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People born in 1950-51 next in line for smart ID cards

27 February 2005

Existing Hong Kong identity (ID) card holders born in 1950 or 1951 are required to apply for a new Smart ID card from March 14 to April 23, 2005, at a Smart ID Card Centre.

The Immigration Department said this would be Phase 10 of the Hong Kong Smart Identity Card Replacement Exercise.

Starting from tomorrow (February 28), eligible applicants can book an appointment by calling the hotline 1838 333, or visiting the ESDlife website www.esd.gov.hk, or at any ESD kiosk.

If applicants' 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 existing ID cards. Other eligible applicants should bring their travel documents showing their current residential status in Hong Kong, in addition to their existing ID cards.

The exercise covers all Hong Kong residents. Permanent residents and temporary residents taking up employment, investment, residence, study, or work as foreign domestic helpers, are required to comply with the replacement programme. Employers should allow their helpers time off to apply for the new ID cards.

The current phase for people born in 1952 or 1953 will end on March 12, 2005. Eligible applicants who have not yet replaced their ID cards should apply as soon as possible in order to avoid a last-minute rush. 

Failure to apply for a new ID card within the specified period without reasonable excuse is an offence. Offenders may be prosecuted and liable to 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.

The spokesman also reminded cross-boundary drivers, including private car drivers, that since September 27, 2004, an option had been provided for them to apply for new ID cards at any of the Smart ID Card Centres before the periods specified for their age groups on production of proof that they were cross-boundary drivers.

For further information about the Replacement Exercise and the required documentary proof for the cross-boundary drivers, please visit www.smartid.gov.hk or call the Immigration Department hotline, 2824 6111.