XN000022-1995-05-25 — Page 22

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Application for BN(O) passports

The final date for Hong Kong British Dependent Territories citizens (BDTCs) born prior to 1947 to apply for British National (Overseas) (BN(O)) passports will be on June 30, a Hong Kong Government Spokesman reminded the public today (Thursday).

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Hong Kong BDTCs (such as persons born, naturalised or registered in Hong Kong) must obtain a BN(O) passport if they wish to continue to travel on British; passports beyond 1997. As specified in the Second Schedule to the Hong Kong (British Nationality) Order 1986, applications for BN(O) passports must be submitted on or before the final dates relevant to their age groups.

Eligible applicants born prior to 1947 must submit their applications on or before June 30.

Further publicity will be made in respect of BDTCs born in other years so that they may submit their applications by phases according to their age groups. They are of course free to submit their applications now.

Persons who do not comply with the relevant cut-off dates will not be able to travel on British passports beyond 1997. An application made after the final date will only be accepted if the applicant can show there are special circumstances which justify his late application.

A BN(O) Late Registration Appeals Advisory Committee has been established to advise the Governor on those late applications which have been rejected by the Immigration Department.

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The spokesman emphasised that those who already had a BN(O) passport, either the conventional hard-cover type or the burgundy red machine readable type, er! need not apply again.

Applications for BN(O) passports may be submitted to the Immigration Department either by post or in person. Applicants may also deposit their applications into the drop-in boxes installed at the Immigration Headquarters or at any immigration branch offices throughout the territory. Application forms are available at all immigration offices and district offices.

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