Checking identity cards for foreign nationals
This page explains the identity cards we will start to issue to some categories of foreign nationals from 25 November 2008 and your obligation to check these identity cards.
For more general information on identity cards for foreign nationals, why we are introducing them and how we will do this, see Identity cards for foreign nationals.
We will phase in identity cards for all foreign nationals from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland over the next three years. From 25 November 2008, we will start issuing compulsory identity cards to those who apply for an extension of their permission to stay in the United Kingdom as students or as the husbands, wives or partners of permanent residents. Other applicants will continue to receive a sticker (vignette) in their passport, and the two systems will run alongside each other for a few years.
If you are licensed to sponsor skilled foreign workers from outside the EEA or Switzerland under the points-based system, the identity cards will help you to check a migrant worker's right to work in the United Kingdom. When we implement Tier 4 for students during 2009, this will also apply to educational establishments that sponsor students.
Purpose of the identity card
The card is evidence of the holder's nationality, identity and status in the United Kingdom. It will help you to understand what the migrant is entitled to and his/her right to work or study here.
Checking the identity card
Sponsors are expected to look at the card carefully. It will show the person's entitlement to work, study or access public funds. The Guidance on identity cards for foreign nationals (PDF 312K opens in new window) shows how you can check a card to ensure it is valid. This will help you to become familiar with its design and recognise the card when you are shown one. It also gives information on the card's security features, to help you make your checks.
Although you are not legally required to check documents, we recommend that you do so for everyone you wish to employ. It will enable you to establish an excuse against payment of a civil penalty for employing an illegal worker, shows your recruitment process is open and transparent, and ensures your recruitment practices do not discriminate against anyone because of their race.
How does this change what I do now?
The introduction of identity cards does not mean you must change the checks you currently make on foreign nationals' right to be in the United Kingdom. Gradually, they will simply replace existing vignettes and other immigration status documents with a card that is more secure.
See also
Terms explained
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Civil penalty
A requirement to pay money that can be imposed for an offence without the need for a court conviction.
Related documents
- Guidance on ID cards for foreign nationalsPDF 170K opens in a new window