News: 6th March 2008
The introduction scheme for National Identity card will be launched for foreign nationals in 2008 and British citizens in 2009.
The scheme will begin in November this year with introduction of identity cards for non-EEA foreign nationals; initially starting with the catagories include, foreign nationals seeking to enter or remain in the UK as a student or on a marriage visa.
Fingerprints will be collected from foreign nationals before they are issued with a card, which will show the details of the holder’s immigration status and entitlements – whether they are allowed to work or access benefits, and how long they can stay in the UK.
From 2009, the scheme will be extended to UK citizens. The first ID cards will be issued to people working in specific sensitive roles or locations where verification of identity will enhance the protection of the public. This will start in the second half of 2009, with the issuing of identity cards to those working airside in the country’s airports.
From 2010 young people will be able, on a voluntary basis, to get an identity card, which will assist them in proving their identity as they open their first bank account, take out a student loan or start employment. Later that year the scheme will be opened to voluntary applicants of any age.
From 2011/12, all passport applicants will also be registered on the scheme as they apply for the new biometric passports containing fingerprints.
British citizens enrolled on the National Identity Register will be able to choose whether to have a passport or an ID card or both.
The National Identity Register will hold a small amount of personal biographic details separately from biometric fingerprints and photographs, making it incredibly difficult for anyone to steal or exploit another’s identity.
The Government has already proved its ability to deliver a sound basis for the National Identity Scheme. Fingerprinting is already required for visa applicants to the UK and over ten million British e-passports have been issued since the end of 2006, containing an encrypted digital version of the holder’s personal details and a photograph on a secure chip. Below is the summary:
Introducing compulsory identity cards for foreign nationals
Filed under: Identity card, News | Tagged: British citizen, fingers print, Identity cards, non-EEA foreign nationals
