The 2019 version of the Macao SAR Passport and the Macao SAR Travel Permit will be issued from 3 December 2019 by the Identification Services Bureau (DSI). This afternoon (16 October), DSI Director Ao Ieong U, DSI Deputy Director Lo Pin Heng, and Head of the Department of Travel Documents Kun Sin Yin presented the security features of the new travel documents and introduced relevant revised legal provisions and application arrangements to the media.
The current Macao SAR travel documents have been in use for over ten years since they were launched in 2009. In order to duly update the security features and design of the Macao SAR travel documents, and ensure they live up to the latest standards of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the DSI will issue the 2019 version of the travel documents this year.
The new Macao SAR travel documents adopt sophisticated anti-counterfeiting technologies. Laser perforation technology was applied to show the appearance of the holder and feature a tactile emblem of the Macao SAR and lotus pattern. The multi-colour UV printings are also applied. The chips they are embedded with are better encrypted. The overall design of the travel documents is cutting-edge and recognised worldwide, which makes the Macao SAR Travel Documents more reliable and internationally acceptable.
In terms of design, the front and back covers of the new Macao SAR travel documents remain unchanged. Inside the documents, patterns of Macao’s three landmark attractions, the Guia Lighthouse, the Ruins of St. Paul’s, and the A-Ma Temple, are matched by the images of three bridges. At the bottom of each page, there are connected patterns of the Great Wall and lotus flowers. A striking full-colour night view of Macao against a background of a starlit sky and fireworks is also visible under ultraviolet rays.
In order to simplify residents’ applications, from 3 December, applicants can choose to use photos taken on site. In addition to counter services and round-the-clock self-services, the DSI will also launch online services later this year for eligible residents to apply for the travel documents at home. Next year, relevant self-services will also be available to minors.
The issuance of the new Macao SAR travel documents will not influence the use of the current ones, which will remain valid for use until their expiration date. For the purpose of balancing the cost of materials, those applying on or after 3 December will be charged at MOP 430 for Macao SAR Passport (2019 version) and MOP 360 for Macao SAR Travel Permit (2019 version). Renewal application of the travel documents can be lodged within nine months prior to the expiration date.
Applications on an expedited basis will not be accepted from 2 to 3 December 2019 due to computer system updating for the issuance of the new Macao SAR travel documents. Also, self-service will be suspended from 11:00pm to 1:00am of the next day during 2 and 3 December. For relevant information or enquiries, please check official website (www.dsi.gov.mo) or the official DSI WeChat account, or call DSI at 28370777 or 28370888.
