On March 23, the Macao Special Administrative Region Government published a law on social security benefits for Macao residents in the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin, marking a significant milestone in the integration of the social security system.
Effective from March 24, the newly amended legislation is designed to safeguard the dual-tier social security rights of Macao residents living and working in Hengqin.
The amendment addresses a long-standing residency requirement that previously hindered residents moving between the two regions.
Under the existing framework, eligibility for voluntary social security contributions and government infusions into the Non-Mandatory Central Provident Fund required a physical presence in Macao for at least 183 days per year. The new law removes this barrier by categorizing time spent in Hengqin as time spent in Macao, provided the individual is residing, working, or studying in recognized educational programs within Hengqin. This extension also covers those working outside Macao to support dependents living in Hengqin.
Beyond residency requirements, the legal update introduces practical measures to streamline administrative processes for residents. Notably, medical certificates issued by recognized healthcare providers in Hengqin will now be accepted for sickness allowance applications under the Macao social security system.
Furthermore, the flexibility of the Non-Mandatory Central Provident Fund has been enhanced, doubling the allowed frequency of fund withdrawals from once to twice per year for eligible account holders.
These legislative changes represent a concerted effort to align the living environments of Macao and Hengqin, ensuring that social protections remain robust regardless of which side of the boundary a resident chooses to build their life. By addressing the practical needs of those pursuing careers, education, and entrepreneurship in the region, the new law solidifies the social security safety net and fosters a more seamless integration within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA).
For further information regarding these updates, please get in touch with the relevant authorities at 00853-28532850.
Reporter | Guo Chuhua
Photo | Hengqin Online
