In a move to curb illegal immigration, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has unveiled a plan to introduce free digital IDs for citizens and residents.
The scheme, announced on Friday, is designed to simplify access to key services while acting as a stringent tool against illegal workers.
The new digital ID, which will be stored on individuals’ smartphones, aims to streamline access to essential services like driving licenses, childcare, and welfare benefits. Importantly, the ID will not require individuals to carry physical identification, but will be mandatory for proving one’s right to work in the UK.
“The introduction of this digital ID is an enormous opportunity for the UK,” Prime Minister Starmer said, emphasizing that it will help “stop those with no right to be here from finding work.” By curbing illegal workers’ ability to earn money, the government hopes to tackle one of the key “pull factors” attracting migrants without proper documentation.
The move comes as the Labour Party faces mounting pressure over immigration policies ahead of its annual conference. In recent years, the UK has resisted implementing mandatory identity cards, but a shift in public opinion has seen increasing support for such a system.
Prime Minister Starmer framed the digital ID as a win for both national security and ordinary citizens, promising to make life simpler while reinforcing the country’s immigration framework.
“We are doing the hard graft to deliver a fairer Britain for those who want to see change, not division,” he stated.
