The move was confirmed in a written question to the UK Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, asking how the scheme would affect people in the Crown Dependencies.
SIT Minister of State Ian Murray confirmed that the UK government had announced plans for a new digital ID available for all UK citizens and legal residents aged 16 and over.
The British Nationality Act 1981 confers British citizenship on individuals with close connections to the United Kingdom.
‘Holders of passports issued in the Bailiwick of Jersey and the Bailiwick of Guernsey are full British citizens and so will be eligible for the new digital ID,’ he said.
‘As self-governing jurisdictions, it will be for the Bailiwick of Jersey and the Bailiwick of Guernsey governments to determine whether any future legislation on digital ID should be extended to their jurisdictions.’
Policy & Resources president Lindsay de Sausmarez has previously said the committee was seeking clarity on any implications for islanders and no decision around mandatory digital ID has been made in Guernsey.
The new UK digital ID scheme is aiming to combat illegal working while making it easier for the vast majority of people to use government services.
The ID would be mandatory for right to work checks in the UK.
It will include name, date of birth, information on nationality or residency status, and a photo – as the basis for biometric security – just like an eVisa or passport. A consultation will consider whether including additional information, like address, would be helpful.
Guernsey does have its own right to work permit scheme, with employers having to apply for employment permits on behalf of employees.
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