Inmate visits go digital as Hong Kong launches full video visit e-booking

The Correctional Services Department (CSD) on Tuesday fully implemented its Video Visit e-Booking Service, offering families and friends of persons in custody an additional channel to conduct visits.

Under the new arrangement, visitors can book video visits up to seven days in advance through the General Visit e-Services Platform.

Video visits may be conducted at one of five Multi-purpose Family and Rehabilitation Service Centres located in Mong Kok, Shau Kei Wan, Sheung Shui, Tuen Mun, and Sha Tin, as well as at the Lai Chi Kok Video Visit Centre.

The department said visitors may also use the Approved Hand-in Articles e-Ordering Service, which allows them to purchase approved items online, eliminating the need to shop in person and bring the items during physical visits.

The full rollout follows a phased trial of the video visit service for declared visitors, which began at various correctional institutions on November 11 this year.

“Positive responses have been received since then as the service offers visitors a more convenient and people-oriented visiting experience,” the department said.

The CSD emphasized that the video visit service is intended to enhance public convenience by providing an additional visiting option. Physical visits to correctional institutions will continue to be available, allowing visitors to choose arrangements based on their individual needs.