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Existing Hong Kong identity card holders born in 1927 or before are required to apply for a new smart identity card from September 4 to November 11, 2006, at a Smart Identity Card Centre.
An Immigration Department spokesman said this would be Phase 21 of the Hong Kong Smart Identity Card Replacement Exercise. Permanent residents and temporary residents of the above age group are required to comply with the replacement programme. Those who are away from Hong Kong during the specified period should apply within 30 days of their return to Hong Kong.
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 such that they can apply for the new identity cards at the chosen time slot," an Immigration Department spokesman said.
If applicants' identity cards bear the "A" residential symbol or "***" symbol, or their identity cards were issued on or after January 1, 1999 and bear the "R" residential symbol, they need only bring their existing identity cards. Other eligible applicants should bring along their travel documents showing their current residential status in Hong Kong in addition to their existing identity cards.
For further information about the Replacement Exercise, please visit www.smartid.gov.hk or call the Immigration Department hotline, 2824 6111.
Ends/Monday, August 21, 2006
Issued at HKT 09:56
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