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Existing Hong Kong identity (ID) card holders born in 1976 or 1977 are required to apply for a new Smart ID card from December 28, 2005 to February 11, 2006 at a Smart ID Card Centre.
The Immigration Department said this would be Phase 16 of the Hong Kong Smart Identity Card Replacement Exercise.
Eligible applicants can now book an appointment by calling the hotline 1838 333, visiting the ESDlife website at www.esd.gov.hk, or by calling at any ESD kiosk. "Applicants are encouraged to book an appointment in advance to ensure that they can apply for the new ID cards at their chosen time slot," an Immigration Department spokesman said.
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 release their helpers to apply for the new ID cards.
The current phase for people born in 1974 or 1975 will end on December 24, 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 face 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.
For further information about the Replacement Exercise, please visit www.smartid.gov.hk or call the Immigration Department hotline, 2824 6111.
Ends/Sunday, December 18, 2005
Issued at HKT 09:01
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