Overview
- Downing Street signalled that government-issued digital ID will not be the sole route for right‑to‑work verification, with electronic passports and visas expected to be acceptable.
- The government says digital right‑to‑work checks will become mandatory and that details will follow a public consultation launching shortly.
- Officials indicate the programme still requires primary legislation, with implementation targeted toward 2029.
- Home Office minister Mike Tapp rejected claims that mandatory elements were dropped, saying there will be mandatory digital checks for work, underscoring mixed messaging.
- Opponents branded the move a U‑turn after sustained protests and a petition reported at over three million signatures, citing privacy, security and inclusion concerns.