The Hong Kong Immigration Department (ImmD) has announced that, effective December 13, 2024, the services of the Personal Documentation Submission Kiosks (PDSKs) have been enhanced by introducing self-application services for Hong Kong identity cards (HKICs).
What to Expect
Eligible applicants can complete the HKIC application procedures in a self-service manner and can apply for HKICs and Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) passports in one visit to the PDSKs, without an appointment.
PDSKs are set up at the Immigration Headquarters in Tseung Kwan O.
The first phase of the new services will cover the following three types of replacement applications of HKIC holders who are aged 18 or above holding a locally issued smart HKIC:
- Replacement for an adult HKIC for persons reaching the age of 18;
- Replacement for a permanent HKIC for persons having their eligibility for permanent HKIC verified; and
- Replacement for a new smart HKIC for persons holding a valid old form of smart HKIC.
After the launch of the new services, eligible applicants can also apply for HKICs and HKSAR passports in one go through the PDSKs without the need to repeatedly undergo identity verification, photo taking and form filling.
For collection, the ImmD has integrated various functions of the collection kiosks. Eligible applicants can collect HKICs and HKSAR passports in one go in a self-service manner through the Personal Documentation Collection Kiosks (PDCKs), which are also located at Immigration Headquarters.
Furthermore, the ImmD has reduced the processing time for the new smart HKIC. The time required is shortened to five working days from the previous seven working days. Applicants can collect the new HKIC on the next working day after the completion of processing by the ImmD.
Erickson Insights & Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue to monitor developments and share updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or case-specific questions.