CONFIDENTIAL
XCX(93)22
HKSAR passports
8
After 1997, BDTCs with right of abode in the HKSAR, and who are Chinese citizens under the Chinese Nationality Law, will be eligible for HKSAR passports. They are now eligible for BN(O) and may continue to hold BN(O) passports after 1997, together with HKSAR passports. Most Certificate of Identity holders - persons of Chinese race who have ordinarily resided in Hong Kong for not less than seven years - will also be eligible for HKSAR passports. The details of our proposal on HKSAR passports are at Annex B.
HKSAR Certificates of Identity
9
Non-Chinese CI holders - mainly stateless persons with right of abode in Hong Kong - may not be Chinese citizens under the Chinese Nationality Law. Notwithstanding several requests at JLG meetings, the Chinese side has not provided any clarification on the full definition of Chinese nationality and citizenship. Recent public statements by Chinese officials have suggested that non-ethnic Chinese may be able to become Chinese citizens. However, at present, non-Chinese CI holders will not be eligible for HKSAR passports and, after 1 July 1997, they will need some other form of HKSAR travel document. We propose that they should be eligible to apply for a HKSAR CI. The details of our proposal on HKSAR CI are at Annex C.
HKSAR Documents of Identity
10
Anyone lawfully residing in the HKSAR without right of abode, will need a HKSAR travel document equivalent to the DI. The details of our proposal on the HKSAR DI are at Annex D.
HKSAR Re-entry Permits
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There will be a continued need for Re-Entry Permits for travel between Hong Kong, China, and Macau. We propose that those who need them should be eligible for HKSAR Re-entry Permits. The details of our proposal are at Annex E.