27 February 2016
The Immigration Department (ImmD) refused entry to Hong Kong to two Taiwan visitors at Hong Kong International Airport today (February 27).
The two passengers arrived in Hong Kong from Kaohsiung today afternoon. When processing their arrival clearance, the immigration officer discovered that the covers of their Taiwan re-entry travel documents were pasted with stickers. The two passengers were suspected to have altered their travel document without lawful authority and were refused permission to land after further examination. They were then repatriated to Taiwan.
While providing convenient immigration services to passengers, the ImmD is responsible for exercising and maintaining effective immigration control according to the laws of Hong Kong. The ImmD will process each application of entry under laws and existing policies.
The ImmD spokesman emphasised that any persons who have altered the travel document without lawful authority, or, who possess or use altered travel document, may violate the Immigration Ordinance (Cap 115). Offenders are liable to prosecution and the maximum penalty of a $150,000 fine and up to 14 years' imprisonment upon conviction. Aiders and abettors are also liable to the same prosecution and penalty. The spokesman also reminded that any persons using altered travel document for immigration purposes will not only affect the immigration clearance, but also be liable to prosecution. The ImmD appealed to all passengers to safeguard their travel documents and not to make any form of alternation.