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ARTICLE · 26 MARCH 2026

UK Government Opens Consultation On Digital ID Scheme

Lewis Silkin
Lewis Silkin
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Lewis Silkin

Lewis Silkin

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On 26 September 2025 the Prime Minister announced plans for a new digital ID scheme with two...

United KingdomImmigration
Stephen O'Flaherty
Stephen O'Flaherty
Abi Adetifa
Abi Adetifa
Fran Allton
Fran Allton
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The government is currently consulting on proposals to introduce a national digital ID scheme, with responses being accepted until 5 May 2026. Although ministers have backtracked on initial plans to make digital IDs mandatory for right to work checks, the proposal may still have a significant impact on how people can prove their identity, as well as their eligibility to work and to access goods and services in the UK.

Background

On 26 September 2025 the Prime Minister announced plans for a new digital ID scheme with two stated aims: combating illegal working and making it easier for people to access government services. The announcement included a commitment to making digital ID mandatory for right to work checks by the end of the parliament (i.e. by July 2029 at the latest).

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