Hong Kong Completes Major Identity Card Transition in October 2025
Hong Kong's Immigration Department invalidated all old-form smart identity cards on October 12, 2025, marking the completion of Phase II of the territory's largest identity document modernization program. Residents born in 1969 or earlier who failed to replace their old ID cards now face immigration clearance issues and potential fines. This deadline affects millions of Hong Kong permanent and non-permanent residents who still held identity cards issued before November 26, 2018.
The invalidation represents the final phase of Hong Kong's transition to new biometric smart ID cards, which began with Phase I on May 12, 2025, affecting residents born in 1970 or later. The new cards feature enhanced security features, biometric data storage, and compliance with international identity document standards established by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
Key Changes to Hong Kong ID Card Requirements
The October 2025 deadline introduced several critical changes affecting identity document validity and usage across Hong Kong:
- Complete Invalidation: All old-form smart ID cards issued before November 26, 2018 are now completely invalid for any official purposes
- Immigration Clearance Impact: Invalid ID card holders must present a valid travel document (passport) for entry and exit from Hong Kong
- Financial Penalties: Failure to replace old ID cards without reasonable excuse carries fines up to HK$5,000 upon conviction
- Employment Verification: Non-permanent residents with employment, investment, residence or study permits must use new ID cards for all verification purposes
- Banking and Services: Old ID cards are no longer accepted for opening bank accounts, government services, or official transactions
- Right of Abode Protection: The invalidation does not affect permanent resident status, but invalid cards cannot be used to prove residency rights
The Immigration Department emphasizes that this invalidation affects all Hong Kong residents, whether permanent or non-permanent, who hold employment, investment, residence or study permits. Additionally, the modernization aligns Hong Kong with global trends toward enhanced biometric identity verification and digital security measures.
Who Is Affected by the ID Card Requirements Update
The October 12, 2025 deadline impacts multiple categories of Hong Kong residents, each facing specific compliance requirements and consequences.
For Hong Kong Permanent Residents Born Before 1970
Permanent residents born in 1969 or earlier must have replaced their old ID cards by the October deadline. While the invalidation does not affect their right of abode in Hong Kong, they cannot use invalid ID cards for immigration clearance, requiring a valid passport for all border crossings. Furthermore, they face potential prosecution and fines if they failed to apply for replacement during designated call-up periods without reasonable excuse.
For Non-Permanent Residents with Work or Study Permits
Non-permanent residents holding employment, investment, residence or study permits face more severe consequences with invalid ID cards. They cannot verify their legal status for employment purposes, potentially affecting job security and contract renewals. Moreover, invalid ID cards prevent them from accessing essential government services, opening bank accounts, or completing official transactions, effectively limiting their ability to function in Hong Kong's regulated environment.
For Frequent Cross-Border Travelers
Hong Kong residents who frequently travel to mainland China, Macau, or internationally must now carry valid passports in addition to their new smart ID cards. The old ID cards are no longer accepted at any immigration checkpoints, including automated e-channels that previously recognized old-form smart cards. This change significantly affects daily commuters and business travelers who relied on ID cards for quick border crossings.
How to Replace Your Hong Kong ID Card - Complete Process
Hong Kong residents still holding invalid ID cards should complete the replacement process immediately at designated Registration of Persons offices.
- Gather Required Documents: Bring your current (invalid) ID card, proof of address in Hong Kong, and any supporting identity documents such as birth certificate or passport
- Book an Appointment: Visit the Immigration Department website or call the 24-hour hotline to schedule an appointment at your nearest Registration of Persons office
- Prepare ID Card Photos: Obtain recent passport-style photographs meeting ICAO biometric standards - photos must be taken within the last 6 months, showing neutral expression, and meeting specific dimension requirements
- Attend Your Appointment: Arrive on time with all documents, complete the application form, provide biometric data (fingerprints and digital photo), and pay the applicable fee if required
- Collect Your New Card: New smart ID cards are typically ready for collection within 10 working days - bring your collection notice and old ID card (if available) to pick up your new biometric card
Important Dates and Compliance Timeline
Understanding the complete timeline helps Hong Kong residents ensure compliance with new identity card requirements and avoid penalties.
- November 26, 2018: Hong Kong began issuing new-form smart ID cards with enhanced biometric security features
- May 12, 2025: Phase I deadline - all old ID cards for residents born in 1970 or later became invalid
- October 12, 2025: Phase II deadline - all remaining old ID cards for residents born in 1969 or earlier became completely invalid
- Ongoing Enforcement: Immigration checkpoints now reject all old-form ID cards, requiring valid passports for holders of invalid identity documents
- Prosecution Period: Authorities may prosecute residents who failed to replace ID cards during call-up periods, with cases processed throughout 2025-2026
Frequently Asked Questions About Hong Kong ID Card Updates
What Happens If My Old Hong Kong ID Card Is Already Invalid?
If your old ID card became invalid on October 12, 2025, you must apply for a replacement immediately at a Registration of Persons office. You cannot use the invalid card for any official purposes, including immigration clearance, where you must present a valid passport instead. While your permanent resident status remains unaffected, you may face a fine of up to HK$5,000 if you failed to apply during your designated call-up period without reasonable excuse.
Do I Need New Photos for My Smart ID Card Application?
Yes, Hong Kong smart ID card applications require recent photographs meeting international ICAO biometric standards. Your photos must be taken within the last 6 months, show a neutral facial expression with mouth closed, and meet specific dimension requirements (typically 40mm x 50mm). Professional passport photo services like VisaPics ensure your identity card photos meet all technical specifications, including proper lighting, background color, and head positioning, reducing the risk of application rejection.
Can I Still Travel With an Invalid Hong Kong ID Card?
No, you cannot use an invalid Hong Kong ID card for any immigration purposes, including entry to or exit from Hong Kong. Immigration checkpoints require holders of invalid ID cards to present a valid travel document such as a passport for clearance. This applies to all border crossings, including travel to mainland China, Macau, and international destinations, as well as automated e-channel systems that no longer recognize old-form smart identity cards.
What Hong Kong Residents Need to Know Going Forward
The October 12, 2025 deadline marks a permanent change to Hong Kong's identity document landscape, with no extensions or exceptions for old-form ID cards. Residents must prioritize replacing invalid cards immediately to avoid disruption to daily life, employment verification, and travel plans. The Immigration Department continues to process applications at designated Registration of Persons offices, with new smart ID cards typically issued within 10 working days.
For travelers and residents worldwide facing similar identity document transitions, ensure your passport photos and ID card images meet current biometric standards to avoid application delays. Professional photo services specializing in government document requirements can help you navigate the increasingly strict photo specifications demanded by immigration authorities globally, ensuring your applications meet technical standards on the first submission.