In our spotlight on APAC series, we round up the latest developments across the region. In this post, we capture the new guidelines to invalidate Old Smart ID Cards in phrases in Hong Kong in October 2025. The government of Hong Kong recently announced that they will invalidate Hong Kong identity cards issued before 26 November 2018, which to be done in two phases by 2025.
Phase I: affect individuals born in 1970 or after, whose cards will become invalid on 12 May 2025.
Phase II: affect individuals born in 1969 or before, with their cards becoming invalid on 12 October 2025.
This new policy initiation affects all permanent and non-permanent Hong Kong residents. Replacement of new identity cards can be applied by the holders of the old ID cards at the Registration of Persons (ROP) with appointment at any of the six other designated offices: Kwun Tong (Temporary) Office, Hong Kong Office, Kowloon Office, Tseung Kwan O Office, or Tuen Mun Office. They may secure an appointment by scanning the QR codes here to download the ImmD mobile application or visit this website and fill in the application form in advance to better facilitate the application.
For individuals born in or before 1969 who are holding a locally issued old ID card may also use the Personal Documentation Submission Kiosks (PDSKs) which is located at the Immigration Headquarters in Tseung Kwan O. Appointment will not be required, and individuals can apply for a replacement card at the self-service kiosk before their old ID cards become invalid on 12 October 2025.
For individuals who are outside Hong Kong during the specified call-up periods are required to have their identity cards replaced within 30 days of their return to the country. For those who cannot attend registration due to health concerns (elderly, blind, or frail) may apply for a Certificate of Exemption as a replacement for of a new identity card. Individuals who do not acquire a new identity card without a reasonable justification can be fined up to HKD 5,000. Nevertheless, the invalidation will not deter the right to reside and work in Hong Kong unless the individual has lost permanent residency status under the Immigration Ordinance and there may be restriction on the use of the automated e-gate at the Hong Kong airport.
For more information or any assistance you require pertaining to the above-mentioned, please do not hesitate to contact Rachel.ang@magrath.sg or Royston@magrath.sg.
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