Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

UK to Mandate Digital ID Cards by 2029 Amid Privacy Concerns

9/30/2025

28 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

UK Mandates Digital IDs

The United Kingdom plans mandatory digital ID cards for all citizens and legal residents by 2029.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer says the ID is required to work and for border security.
The ID would be app-based, storing name, birth date, and residency status, with no physical card.
Opposition cites privacy concerns; petitions exceed 1.6 million, and cybersecurity risks are raised.

Summary

Switzerland Approves e-ID

Swiss voters approved electronic ID cards by 50.4%, reversing the 2021 rejection.
The system will be optional and store data on smartphones, addressing fears of centralized data control by private companies.
The Swiss government says the electronic ID (e-ID) will streamline access to services.
The UK government's move to mandatory digital IDs has intensified privacy debates in both countries.

1 of 2

UK Mandates Digital IDs

The United Kingdom plans mandatory digital ID cards for all citizens and legal residents by 2029.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer says the ID is required to work and for border security.
The ID would be app-based, storing name, birth date, and residency status, with no physical card.
Opposition cites privacy concerns; petitions exceed 1.6 million, and cybersecurity risks are raised.

1 / 2