Existing Hong Kong identity card holders born in 1962 or 1963 are required to apply for a new Smart ID card from March 15 to May 22, at a Smart ID Card Centre.

This will be Phase 4 of the Hong Kong Smart Identity Card Replacement Exercise.

Starting from tomorrow, eligible applicants can book an appointment at any ESD kiosk, by calling the hotline 1838 333, or visiting the ESDlife website.

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 to bring along 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.

Permanent and temporary residents must comply

The replacement exercise covers all residents in Hong Kong. Both permanent residents and temporary residents who take up employment, investment, residence, study, or work as foreign domestic helpers are required to comply with the replacement programme.

Employers should allow their helpers time off to apply for the new smart cards.

The current phase for people born in 1964 or 1965 will end on March 13. Eligible applicants who have not yet replaced their ID cards should apply as soon as practicable to avoid a last-minute rush.

Failure to apply is an offence

Failure to apply for a new ID card within the specified period without reasonable excuse is an offence. Offenders may be prosecuted and could be liable to a fine of $5,000.

However, 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 click here or telephone the Immigration Department hotline at 2824 6111.