UK to issue ID card for foreign nationals

The UK border agency will begin issuing compulsory ID cards from November 25 to nationals of countries outside the European Economic Area who apply to remain in the UK either as students or on the basis of marriage or partnership.
A release of the British HC said the move is part of the UK's universal new National Identity Scheme, delivering a simple proof of identity, which is first being rolled out to visa nationals legally entitled to live and work in the UK.
Head of Migration Unit at the British HC in Dhaka, Audrey Stocks, said, “This is good news for Bangladeshis. ID cards will simplify access to a range of services and actually make it easier for legitimate migrants to demonstrate their entitlements to live and work in the UK. Greater identity credibility for migrant workers is a distinct advantage.”
The ID cards, replacing old-fashioned documentation, will make it easier and quicker for employers and sponsors to check entitlement to work and study. It can also be used as a form of identification (if the holder wishes to open a bank account in the UK). The holder is not required to carry their card at all times, but they may need to show it in order to access services and will need it to enter and leave the UK.
Through the use of 'biometrics' (finger print scans and photos), the introduction of universal ID cards will also help to protect migrants against identity abuse. The new credit-card sized document will show the holder's photo, name, nationality, date and place of birth, and the type of visa issued.
Within three years, all those coming to the UK for more than six months on a visa or extending their stay in the UK will have a card. It is estimated that by the end of 2014-15 about 90% of all foreign nationals will be issued with an ID card.