18 November 2025 - Harnessing the potential of new digital forms of identification - Oral evidence

Earlier this year, the Prime Minister announced the introduction of mandatory digital ID to prove the right to work in the UK by the end of the Parliament. eVisas have already been introduced to show proof of immigration status. Digital driving licenses are soon to be piloted and are planned to be fully rolled out by the end of 2027. The Government has also introduced a new GOV.UK wallet for smartphones where official digital documents can be stored in a single account. 

The Government has argued that stronger enforcement of employment checks would help deter illegal migration. Digital documents could also make services easier to access and improve efficiency. However, fears have been raised that digital ID systems could be easily exploited by hackers, erode privacy and unfairly exclude people with low digital capability. 

In this opening session of the inquiry, the Committee will explore the key potential benefits and risks of digital ID, with a particular focus on the potential benefits for managing the immigration system and reducing crime. This will include the challenges that need to be overcome to deliver an efficient and effective digital ID system, as well as the potential negative impact of mandatory ID systems.