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Hong Kong Immigration News

Written by Atish Nair | Jul 8, 2024 12:43:45 PM

Hong Kong to invalidate old smart identity cards in 2025

Hong Kong authorities have announced significant changes regarding the validity of old smart identity cards. By 2025, identity cards issued before November 26, 2018, will be invalidated in two phases.

Old Identity Cards 

The changes will be implemented as follows:

  • Phase I: Identity cards for those born in 1970 or later will be invalid from May 12, 2025.
  • Phase II: Identity cards for those born in 1969 or earlier will be invalid from October 12, 2025.

New Identity Cards

Residents, both permanent and non-permanent, can apply for new identity cards at designated Registration of Persons (ROP) offices. The following options are available:

  • Kwun Tong (Temporary) Office: A dedicated temporary office for card replacement.
  • Extended Hours at Select Offices: Hong Kong, Kowloon, Tseung Kwan O, and Tuen Mun ROP offices will offer extended hours to accommodate applicants.

Residents Outside Hong Kong

Residents who are outside Hong Kong during the call-up periods must replace their identity cards within 30 days of returning to the city

Penalties for Non-compliance

 Failure to obtain a new identity card without a valid reason may result in a fine of up to HKD 5,000. However, exemptions will apply to individuals with specific circumstances such as age, blindness, or being informed by authorities.

Conclusion

The invalidation of old smart identity cards is a significant move towards enhancing security and efficiency in identity management in Hong Kong. Ensure you stay updated and comply with the new requirements to avoid penalties. For more information, visit the official Hong Kong Registration of Persons (ROP) website or contact the nearest ROP office.

Stay tuned for further updates as more information becomes available.

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About Anywr

Anywr is a French international group specializing in the Global Talent mobility and international recruitment. The company supports businesses in the search and integration of international talent, offering a complete range of services from sourcing to settlement. Anywr has a network of over 300 consultants in 16 countries. A member of the FrenchTech 120, the group is now composed of nearly 900 employees worldwide, with 400 in France, serving the largest French and international groups. Anywr is an innovative and responsible company, committed to its communities, which puts its expertise and solutions at the service of social integration projects and diversity. ANYWR has adopted the status of a Mission-led Company (Loi Pacte) since June 2021.

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