From January 6th, 2010 onwards, it has become mandatory for all sponsored skilled workers to get an identity card if they are intending to extend their UK Visa under Tier 2 category. Also, highly skilled and temporary workers applying for an extension of stay under Tier 1 or Tier 5 would be required to apply for an identity card under the new regulations commencing from the end of year 2010.

The identity cards confirms the legal status of an applicant, his right to work or study under the UK Laws governing his visa and provides a proof for the nationality and identity of the applicant.

By April 2011, any applicant planning to extend their stay in the UK or is intending to visit the place for a minimum of six months would need to apply for an identity card as an integral part of the application process. The process of issuing the identity cards started on November 25 2008.

These changes do not apply for people in other immigration categories along with international applicants seeking indefinite leave to remain as well as settled population. For more info, hire the services of an Immigration veteran.