The United Kingdom (UK) Government urges migrants to switch from physical immigration documents to digital eVisas as soon as possible.
The transition is part of modernizing the country’s immigration system and improving border security.
The Home Office has extended the validity of physical documents like Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) beyond the end of the year.
However, everyone with a UK immigration status must create a UK Immigration and Visa (UKVI) account and link it to their eVisa immediately.
Advocacy groups are also stepping in to help migrants navigate the shift by providing clear advice and support.
UK migrants should switch to eVisas now
The Home Office has urged migrants to switch to eVisas before the original deadline of 31 December 2024.
It emphasized the security, convenience, and efficiency of digital statuses, which replace physical documents.
Switching to an eVisa is also free and does not affect one’s immigration status in the UK and accompanying conditions.
However, the government recognized the issues of switching to eVisas and decided to extend the validity of physical immigration documents.
This includes tackling challenges faced by vulnerable groups, such as older adults and those without access to the Internet.
It has invested funds to be used by advocacy groups and other migrant organizations to help migrants switch to eVisas.
The government has also simplified the No Time Limit (NTL) application process for those who hold UK immigration status other than BRPs.
This process is intended for legacy paper document holders, those with ink-stamped passports and vignette stickers, and people with lost BRPs.
For a smoother transition, carriers will accept expired BRPs for travel to the UK until 31 March 2025.
This temporary provision, subject to an ongoing review, will remain valid as long as the migrants’ immigration status is valid.
Travelers whose immigration status is valid but whose BRP expires on or after the end of the year should carry their expired cards when they travel early in 2025.
This transitional measure is intended to provide additional reassurance to travelers during the early phase of this transition.
Another option is for travelers to create a View and Prove share code via their UKVI account before they travel. This code is valid for 90 days.
Failing to switch to eVisas before these dates could result in issues proving immigration rights or traveling internationally.
New bust card provides essential eVisa help
To assist migrants during the transition, the advocacy groups the3million and Migrants Organise have developed a pocket-sized “bust card.”
Based on experience, they believe the government’s updates may not reach all carriers, check-in staff, and other involved parties.
The bust card offers key advice to migrants on using and proving their eVisa status.
It includes:
- Rights Overview: A reminder that eVisas grants the same rights as BRPs, including access to work, housing, and healthcare.
- Steps to Troubleshoot: Instructions for dealing with technical difficulties or service providers unfamiliar with the eVisa system.
- Travel Information: Details on what documents are needed for travel.
Travelers can show the card to third parties involved as it states:
- “If I am unable to show you my eVisa or provide you with a share code, for example, because there are technical difficulties:”
- “You are still obligated to provide services that I am entitled to, and you must contact the Home Office directly to verify my status.”
- “Airline carriers are also obligated to allow me to board using my expired BRP or BRC until at least 31 March 2025.”
While the government’s push for digitization aims to modernize the system, technical and logistical challenges have raised concerns.
Advocacy groups and immigration experts have reported confusion among border officials and airlines about the validity of expiring BRPs.
Many people also feel uneasy relying only on digital immigration status or without having a tangible document to show to authorities.
This bust card is a practical tool to ensure migrants know what to do if issues arise.
It also lists resources and contact details for support in case migrants encounter issues with their eVisa.
Benefits of having an eVisa and how to switch
The eVisa system offers several clear advantages over physical documents:
- Enhanced Security: Digital statuses can’t be lost, stolen, or tampered with.
- Convenience: They allow visa holders to access and share their immigration details instantly.
- Simplified Verification: Employers, landlords, and public service providers can easily verify immigration status online.
To switch to an eVisa, here are the following steps to take:
- Create a UKVI account using the details on the BRPs. Those with immigration status other than BRPs should first apply for an NTL to receive a BRP and proceed to create their UKVI account.
- Use login details to access one’s immigration status online.
- Check your details to ensure that all personal and contact information and passport details are accurate.
- Save your eVisa details and generate a share code to share your status with employers, landlords, or public service providers when necessary.
Those traveling in and out of the UK should check their eVisa to see if it shows the correct information.
Any inconsistencies or errors in the eVisa must be reported to the Home Office immediately.
Embracing a digital immigration future
The UK Government’s push for eVisas marks a significant step toward a fully digital immigration system.
While the transition has challenges, it promises greater security and convenience for migrants.
With enough resources, collaboration with advocate groups, and extended deadlines, migrants have the tools to navigate this change successfully.
Seema Malhotra MP, Minister for Migration and Citizenship, stressed, “Switching to an eVisa is not just about compliance; it’s about making life easier for everyone involved in the immigration process.”