The Immigration Department today clarified rumours in online discussion forums about the alleged inadequacy of an arrangement on identity cards by the department recently. 

It reiterated that the arrangement aims to provide convenience for residents who have just been granted the right of abode. 

To avoid hassle for these residents in visiting immigration offices again to apply for a permanent identity card after acquiring their right of abode through scheduled appointments, the department implemented the arrangement to allow them to apply for a permanent identity card at the Registration of Persons Offices immediately after acquiring the right of abode.

Such an arrangement would not affect the provision of normal identity card services to other residents, the department noted.

It also clarified as untrue that a daily quota of 150 is reserved for One-way Permit holders and a daily quota of 150 is reserved for talents and professionals as mentioned in the forums, as there is no such arrangement.