ID cards for Kiwis working in UK

New Zealanders wanting to work in the United Kingdom from next year will be issued with special identity cards as part of a crackdown on illegal immigration there.

The compulsory Identity Cards for Foreign Nationals are already being issued to sponsored skilled workers applying to extend their stay in the UK.

From April next year, anyone working in Britain for six months or more will need a card.

Authorities say the cards, containing photograph, fingerprints, and personal details, are expected to make travelling, accessing medical services, and setting up bank accounts quicker and easier.

British High Commission spokesman David Rose said the system was introduced as part of a crackdown on illegal immigration and employment.

"These things are really designed to help legitimate migrants and legitimate employers. The only people who really have any need to worry are the illegal migrants or illegitimate employers," he told the New Zealand Herald.

Any employer or university found to be employing or educating a person without a card risked harsh penalties, including large fines and prison sentences, Mr Rose said.

British citizens would be required to get their own National Identity Card.