Immigration review resumes as My Number checks reach campus festivals

Developments

Two official updates show policy at different stages. Immigration officials have returned to sector-level design work, while a digital identity tool is moving into specific public-facing events.

1. An ISA meeting starts the next phase of sector-policy work

The Immigration Services Agency held its 14th expert meeting on September 9. Its agenda covered follow-up on previously approved policies, the start of work toward revisions to sector-specific operating policies, and a report concerning a temporary certificate-of-eligibility measure in the Specified Skilled Worker food-service field. This was a meeting and publication of materials—not a blanket new rule—and minutes were still pending. Anyone whose application may be affected should use current ISA instructions for the exact status, sector, procedure, and effective period. (Read the meeting page)

2. Five university festivals will use limited-data My Number age checks

The Digital Agency says five university festivals will use My Number cards for alcohol age verification between September 12 and November 23. A physical card can be read without a PIN; for the iPhone version, the in-person app shows only whether the visitor is at least 20, rather than revealing a name, address, or exact age. Some venues will support only the iPhone card, and procedures differ by festival. (Read the announcement)

What readers should take away

Official publication does not always mean an immediately effective nationwide rule. Meeting agendas signal policy work, while implementation notices may apply only to named venues. Check scope, status, and effective dates before acting.