Starting from January 21, Hong Kong’s Immigration Department (IMMD) will officially begin the process of issuing brand new HKID cards to all local residents. Coupled with a Next Generation Smart Identity Card System, the new identification card will be enhanced with upgraded features on security, card durability, and chip technology for personal data protection. So whether you’re due for a card renewal, or about to hit that 7-year PR mark, we break down everything you need to know about the new Hong Kong Smart Identity Card.
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1. What are the security features on the new HKID card?
The new Smart Identity Card will feature nine anti-forgery security upgrades such as hologram with wave and 3D effect, multi-pattern background, stereo laser image with portrait, and micro-printed text. More details on these new features can be found here.
2. When can I get my new card?
All current Smart Hong Kong Identity Card holders will be invited in stages, starting from January 21 to the end of March, and those born in the year of 1985 or 1986 can begin to apply for a new HKID card replacement. Click here to see when you can apply.
3. Where do I go to replace my card?
There are a total of nine Smart Identity Card Replacement Centres (SIDCCs) throughout Hong Kong where you will need to go to get a card replacement. Each centre opens from 8am to 10pm on Monday to Saturday. Check out the locations here.
4. Do I have to make an appointment?
While there will be a small handful of walk-in quotas at each centre per day, citizens are highly encouraged to make an appointment beforehand either online, by phone (+852 2121 1234), or via the IMMD’s mobile app.
5. What are the application procedures?
Upon arrival at a designated SIDCC, applicants who have previously made an appointment can head straight to the Self-service Tag Issuing Kiosk to obtain a tag number by scanning the QR code provided in their appointment letter. After doing so, the applicant may insert their existing Smart Identity Card and verify their fingerprints at the kiosk, before filling in an application form which will be printed out once all information has been verified.
Applicants should then wait for their tag number to be called, and a member of staff will come to take their photograph. A notice of collection will then be issued to the applicant, and the application process will then be complete. Don’t forget to check the supporting documents you may need to take with you.
6. I won’t be in Hong Kong during my replacement period, what should I do?
If you are out of the city during your designated period of replacement, there is no need to rush back to Hong Kong. Simply apply to replace your existing HKID card at any one of the SIDCCs within 30 days of returning to Hong Kong.
7. Any special arrangements for the elderly or those with disabilities?
Applicants may bring along two family members of friends aged 65 or above to replace their HKID card during the same visit. During Q2 of 2019, the IMMD will also begin to make arrangements for IMMD staff to visit over 1,000 registered nursing homes and care homes for persons with disabilities in Hong Kong in order to carry out off-site card replacement services.
For more information, visit the New Smart Identity Card's official website, or call the 24-hour enquiry hotline on (+852) 2824 6111.
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