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Introduction of Smart Identity Card

With effect from 23 June 2003, the Government of the HKSAR starts issuing a new generation of identity cards in the form of smart cards. The new smart identity card bears the following characteristics:

- The smart identity card -

	The new identity card will take the form of a smart card with the size of a standard credit card.
	The card is produced by polycarbonate, a durable and secure base material with strong resistance to environmental influences as well as mechanical, chemical and thermal stress.
	The card is embedded with an integrated circuit, or a "chip" which has the capacity of storing and processing data.
	To view the design of a smart identity card, please press here.
	To view the security features included in a smart identity card, please press here.
	To view the list of information on the front of a smart identity card, please press here.

- The chip -

	The chip supports the recording, storing and processing of data as well as transmitting data to or receiving data from designated device electronically.
	The chip embedded in the smart identity card is designed with segregated compartments for keeping Immigration applications and other value-added non-immigration applications.
	# Cardholders have their FREE choice whether to include any of these non-immigration applications in their smart identity cards.
	** Space reserved for possible expansion on other non-immigration applications.

- Smart identity card readers installed at the immigration self-service kiosks -

Functions
	Smart identity card readers are computer workstations specially designed for the cardholder to: view the personal data stored in the chip of the smart identity card view the content and change the PIN of the Hong Kong Post e-Cert (if the holder has opted for one) update the condition of stay or limit of stay (if the holder is a Hong Kong resident with condition of stay)
	No fee is levied for using the smart identity card readers installed at the immigration self-service kiosks.
	To view the addresses and working hours of the immigration premises installed with immigration self-service kiosks and smart identity card readers, please press here.

The benefits of using a smart identity card

	High security - data engraved into different layers of the card and held in the chip can prevent lost or stolen identity cards from being altered or used by other people.
	Greater convenience - with the capacity of multi-applications, such as e-Certificate and library card function, the smart identity card holder can benefit from the convenience of using one card for various functions.
	Quality service - the issue of smart identity card helps establish the foundation of the delivery of electronic government services. In the near future, smart identity card holders may enjoy various kinds of public services simply by going on-line at home or making use of the smart identity card readers without attending Government offices in person.
	More convenient travel - with the thumbprint templates stored in the chip of the identity card, cardholders may enjoy convenient immigration clearance via the Automated Passenger Clearance System and the Automated Vehicle Clearance System.

Your personal data are well protected

	Data printed on the card surface are no more than that in the existing card.
	Only minimal data are stored in the chip. More sensitive personal information are kept at back-end computer systems.
	Data for different applications are segregated.
	All the non-immigration applications are voluntary.
	The collection, storage, use and release of data must comply with the Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance, Registration of Persons Ordinance and Registration of Persons Regulations.
	Only authorised departments can have access to the relevant database. There is no sharing of database among Government departments.
	Cardholders can view data on the card through smart identity card readers installed at immigration self-service kiosks after their identities have been authenticated.
	Privacy Impact Assessments are conducted at different stages of the Smart Identity Card Project.
	Legislative amendments have been enacted to enhance data privacy protection.

To protect your smart identity card

While you are enjoying the benefits of advanced technology, please remember that the smart identity card is an important identification document. Though the card is made of a very durable and secure base material, it can be damaged if you do not protect it properly. Hence, you are advised to keep your smart identity card in an appropriate protective holder. You should not bend the card or test it with a magnet. You should not place your card together with keys and/or coins. When you use the e-Cert in the smart identity card, please avoid scratching the chip, and if possible, you should use a soft-landing type of smart card reader which will not cause any friction with the chip. Never try to detach the chip from the card. It will not function any more once the chip is removed. Therefore, please do treasure your smart identity card by keeping it in good conditions at all times.