The Home Office has unveiled a prototype ID card, a few weeks
before the first cards will be issued to foreign migrants.
The credit-card sized
ID card will have an electronic chip with biometric details of
the holder, including fingerprints and a digital facial image.
From November 25, foreign nationals will have to apply for the
cards when applying to stay in the UK. The cards will replace the
current system, which involves the applicant getting a stamp or
sticker in their passport when they are granted permission to
stay.
In 2009 the cards will be issued to British and foreign
nationals working in sensitive roles or locations, starting with
airport workers. Young people will be targeted in 2010, and in
2011-2012, the government will "start to enrol British citizens at
high volumes".
Home Secretary Jacqui Smith said,
"
ID cards for foreign nationals will replace old-fashioned paper
documents, make it easier for employers and sponsors to check
entitlement to work and study, and for the
UK Border Agency to verify someone's identity. This will
provide identity protection to the many here legally who contribute
to the prosperity of the UK, while helping prevent abuse."