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Last 10 days for people born in 1958 or 1959 to apply for smart ID cards

The Immigration Department today (September 15) reminded holders of existing identity (ID) cards who were born in 1958 or 1959 to apply for smart ID cards under the Hong Kong Smart ID Card Replacement Exercise by Saturday (September 25).

An immigration spokesman said that about 74% of those born in 1958 and 1959 had applied for smart ID cards as of the second week of September. "Those who have not yet applied should submit their applications in person at any one of the Smart ID Card Centres immediately," he said.

"The Replacement Exercise covers all Hong Kong residents, 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."

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 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 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 liable to a fine of $5,000. However, 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 at 2824 6111.