UK to Introduce Mandatory Digital ID Cards for Workers

Britain announced on Friday that it will roll out a mandatory digital ID card system for British citizens and residents starting new jobs, as part of efforts to curb illegal immigration.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer, unveiling the plan, said in a statement: “This will make it harder to work illegally in this country and will strengthen the security of our borders.” Reports of the proposal had circulated earlier.

Immigration consistently ranks as one of the top concerns among UK voters, and Starmer has faced mounting pressure to stop migrants crossing illegally from France in small boats.

The government said the digital ID will be stored on people’s mobile phones and will become a required part of the checks employers must carry out before hiring. Over time, the system is expected to extend to other areas, including access to childcare, welfare, and tax records.

Political opponents have criticized the plan, arguing that it will not deter migrants and could infringe on civil liberties.

The Labour Party previously attempted to introduce ID cards under Tony Blair in the 2000s, but the initiative was abandoned by his successor, Gordon Brown, after fierce opposition on civil liberty grounds.

Since the abolition of wartime ID cards after World War II, Britons have not been issued identity documents, relying instead on passports, driving licences, and other official papers to prove their identity when required.