
The Bill had passed without hindrance through the lower House of Commons.
The EU citizens must apply to stay after Brexit, and if successful are given an electronic code to present to anyone from landlords to airline staff who may demand proof of their status.
“In the real world, in respect of permanent residence, proof of immigration status is in physical documentation,” Jonathan Oates, a member, said.
The Lords voted to give EU citizens physical documentation, a change that must now be approved by the House of Commons in a vote on Wednesday.