The UK’s recent announcement to introduce a mandatory digital ID system by 2029 has sparked significant debate(UK plans compulsory digital ID as populist pressure over immigration rises ALJAZEERA
2025-09-27). This initiative aims to strengthen border security and curb illegal employment, requiring all citizens and residents to possess a digital ID for employment purposes. The ID will be stored on smartphones via a new “digital wallet” on the gov.uk app, incorporating personal data such as name, date of birth, nationality, and residency status.
Critics, including civil liberties groups and political parties like the Liberal Democrats and Reform UK, argue that the system could lead to mass surveillance, digital exclusion, and data security risks. They also question its effectiveness in combating illegal employment, particularly in cash-based sectors.
Comparison with Japan’s Zairyū Card
Japan’s Zairyū Card, introduced in 2012, serves as a residence card for foreign nationals, containing biometric data and residency information. Unlike the UK’s proposed digital ID, the Zairyū Card is a physical document and is not linked to a digital wallet or required for employment verification. While both systems aim to manage foreign residents, the UK’s approach is more integrated into digital infrastructure and employment regulation.
Global Trends in Foreign National Digital Identification
Globally, digital identity systems are evolving, with varying approaches and implementations:
- Estonia: Pioneered digital ID systems, offering secure access to government services and digital signatures.
- India: Implemented the Aadhaar system, providing a unique identification number to residents, facilitating access to services.
- European Union: Developed the eIDAS framework, mandating digital identity wallets for citizens and businesses by 2026.
These systems aim to streamline services and enhance security but also raise concerns about privacy and data protection.
Conclusion
While Japan’s Zairyū Card focuses on foreign residents’ status, the UK’s proposed digital ID system aims to integrate identity verification into the digital economy and employment sectors. This reflects a broader global trend towards digital identity systems, each with its own set of challenges and considerations.