As part of the Immigration Department’s (ImmD) scheme to gradually introduce their new smart IDs, the first cohort of ID card holders, those born in 1985 or 1986, have until March 29 to book an appointment and replace their current cards. The new Smart ID cards have enhanced security and card durability, as well as personal data protection features. All ID card holders must have their cards replaced, regardless of whether they are permanent residents, or residents of employment (domestic helpers included), study, or investment.
According to the ImmD, holders of existing HKID cards will be called to visit one of nine established Smart Identity Card Replacement Centers (SIDCCs) in phases, according to their year of birth. Members of the government, immigration and police officers and labour inspectors were called first. The next replacement period will be for those born in 1968 or 1969.
In order to book an appointment, one can visit the government website, download and book through the ImmD Mobile Application, or by calling 2121 1234.
The ImmD has reassured residents who are overseas when they are contacted that there is no need to rush back, as they will be able to apply for a new card within 30 days of their return to Hong Kong. The overall replacement scheme is estimated to take over four years to complete.
There will be no fee for the replacement cards.
For more information on the new smart IDs, application procedure, and provisional replacement schedule, visit smartid.gov.hk/en/index.htm
Tags: HKID, immigration department, smart id
