The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region has, in June 2003, started a programme to replace the old identity (ID) card with a smart ID card.

Unlike the traditional plastic ID card, the smart ID card, with a computer chip inside, has the capability to store and process data. The new ID card is a multi-application smart card. Other than immigration functions, the smart ID card also has the capability to support other non-immigration applications. You may store in the card a personal e-Cert issued by the Hongkong Post Certification Authority for conducting electronic transactions. You can also use the card as your Library Card for enjoying services provided by the public libraries.

The ID card replacement exercise was completed on 31 March 2007 with about 7.2 million smart ID cards issued.

Role of OGCIO in the Programme

The implementation of the multi-application smart ID card is an inter-departmental programme. It requires the collaboration of a number of bureaux and departments in a spectrum of areas covering operation, technology, management and policy. The OGCIO (or the then ITSD) has been commissioned to manage the programme as well as the development of the common infrastructural facilities.

A Programme Management Working Group (PMWG), under the chairmanship of our Deputy Government Chief Information Officer (Consulting and Operations), is responsible to coordinate, facilitate, and monitor various activities in the programme and to resolve cross-agency issues. Other participants in the PMWG include representatives from the Immigration Department, Leisure and Cultural Services Department, and Hongkong Post.

Through the cooperation of parties concerned, infrastructural components, e.g., the Card Face Data program, have been successfully built inside the smart ID card to ensure effective support of the initial and future applications. Across departments, we have also helped develop the infrastructure which includes, among others, a data communication network and a smart ID card Internet website. Public computers have been enhanced to facilitate the use of the smart ID card by the general public. We have also offered our services to lead, plan and administer the publicity campaign.

Smart ID Card Website