The UK Government has announced a new digital identity (UK Digital ID) scheme.
It will require people to hold a digital ID to work, rent, and access certain public services, with registration through a secure digital wallet and physical alternatives for those who cannot use mobile technology. The rollout will establish a new compliance landscape for employers, landlords and individuals and creates immediate operational and legal obligations.
What this means for individuals
Individuals will need a verified digital identity linked to official records such as name, date of birth, nationality, and immigration status before taking up employment or renting privately. Individuals with insecure immigration status or expired documentation will face increased barriers to lawful work and housing. Those who cannot or choose not to use a digital wallet should secure the promised non-digital verification option as soon as guidance is published.
Individuals should:
• Check current identity documents and ensure they are valid and complete.
• Register for the Digital ID wallet when guidance and registration open.
• Retain evidence of identity and immigration status and request written confirmation of any verification decision.
• Seek legal advice promptly if their status is uncertain or a verification result is disputed.
What this means for employers and landlords
Employers and landlords will be expected to use the new digital ID system to confirm right to work and right to rent, replacing many existing document checks. Employers must update recruitment and onboarding procedures to incorporate digital verification workflows. Landlords and letting agents must adapt tenancy checks and tenancy management processes to avoid compliance risks.
Early adoption of secure, privacy-focused verification processes will reduce transitional risk and operational friction.
Timeline and compliance risk
The Government intends to roll out the scheme in the current parliamentary term, creating a practical compliance deadline for businesses and individuals. Organisations that delay updating processes will face operational disruption, increased compliance costs, and potential legal exposure for failing to verify entitlement to work or rent. Early adoption of secure verification processes will reduce transitional risk.
Immediate actions for organisations and individuals:
- Run an audit of current ID-checking processes.
- Update policies to include Digital ID acceptance criteria and fallback routes.
- Train staff on verification handling and dispute escalation.
- Engage vendors and secure contractual and security assurances.
- Communicate clear guidance to staff, tenants and applicants about registration and non-digital options.
- Seek legal advice early for complex or uncertain immigration cases.
How Lexify Solicitors can help
Not sure how the UK’s digital ID scheme or recent immigration changes affect you, your family, or your business? Speak to an immigration lawyer today. Lexify Solicitors’ experienced solicitors provide practical compliance advice and representation for extensions, refusals, overstays, and pathways to settlement.
Contact Lexify Solicitors on 0330 088 8740