Macao Major Investment: The MOP 15 Million Threshold Explained

MOP 15 million: expressly listed as assessment factor 6

IPIM's published assessment criteria contain six factors; factor 6 expressly states "investment of no less than MOP 15 million". This is a written threshold in official documentation — not a rumour or a market estimate.

How the MOP 15 million is counted

• Composition: operating fixed assets, operating expenses and costs
• Capital not owned by the applicant is not counted
• Inventory held for sale is not counted

Major investment plans are typically operated through a company incorporated in Macao; for a public overview of the incorporation procedure, see Ted International (macautitan.com).

The other five factors: weighed together, not "money alone"

The official note says these factors will be "mainly, but not exclusively, considered". In other words, MOP 15 million is one necessary threshold; approval depends on the factors weighed together and rests with the official assessment.

• Industry sector
• Raising sector technology level and competitiveness
• Contribution to the local labour market
• Enhancing Macao's brand image
• Benefiting Macao's sustainable development

Free application, 45 working days

No application fee is charged. The review takes 45 working days, which may be suspended under Article 15(2) of Administrative Regulation 3/2005 (for example, while documents are requested).

The history of "buy property, get residency": closed since 4 April 2007

The property-based investment residence route stopped accepting new applications on 4 April 2007 (AR 7/2007). Only renewals, family-member benefits and pre-existing applications continue. Any claim that buying property still grants Macao residence does not match the current system.