Registration Opens for Cooperative Inspection Self-Service Lanes at New Huanggang Port

Eligible Hong Kong residents can now register to use the “cooperative inspection” self-service lanes at the new Huanggang Port, which is expected to begin operations as early as next Monday (October 12). The Immigration Department announced that registration is available immediately through the “Hong Kong e-Channel” mobile app, formerly known as the “Contactless e-Channel.” The new port will operate under a “one location, two inspections” model and introduce an innovative “cooperative inspection, one-time clearance” arrangement designed to streamline the cross-boundary process.

Hong Kong residents aged seven or above may apply if they meet specific eligibility criteria. These include holders of a Hong Kong permanent identity card together with a Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macao Residents (commonly known as the Home Return Permit) who have already registered for Mainland express channels; holders of a Hong Kong permanent identity card and a Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macao Residents (Non-Chinese Nationals) who are likewise registered for Mainland express channels; holders of a Hong Kong identity card and a Home Return Permit with Mainland express channel registration; or holders of a Hong Kong identity card and an Exit-Entry Permit for Travelling to and from Hong Kong and Macao that carries a valid endorsement for travel to Hong Kong. Registration for Mainland express channels is a basic requirement. Anyone who has not yet completed that step must first do so on the Mainland side before becoming eligible for the cooperative inspection self-service lanes.

Adults aged 18 or above can complete the registration conveniently on their smartphones. They need only download the Hong Kong e-Channel app, select the cooperative inspection option, verify their identity through iAM Smart, and follow the on-screen instructions. Successful registration through the app takes effect immediately, allowing users to clear immigration without delay. Residents aged seven to 17 must have their parents or legal guardians register on their behalf using the same app. Those aged 14 or above may also opt to enrol in facial recognition clearance at the same time, enabling them to pass through the self-service lanes without presenting physical documents.

In addition to online registration, eligible residents can complete the process in person at the e-Channel registration counters or self-service kiosks located at the Huanggang Port. Adults aged 18 or above further have the option of registering on the spot when they first use the cooperative inspection self-service lanes. Assistant Commissioner of Immigration (Control) Wong Kee explained that because app registration becomes effective at once, residents who register at the port can proceed to clear immigration right away. For those registering at the lane itself for the first time, the process is straightforward: they simply agree to the terms displayed on the screen, an action that takes only a few seconds and does not significantly affect clearance time.

The new cooperative inspection arrangement is expected to offer a smoother and more efficient experience for eligible travellers once the Huanggang Port officially opens for service.