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The Immigration Department today (July 3) reminded holders of existing identity (ID) cards who were born in 1983, 1984 or 1985 to apply for smart ID cards under the Hong Kong Smart ID Card Replacement Exercise on or before this coming Saturday (July 8). They should submit their applications in person at a Smart ID Card Centre.
"To avoid a last minute rush, eligible applicants are advised to submit their applications as soon as possible," an immigration spokesman said.
If their ID cards bear the "A" or "***" residential symbol, or their ID cards were issued on or after January 1, 1999, and bear the "R" residential symbol, they need only bring their current ID cards. Other eligible applicants should bring their travel documents showing their current residential status in Hong Kong, in addition to their current ID cards.
The exercise covers all Hong Kong residents. Permanent residents and temporary residents taking up employment, investment, residence, study, or working as foreign domestic helpers, are required to comply with the replacement programme. Employers should release their helpers to apply for the new ID cards.
The spokesman stressed that failure to apply for a new ID card within the specified period without reasonable excuse was an offence. Offenders may be prosecuted and face a fine of $5,000. Those who are away from Hong Kong during the specified period should apply within 30 days of their return to Hong Kong.
For further information about the Replacement Exercise, please visit www.smartid.gov.hk or call the Immigration Department hotline, 2824 6111.
Ends/Monday, July 3, 2006
Issued at HKT 09:26
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