The Immigration Department has announced that facial recognition technology will be available at more border crossings later this year to facilitate "contactless" travel. This technology will allow residents to pass through immigration checkpoints by looking at a camera after using their ID cards or QR codes generated through their phones.
They also announced that eligible Hong Kong residents will be able to pass through checkpoints without touching the fingerprint scanner.
The department has specified that this new facial recognition service will be "optional" for Hong Kongers.
Note that this technology has been part of border control points since 2017, when the airport's "Smart Departure" service was launched for visitors.
The department will also begin issuing electronic visas from the end of the year. Applications for entry permits and extensions of stay will be processed online, including application, payment and visa collection. Applicants will receive documents by e-mail and will no longer need to visit the immigration office.
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