Jersey's new population law due in February

A new law to help control Jersey's population is expected to come into force in February.

The new control of housing and work law will introduce registration cards and a population register.

It was due to come into force last month but was held up waiting for approval from the UK Privy Council, which oversees States decisions.

The law has now been approved by the Privy Council and registered in Jersey's Royal Court.

Under the new law, people moving to Jersey or islanders changing job or moving house will need a registration card.

'Limiting immigration'

It will replace the social security card and will need to be shown when buying or renting property and to new employers.

Assistant Chief Minister Senator Paul Routier said the law would bring in "more effective controls over migrants" working in Jersey.

He said: "This legislation is essential in achieving our strategic objectives of limiting immigration and securing employment for locally qualified people."

Senator Routier said there would be a public information campaign before the new law was introduced.