Children born between 1990 and 1992 or 1997 and 2003, who hold existing Hong Kong identity cards must apply for a new Smart ID card in the company of a parent or legal guardian at a Smart ID Card Centre from July 10 to November 11.

Those who are away from Hong Kong during the period should apply within 30 days of their return. A child who has never applied for a Hong Kong ID card or has already registered for a smart ID card need not replace his ID card.

Parents or legal guardians of eligible children are encouraged to book an appointment in advance. Bookings can be made by telephone at 1838 333, through the ESDlife website, or at any ESD kiosk.

Those born in 1990, 1991 or 1992, need only bring their existing ID cards if their ID cards bear the "A" or "*" symbol, or if their ID cards were issued on or after January 1, 1999, and bear the "R" residential symbol.

Otherwise, they should bring travel documents showing their current residential status in Hong Kong and their ID cards.

Identity proof

For children born in any year between 1997 and 2003, in addition to the existing Hong Kong Permanent ID card, the parent or legal guardian should also produce the child's proof of identity, such as a recent travel document or a recent school document with certified photo, and a recent photo (50 x 40 mm full face photo), if the child is not taller than 90 cm.

The accompanying parent or legal guardian is required to produce his/her proof of identity. If the child is accompanied by a legal guardian, proof of guardianship is also required.

The current application phase for people born in 1983, 1984 or 1985 will end on July 8. Eligible applicants who have not yet replaced their ID cards should apply as soon as possible to avoid a last-minute rush. 

For further information about the replacement exercise, visit the department's website or call 2824 6111.