Planning to travel abroad this summer? The Immigration Department reminds potential travellers to apply for their travel documents as early as possible to avoid the summer rush.

Applications for Hong Kong passports can be submitted to the Immigration Department by post or placed in drop boxes provided at Immigration headquarters and all Immigration branch offices.

The normal processing time for a Hong Kong passport is 15 working days - excluding Saturdays, Sundays and general holidays.

To date, 131 countries and territories have granted visa-free access to Hong Kong  passport holders.

Application forms and information leaflets on application procedures and documents required are available at Immigration Headquarters and all Immigration branch offices. If you have questions, call the Immigration Department on 2824 6111, fax 2877 7711 or visit the website, www.immd.gov.hk.

Applications for identity cards and other Registration of Persons services are also in high demand at this time of the year. To apply for an identity card, itis best to book an appointment by calling the 24-hour hotline, 2598 0888, or through the website, www.esd.gov.hk.

Machine-readable permits relieve congestion

New machine-readable Re-entry Permits enable permit-holders to enjoy more efficient immigration clearance, and help to relieve congestion at control points.

If you have a non-machine-readable multiple re-entry permit issued before December 17, 2001, please apply for a machine-readable labels that may be affixed to your permit. There is no charge for the service.

Application forms are available at the Information and Liaison Section at Immigration Headquarters, the six Immigration branch offices, District Offices and main Post Offices. The forms may also be downloaded from the homepage of the Immigration Department, www.immd.gov.hk.