The automated passenger clearance system, or 'e-channels', has been introduced at Lo Wu departure hall allowing Hong Kong permanent residents, aged 11 or above, holding smart ID cards to perform self-service departure clearance.

The Immigration Department said some e-channels have been commissioned to let people familiarise themselves with their operation. The system will be fine-tuned according to traveller feedback and more e-channels will be installed at other control points in phases.

Easy use

To enter the e-channel, insert the smart ID card with the side bearing the arrow and chip into the card reader, wait for authentication, and enter the e-channel when the gate doors open. After entering, place thumb flat on the centre of the scanner for fingerprint verification, then leave the e-channel.

One person is allowed to enter at a time. While one is performing fingerprint verification, the next can insert the ID card into the reader. If anyone has registered their smart ID card with a finger instead of a thumb, the finger should be used for identity verification.

If someone collects the ID card by proxy, the card needs to be activated by verifying the fingerprint at self-service kiosks located at Smart Identity Card Centres, Registration of Persons Offices and control points before using the e-channel.

The department will explain the best way to complete the fingerprint verification process quickly through an Announcement of Public Interest and pamphlets.