Hong Kong launches joint inspection自助通道 registration service
Hong Kong's Immigration Department has launched a registration service for the new joint-inspection自助通道 at the rebuilt Lok Ma Chau control point. Eligible residents and mainland visitors can register via mobile app or on-site to clear both HK and Shenzhen customs in one queue.
Hong Kong's Immigration Department has launched a registration service for the new “joint-inspection”自助通道 (automated border control lanes) at the rebuilt Lok Ma Chau (皇崗) control point. The facility will feature 134 such lanes and 68 traditional manual counters, allowing registered travellers to complete both Hong Kong and Shenzhen immigration procedures in a single queue with a single document presentation, the department announced on 6 October.
Hong Kong residents aged seven or above who meet certain criteria are now eligible to register. Eligible groups include holders of a Hong Kong permanent identity card and a “回乡证” (Home Return Permit) who have already registered for the mainland's fast-track system; holders of a Hong Kong permanent identity card and a non-Chinese-nationality Home Return Permit who have also registered for the mainland fast-track; holders of a Hong Kong identity card and a Home Return Permit with mainland fast-track registration; and holders of a Hong Kong identity card and a “往来港澳通行证” (Hong Kong-Macau Visit Permit) with a valid Hong Kong visa.
Hong Kong residents aged 18 or above can register via the “Hong Kong e-Lane” mobile app using their “iAM Smart” identity, selecting the “joint-inspection” option and following the prompts. Those aged seven to 17 must be registered by a parent or legal guardian through the same app. Alternatively, all eligible Hong Kong residents can register on-site at the e-Lane registration office or自助服务站 at Lok Ma Chau, while those aged 18 or above can simultaneously register and complete both border procedures at the自助通道.
Mainland visitors holding a Hong Kong-Macau Visit Permit with a valid Hong Kong visa can also register on-site at the e-Lane registration office at Lok Ma Chau. Mainland visitors aged 18 or above may likewise register and complete both border procedures at the自助通道 simultaneously. Eligible Hong Kong residents and mainland visitors aged 14 or above can additionally register for “face-scan clearance”, allowing them to use the自助通道 without presenting any document.
The Immigration Department reminded travellers that they must still carry valid travel documents meeting the requirements of both Hong Kong and the mainland when using the自助通道. Manual counters remain available for those who prefer them. Details on registration methods for different categories are provided in an annex to the announcement.