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Persons born in 1964-65 should apply for smart ID cards from Jan 12-March 13

28 December 2003

Holders of existing identity (ID) cards who were born in 1964 or 1965 are required to apply for the smart ID cards between January 12 and March 13, 2004 under the Hong Kong Smart ID Card Replacement Exercise.

"Starting from December 29, eligible applicants can book an appointment by telephone at 1838 333, via the ESDlife website: www.esd.gov.hk, or at any ESD kiosk," a spokesman for the Immigration Department said.

Eligible applicants should submit their applications in person at a Smart ID Card Centre. If their ID cards bear the 'A' or '***' residential symbol, or their ID cards were issued on or after 1 January 1999 and bear the 'R' residential symbol, they need only bring along their present ID cards. Other eligible applicants should bring along their travel documents showing their current residential status in Hong Kong, in addition to their present ID cards.

"The Replacement Exercise covers all residents in Hong Kong, whether they are permanent residents or temporary residents taking up employment, investment, residence, study or working as foreign domestic helpers. Employers should allow their helpers to go out to apply for the new ID cards," the spokesman said.

The spokesman also reminded persons born in 1966 or 1967 that they have to apply for new ID cards on or before January 10, 2004.

The spokesman added that failure to apply for the new ID card within the specified period may constitute an offence. Offenders may be prosecuted and be liable to a fine of $5,000. However, persons who are away from Hong Kong during the specified period should apply for new ID cards within 30 days of their return to Hong Kong.

For further information about the replacement exercise, please visit www.smartid.gov.hk or telephone the Immigration Department hotline at 2824 6111.