16 October 2014
A six-member delegation led by Frontex (the European Agency for the Management of Operational Cooperation at the External Borders of the Member States of the European Union) visited the Immigration Department (ImmD) from October 13 to 16. This agency of the European Union (EU) provides assistance to EU member states and countries within the Schengen area in enhancing their border control and in the implementation of automated immigration clearance services.
During the visit, the Frontex delegation met the Director of Immigration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki. It also visited the facilities and various sections of the ImmD, including the e-Channel service at the Hong Kong International Airport, Lok Ma Chau Control Point and Lok Ma Chau Spur Line Control Point. ImmD officers shared their experience in implementing the e-Channel service to provide a better understanding of the immigration clearance system in Hong Kong.
Through interaction and exchange with the immigration authorities of other countries and regions, the ImmD hopes to share Hong Kong's experience in the implementation of the e-Channel service and to promote the mutual use of automated immigration clearance services with other countries and regions, thus providing greater travel convenience for Hong Kong residents.
The Director of Immigration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki (centre), meets the visiting Frontex delegation at Immigration Headquarters.
The Frontex delegation tours the automated clearance system at Lok Ma Chau Spur Line Control Point.