The UK government has abandoned plans requiring workers to sign up for its digital ID scheme to prove their right to work.
The decision comes after widespread backlash against the controversial policy, which aimed to introduce a free digital ID for UK nationals and residents to help curb illegal migration.
The scheme was first announced last year by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who said: “You will not be able to work in the United Kingdom if you do not have digital ID. It’s as simple as that.” He had set a target of 2029 for its introduction, clarifying that while the digital ID would not be mandatory in general, it would be necessary to verify eligibility to work.
However, after officials briefed the British media on Tuesday, Finance Minister Rachel Reeves confirmed that the digital ID would no longer be compulsory for employment. She stressed that the right to work would still require some form of digital verification, whether a digital ID card, e-visa, or e-passport. “We’re pretty relaxed about what form that takes,” Reeves said.
The policy, unveiled by Starmer in September, had faced strong opposition from rival political parties and segments of the public. Critics, including some far-right figures, spread unproven claims that the scheme would increase government control, track vaccinations, monitor carbon footprints, and restrict access to travel and food—claims that officials have firmly denied.
Reeves confirmed the government’s U-turn on Wednesday, marking a retreat from one of the most contentious elements of Starmer’s immigration and employment agenda.
