The government has announced proposals to implement a digital ID system across the UK, which will be mandatory for anyone wanting to work here. The government hopes it will curb opportunities for those who are seeking to work illegally or who are already working illegally in the UK, while providing easy access to public services for those who are eligible. In this article, Gabi Nair and Myles Thomas outline the proposed changes.
What is the digital ID scheme?
The digital ID system promises to be a secure digital credential available to all British citizens and lawful residents. Digital identification will be stored on individuals’ mobile phones, similar to how the NHS app and contactless payment systems operate. It will serve as official verification of a person’s identity and immigration status in the UK. There is no requirement for individuals to carry their ID or to produce it when asked, but current plans mean that digital ID will be mandatory in proving your right to work. Since making the announcement in September, the government has clarified that the service will not be applied retrospectively and will only be mandatory for those applying for a job after the service is introduced.
When is it happening?
The government has stated the scheme will be rolled out by the end of the current parliament, i.e., before the next general election in August 2029. Public consultation will be launched later in 2025 to determine the scope and design of the scheme.
What data will be held?
The data will be authoritative proof of who someone is and their residency status in this country. This data will include a person’s name, date of birth, information on nationality or residency status and a photo as the basis for biometric security. The consultation will assess if any additional information is needed, such as an address.
Why is this scheme being introduced?
Government ministers argue that the lack of such a scheme is incentivising migrants to enter the UK unlawfully. They claim that the introduction of this scheme will deliver a firm message that if you come to the UK illegally, you will be barred from employment.
The ID will provide a verified, stricter and more authoritative way of checking someone’s identity. For example, this will prevent forged or fake documents (such as passports) from being used and provide a more consistent approach to verifying a worker’s identity.
Access to information will also be made easier as everything will be in one place, eliminating paperwork and reducing ID verification waiting times, which could be done in seconds rather than days or weeks. This will also reduce reliance on the government. The change will tie in with the UK immigration system as a whole, which has seen a shift towards digital systems and verification, e.g., eVisas.
Public perception and concerns
There have been mixed reactions to the proposed changes. The public may find it promising to have an easier means of proving their identity when accessing services ranging from childcare and welfare, to driving licences and tax records. There are parallels in other countries that have proved successful when using digital ID to access services. For example, in Australia, citizens can access a range of private services with digital ID, reducing the need for multiple separate accounts and paper records.
It’s also thought that digital ID could improve security and reduce identity theft—for example, if lost or stolen, digital credentials can easily be revoked and reissued.
Some of the criticism levelled at the proposals is that the approach could normalise identity checks, allowing for a more intrusive system. This raises concerns around privacy, data security and government overreach. Other concerns include a lack of clear evidence that a digital ID scheme reduces irregular migration. For example, in France and Germany, who both have long running ID schemes, illegal working still seems to be an issue. There are also concerns over exclusion for digitally marginalised groups who are unable to access and use the ID. However, the government has ensured that people with physical or cognitive disabilities can use it and they are planning on integrating assistive technologies like screen readers and voice demands.
There is a current online petition against the implementation of the digital ID, which states:
We think this would be a step towards mass surveillance and digital control and no one should be forced to register with a state-controlled ID system.
The petition currently has close to three million signatures. However, the government responded to the petition on the 2 October 2025 stating:
We will introduce a digital ID within this Parliament to help tackle illegal migration, make accessing government services easier and enable efficiencies.
It seems that the government is doubling down on digital ID, and it looks likely that they’ll push forward with its implementation, despite the criticism and well-supported petition.
We’ll keep our clients updated on the proposed changes and any influence they might have on the immigration landscape.
How can we help?
If you have any queries in the meantime, please contact our specialist immigration advisers.
