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Old identity (ID) cards issued before June 23, 2003, with the year of birth from 1943 up to and including 1957 will be invalid from January 15, 2007.
A spokesman for the Immigration Department said today (January 4) most residents in this age group had replaced their ID cards during the specified call-up periods. "Eligible applicants who have not yet replaced their ID cards should apply immediately at any of the Smart ID Card Centres," he said.
"Old identity cards issued before June 23, 2003, and bearing the year of birth from 1958 up to and including 1969 have been invalid since October 16, 2006," the spokesman said.
The invalidation of old ID cards will not affect the holder's right of abode in Hong Kong unless the holder has lost his permanent residency status under the Immigration Ordinance.
Failure to apply for a new ID card within the specified call-up periods without reasonable excuse is an offence. Offenders may be prosecuted and are liable to a fine of $5,000.
"Holders of old ID cards who cannot have their ID cards replaced during the specified call-up periods due to their absence from Hong Kong should apply within 30 days of their return to Hong Kong," the spokesman said.
For further information about the Smart ID Card Replacement Exercise, please visit www.smartid.gov.hk or call the Immigration Department hotline, 2824 6111.
Ends/Thursday, January 4, 2007
Issued at HKT 09:01
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