Hong Kong | Old Hong Kong identity cards invalidated

The Hong Kong government announced that Hong Kong identity cards issued before Nov. 26, 2018, will be invalidated in two phases in 2025.

Key Points:

• Phase I cards will become invalid on May 12, 2025, for individuals born in or after 1970, and Phase II cards will become invalid on Oct. 12, 2025, for individuals born in or before 1969.
• The new policy applies to all permanent and non-permanent residents. Failure to obtain a new card may result in a fine of 5,000 Hong Kong dollars (about US$640).
• Residents can apply for new cards at designated Registration of Persons offices, including the Kwun Tong temporary office or during extended hours at the Hong Kong, Kowloon, Tseung Kwan O or Tuen Mun ROP offices.

Additional Information: Individuals outside of Hong Kong during the call-up periods must replace their cards within 30 days of returning. Exemptions apply for individuals with specific circumstances such as age, blindness or infirmity. These individuals must satisfy a registration officer that their personal attendance for registration of Hong Kong ID cards will injure their health or the health of others. They may then apply for a certificate of exemption in order to obtain a replacement for their new ID card.

BAL Analysis: The government’s invalidation order covers all residents, whether they are permanent residents or non-permanent residents who are permitted to take up employment, make investments, reside or study in Hong Kong. This new order follows last year’s territory-wide identity card replacement exercise as part of the government’s efforts to modernize its immigrations system. Individuals can make an appointment for ID card application via this website.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice Group.

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