Identity cards issued before June 23, 2003, with the year of birth from 1970 to '79 will be invalid from September 17, the Immigration Department says.

Most residents in this age group replaced their cards during the Smart Identity Card Replacement Exercise. Those who have not replaced their cards yet should apply immediately at any Registration of Persons office.

Old cards issued before June 23, 2003, and bearing the year of birth from 1958 to '69 have been invalid since October. Those bearing the year of birth from 1943 to '57 have been invalid since January.

The invalidation of old cards will not affect the holders' right of abode in Hong Kong unless they have lost permanent residency status.

For details click here or call 2824 6111.