The Immigration Department will issue machine-readable documents of identity for visa purposes from September 1.

The documents feature a number of advanced security features and comply with International Civil Aviation Organisation standards.

With a completely computerised system and the enhanced features, document holders will find travelling even more convenient.

Existing visa documents issued before September 1 are still valid until their expiry. The holders do not have to replace them with machine-readable ones.

Application criteria for the new documents are the same as for the existing one. Applications can be submitted in person at any Immigration office.

Applications can also be posted or deposited in drop-in boxes located at the six Immigration offices. The processing time for the new documents will be 15 working days - same as that for the HKSAR passport.

Fees and validity also remain unchanged. A 44-page document is $260 and a 92-page one is $525, both valid for seven years.