New Hong Kong passport unveiled

An enhanced Hong Kong Special Administrative Region passport will be issued from tomorrow (January 1).

The Director of Immigration, Mr Lai Tung-kwok, said today (December 31) the Department had constantly carried out reviews on improvements to the security features of the passport.

"The new passport being issued from tomorrow is the product of advanced technology in security printing over the past few years," he said.

"The HKSAR passport has been in circulation for more than five years following its introduction on 1 July 1997.

"So far, we have issued more than 2.13 million passports, and there are now 124 countries and territories granting visa-free access to the holders of HKSAR passports."

The enhanced version has the same appearance as the existing passport and retains the original security features. However, the personal data page of the new passport is covered with a much thinner security laminate. Other visible security features include:

* A logo in the pattern of 'HKSAR' printed in optically variable ink is placed across the left edge of the photograph. The colour of the logo will change when viewed at an angle.

* The issuing authority 'IMMIGRATION DEPARTMENT, HONG KONG SPECIAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGION' in both Chinese and English is also printed in optically variable ink.

* A fluorescent bauhinia with radiating fine lines and letters in the pattern of 'HKSAR' will appear on the personal data page when viewed under ultra-violet light.

Mr Lai said there would be no changes in the application procedures or the fee for the enhanced HKSAR passport.

He said existing passports would remain valid until their expiry date and would not have to be replaced in advance.

End/Tuesday, December 31, 2002