Passports & immigration
ID cards for foreign nationals
ID cards are being rolled out for foreign residents in the UK.
ID cards for foreign nationals are the first part of the national identity scheme to roll out in the UK.
We believe the cards will be a critical element to our border security, and a useful tools for people who want to protect themselves from identity theft.
Who can apply for a card
The cards are being phased in over the next few years. Currently, you can apply for an ID card if you are a foreign student, or the foreign spouse of a British citizen.
You can go through the application process - including having photos and fingerprints taken - at one of seven ID card centres around the country (in Croydon, Sheffield, Liverpool, Solihull, Cardiff, Glasgow and Armagh).
Find out more
Find out more about applying for an identity card on the UK Border Agency website (new window).
