As technology continues to influence every aspect of our lives, it is no surprise that immigration processes are also embracing the digital realm. UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) are set to replace physical documents with online records of your immigration status via the eVisa.
As technology continues to influence every aspect of our lives, it is no surprise that immigration processes are also embracing the digital realm. UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) are set to replace physical documents with online records of your immigration status via the eVisa.
The aim of the eVisa is to eliminate the hassle of physical documentation. The obvious advantage of such a system is that we can forget about the trouble of lost or stolen documents, as proving your immigration status is a few clicks away.
In order to access your eVisa, you would need to create a UKVI account, which will be linked to your passport. Through this account, you are permitted to manage and update your information effortlessly (your contact details or other personal information, for example). By using the “view and prove service” and generating a share code, you can seamlessly share your status with third parties, such as employers or landlords, giving them time-limited access to your immigration information.
Prior the expiry date of your BRP on 31 December 2024, UKVI are set to release guidance on how to create your UKVI account and gain access to the eVisa. If you possess a biometric residence card (BRC) and have been granted status under the EU Settlement Scheme, you should already possess an eVisa and there will likely be no need of further steps to acquire one. Information on accessing and utilising your eVisa (digital status) can be found in your grant letter or email. However, in the meantime, you should continue to carry your BRC when traveling internationally.
If you are a holder of a physical document as proof of your UK immigration status, you should look out for further updates from UKVI in order to fully grasp how you can make this switch towards digital documentation.
How Gherson can assist
Gherson’s Immigration Team are highly experienced in advising on UK visa matters. If you have any questions arising from this blog, please do not hesitate to contact us for advice, send us an e-mail, or, alternatively, follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn to stay-up-to-date.
The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position. Gherson accepts no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog. For formal advice on the current law please do not hesitate to contact Gherson. Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Gherson.
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