Home > Publications and Press Releases > Press Releases > Immigration clearance made simpler at Hong Kong control points

Publications and Press Releases

Immigration clearance made simpler at Hong Kong control points

30 April 2004

The Immigration Department announced today that from tomorrow (May 1), two categories of travellers will no longer be required to complete and furnish an arrival or departure card for immigration examination at all control points.

The categories of travellers are:

* Hong Kong residents whose travel document bears an endorsement indicating that they have permission to stay in Hong Kong for residence, employment or study.

* Holders of an Exit/Entry Permit to Hong Kong and Macau (EEP) or a Chinese Travel Permit (CTP) issued by the Mainland authorities other than cross-boundary drivers.

A department spokesman said that the new arrangement would mean greater convenience for these travellers. It will not only save them time for completing the card but will also speed up the immigration clearance process, which is particularly important during rush periods.

Since April 9, the requirement to furnish an arrival or departure card by Hong Kong residents holding a travel document issued by the Immigration Department and BN(O) passport has already been waived.

"However, the need for other categories of travellers to complete and furnish an arrival or departure card will remain unchanged", the spokesman added.