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Children holding existing identity (ID) cards and who were born between 1990 and 1992 or between 1997 and 2003 are required to apply for new smart ID cards by November 11, 2006.
An Immigration Department spokesman said today (August 28) that the call-up phase for people born in 1927 or before would begin on September 4.
"To avoid congestion after the commencement of the phase for the elderly and to avoid the last-minute rush, parents or legal guardians of children of the above age groups should apply for smart ID cards for their children as early as possible," the spokesman said. "To save the time for queuing, they are encouraged to make use of the appointment booking services by telephone at 1838 333, or via the ESDlife website at www.esd.gov.hk ".
A parent or legal guardian should accompany the children to apply for their smart ID cards at any of the Smart Identity Card Centres.
"Children who have never applied for ID cards or who have already registered for smart ID cards are not affected by the requirement," the spokesman said.
If the child was born between 1997 and 2003, other than the child's existing permanent ID card, the accompanying parent or legal guardian is required to produce the child's proof of identity, such as a recent travel document or a recent school document with certified photo (eg, student handbook, school record book).
For further information about the Replacement Exercise, please visit www.smartid.gov.hk or call the Immigration Department hotline, 2824 6111.
Ends/Monday, August 28, 2006
Issued at HKT 10:51
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