Digital rollout of the Veterans Card: what you need to know
Veterans can now apply for a digital version of their identification cards. Available to nearly two million ex-Service personnel, the ID cards can now be downloaded and accessed on smartphones.
It’s the latest rollout on Veterans ID by the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and the Office for Veterans Affairs. However, the MoD has clarified that the optional digital card will ‘initially be available for in-person use’, with its functionality set to expand over the coming months to enable online use.
The digital cards, which we first announced plans for in January, will include information already featured on the physical cards – name, photo, latest service and date of birth – in a handy digital format stored on your smart device.
The cards will enable former Service personnel to confirm the Veteran status to access a range of services, including:
- Registering for healthcare services and opportunities
- Access supported housing
- Career support with Op ASCEND, a government-backed service
- Access discounts and services offered by supporting organisations.
Veterans can download their digital cards via the GOV.UK One Login or apply on the UK Government site. The application process requires the Veteran’s service number, national insurance, approximate dates for start and end of service, as well as a recent digital passport-style photograph.
Further information is available on the UK Government website.