The Assistance to Hong Kong Residents Unit of the Immigration Department works closely with the Security Bureau, Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China in the HKSAR, Chinese diplomatic and consular missions in overseas countries and the Office of the HKSAR Government in Beijing to provide practical assistance to Hong Kong residents in distress outside Hong Kong. During the year, 4 201 requests were handled.

To enhance the service rendered to Hong Kong residents in distress outside Hong Kong, the Immigration Department has introduced a four-digit, easy-to-remember hotline number 1868 with effect from August 15.