Starting this Sunday, Hongkongers aged 60 and above will be required to use personalised JoyYou Cards to access the subsidised HK$2 (26 US cents) public transport fare, according to recent announcements from authorities. This change is part of a broader public transport concession scheme designed to benefit elderly residents.
MTR to Increase Staff at Key Stations
The MTR Corporation announced on Tuesday that it would be increasing staff presence at selected stations, particularly those frequently used by elderly passengers. This measure is aimed at promoting awareness of the new requirement and providing assistance with the JoyYou Card application process. MTR staff will also distribute application forms to help residents transition smoothly to the new system.
Application Process and Timeline
The process to apply for the JoyYou Card takes approximately four weeks. As a result, residents who have not yet submitted their applications will not be able to benefit from the HK$2 concession fare when the policy takes effect this Sunday. An MTR spokesperson emphasized the importance of applying as soon as possible, urging eligible individuals to complete their submissions promptly to avoid missing out on the discount.
JoyYou Card Introduction in 2022
The JoyYou Card scheme was introduced by the government in 2022 with the goal of offering public transport fare concessions to residents aged 65 or above, as well as to individuals with disabilities. After a two-year transitional period, the scheme is now fully implemented, and the Transport Department has issued reminders to the public that the cards will be mandatory for accessing the concession fare from Sunday onward.
Penalties for Using Old Octopus Cards
Passengers aged 65 or above who continue to use their existing elderly or personalised Octopus cards will only receive half the adult fare discount instead of the full HK$2 concession. Meanwhile, passengers aged between 60 and 64 will be required to pay the full fare unless they apply for and use the JoyYou Card.
Important Reminders for Current JoyYou Card Holders
The MTR Corporation has also issued reminders to those who already possess JoyYou Cards. Cardholders are encouraged to add value to their cards and ensure they are switched and ready to use before Sunday in order to avoid long queues at stations. First-time JoyYou Card users will need to charge a minimum of HK$50 to activate the HK$2 concession fare.
This initiative aims to make public transport more affordable for elderly Hongkongers, while ensuring a smoother and more efficient fare collection system for the MTR and other public transport providers across the city.