Proposal to require passengers to carry ID and introduce proportionate ID verification on Isle of Man Steam Packet Journeys

Overview

The Department of Home Affairs is consulting on a proposal to require all passengers travelling with the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company to carry identification and to introduce proportionate ID verification checks during the check-in process.

This measure aims to strengthen the Island's defences against organised crime, improve passenger data accuracy, and align with security practices found elsewhere in the Common Travel Area. Exemptions or special arrangements may be made for certain groups, such as minors or those without standard ID.

Why your views matter

Securing Our Island is a key strategic aim under Our Island Plan. This consultation outlines a number of important steps already taken to secure our Island, such as the phased implementation of Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) and the deployment of drug detection dogs at the sea terminal. However, while these steps have increased the security and safety of our Island, certain vulnerabilities remain which can be exploited.

The Isle of Man Government aims to further enhance the safety and security of the Island and address evolving threats by introducing ID requirements and proportionate ID verification during check-in for Isle of Man Steam Packet Company journeys.

By doing so in a robust, fair and proportionate manner - we seek to strengthen border security, support law enforcement efforts, and maintain public confidence in the Island’s reputation as a safe and secure place to live and visit.

Why we are consulting

Feedback from this consultation will help shape the final policy approach and ensure that proposed changes strike an appropriate balance between public safety, efficiency, and the Island’s commitment to proportionate entry controls. The Department has engaged with the IOMSPC on this proposal prior to the launch of this consultation and has committed to consulting with the public about the approach to be taken.

Reasonable adjustments and alternative formats

The department is committed to equal opportunities and our aim is to make our documents easy to use and accessible to all.

We will take steps to accommodate any reasonable adjustments and provide such assistance as you may reasonably require to enable you to access or reply to this consultation.

If you would like to receive this document in another format or need assistance with accessing or replying to this consultation, please email PolicyAndAdmin.DHA@gov.im or telephone +44 1624 694300.

Responding to this consultation

You can respond to this consultation online by clicking on the 'Online survey' link below.

Alternatively you can download a paper version of this consultation in the 'Related' section below and email it to PolicyAndAdmin.DHA@gov.im or post it to:

IOMSPC ID Consultation
Head of Executive Office,
Department of Home Affairs Headquarters,
Tromode Road,
Douglas,
Isle of Man,
IM2 5PA

What happens next

After the consultation period closes on Friday, 8 June 2026, the Department of Home Affairs’ Policy and Administration Team will review and collate all feedback received via the Consultation Hub, email, and post. This process will ensure that responses are considered in line with data protection and equality requirements and that the views of residents, businesses, and other stakeholders are fully reflected.

A comprehensive 'summary of responses' document will be prepared and published on the Consultation Hub once it has undergone Departmental review and approval.

This summary will outline key themes, concerns, and suggestions raised during the consultation, and help shape the Department’s final policy recommendations regarding the introduction of mandatory ID carriage and proportionate ID verification for Isle of Man Steam Packet Company journeys.

Any resulting policy changes or updates to operational procedures will be communicated to the public, with further opportunities for engagement as necessary.