Overview
- About 1.8–2.0 million former service personnel can now access a digital Veterans Card in the GOV.UK One Login app, with the physical card remaining available.
- The credential is protected by device biometrics and follows a federated model that keeps data with issuing departments, with ministers insisting there is no central database or tracking.
- The card works for in‑person proof of status at launch, with online use and features such as QR or electronic verification slated for upcoming updates.
- The government plans to require a digital credential to prove the right to work by the end of this parliament, facing cross‑party criticism, a petition exceeding 2.8 million signatures, and opposition from the Scottish government.
- Officials say digital driving licences will enter development this year and most government credentials should be available digitally by the end of 2027, with industry estimates putting setup costs near £1 billion.