The government is working with the UK Home Office to develop a digital immigration permissions system, mirroring the UK’s E visa scheme, while affirming control over its own immigration policies.
Treasury Minister Dr Alex Allinson outlined the work to the House of Keys, where concerns about costs, operational challenges, and document security were raised.
Currently, Isle of Man residents with settled status, also known as indefinite leave to remain, hold physical immigration documents.
The UK’s E visa system, which links permissions to an online account, is being adapted for the Isle of Man through the Digital Passport, Immigration, and Nationality Services programme.
Costs
When questioned about the financial impact, Dr Allinson said: “The costs have yet to be determined. As I said, our work is ongoing with the UK in terms of adapting their system to look after our requirements.”
However, he emphasised the importance of local oversight: “It is absolutely vital that the Isle of Man remains in control of its own immigration policies and how they are implemented.”
Members also raised concerns about border control challenges, particularly for the small number of Isle of Man residents with settled status.
Dr Allinson acknowledged differences in how status is evidenced but noted: “I haven’t heard of any issues so far that have prevented people from moving between the various jurisdictions.”
Savings
The digitalisation programme extends beyond visas to include passports, with the minister highlighting long-term savings: “Digitalisation has some significant long-term cost savings incorporated in it.”
The Isle of Man government plans to provide further updates as the scheme progresses. For now, physical documents remain valid, and no immediate changes to immigration policies are expected.
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