HK E-channel
Sep 9, 2013 | 9:58 am
#16
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Sep 9, 2013 | 12:22 pm
#17
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I find the barcode sticker a bit odd, especially since it doesn't appear to be used for anything. That is, when you use the automated gates, you have to open your passport to the data page and insert it, and the machine scans the OCR characters at the bottom of that page.
Sep 9, 2013 | 3:30 pm
#19
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The passport stays flat in the code reader when the bar code is on the ourside and the passport is closed. Another ^ HK efficiency.
If you have used passport reader at the check in kiosk you will appreciate this minor detail.
If you have used passport reader at the check in kiosk you will appreciate this minor detail.
Sep 9, 2013 | 6:11 pm
#20
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Sep 9, 2013 | 6:15 pm
#21
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Really? That's now how I remember it, and I remember it specifically because I was surprised that it didn't use the sticker. But of course I could simply be mistaken. I will pay more attention next time.
Sep 9, 2013 | 6:23 pm
#22
formerly known as Tad's Broiled Steaks
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However, did I read that HK no longer requires that visitors (the non e-channel types) fill out the entry/exit form?
Sep 9, 2013 | 6:26 pm
#23
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An HK inefficiency: Hoping to use the e-channels at Luo Hu only to revert back to the Foreign Passport queues as the e-channels had a significant number of mainlanders. Going through the border crossings when students also are makes it even worse.
However, did I read that HK no longer requires that visitors (the non e-channel types) fill out the entry/exit form?
However, did I read that HK no longer requires that visitors (the non e-channel types) fill out the entry/exit form?
Sep 9, 2013 | 7:08 pm
#24
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An HK inefficiency: Hoping to use the e-channels at Luo Hu only to revert back to the Foreign Passport queues as the e-channels had a significant number of mainlanders. Going through the border crossings when students also are makes it even worse.
However, did I read that HK no longer requires that visitors (the non e-channel types) fill out the entry/exit form?
However, did I read that HK no longer requires that visitors (the non e-channel types) fill out the entry/exit form?
Sep 10, 2013 | 12:51 am
#25
Join Date: Jul 2013
Posts: 92
I'm quite sure that I had to take my passport out of the cover as it could not read the barcode. But next month I have at least to chances to try it.
Sep 10, 2013 | 8:16 am
#26
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If you have to take your PP out of the "cover" then you meant a passport holder/sleeve which you placed your PP into that was not originally part of the issued PP.
The scanner will not scan the barcode properly if it is behind one of these sleeves. One should always scan the passport bare, cover or pages to get a proper scan.
Sep 30, 2013 | 8:57 am
#28
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from experience yesterday... the e channel enrolment office is to the left hand side bank of immigration booths, and it located directly before baggage reclaim 5 I think (might be 4, but it's one of those). ifmyoumwere coming from elsewhere you'd find carousel 5 and then turn left.
what I didn't realise (and I got caught by this) is that passports with less than 6 months validity become ineligible for e channel. it allowed my to enter the first barrier, but on taking the fingerprint it rejected and an officer had to come get me.
with less than 6 months you have to fill out a form and enter HKG the normal way. thankfully there were no queues on arrival.
apparently I could register my other passport, then transfer the e channel back to my preferred passport when I get it renewed... although I wasn't entirely sure that the officer knew what I was asking (I'd much rated have it on the passport I frequently use).
what I didn't realise (and I got caught by this) is that passports with less than 6 months validity become ineligible for e channel. it allowed my to enter the first barrier, but on taking the fingerprint it rejected and an officer had to come get me.
with less than 6 months you have to fill out a form and enter HKG the normal way. thankfully there were no queues on arrival.
apparently I could register my other passport, then transfer the e channel back to my preferred passport when I get it renewed... although I wasn't entirely sure that the officer knew what I was asking (I'd much rated have it on the passport I frequently use).
Not the greatest signup process, and I may have wasted my time, as I'll have to do it again next time.
Nov 16, 2013 | 7:12 am
#29
Join Date: Jul 2013
Posts: 92
just to round this up.
Did today the ultimate test and the machine just cares about the sticker on the back of the passport.
1st try with passport cover (which covered the sticker) I placed the passport with picture side on the scanner- that didn't work
2nd try I placed the closed passport without cover on the scanner so only the sticker was readable - worked
Did today the ultimate test and the machine just cares about the sticker on the back of the passport.
1st try with passport cover (which covered the sticker) I placed the passport with picture side on the scanner- that didn't work
2nd try I placed the closed passport without cover on the scanner so only the sticker was readable - worked
Nov 16, 2013 | 10:47 am
#30
formerly known as Tad's Broiled Steaks
Join Date: Jun 2004
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Doubt it, with crowds that big. Besides, there's always a (pointless) HK immigration official directing traffic right after passing the temperature check area.