The eVisa rollout has caused quite a few problems with migrants struggling to link their immigration status to the electronic system. In response, the Home Office has updated its guidance and postponed the rollout.
The UK government’s transition to eVisas represents a significant step towards a fully digital, streamlined border and immigration system. By replacing physical immigration documents with digital proof of status, the move is designed to enhance efficiency, improve security and provide greater convenience for users. eVisas, which are already in use by the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) status holders, will eventually replace Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) and Biometric Residence Cards (BRCs) entirely. The Home Office plans to implement eVisas for visit visas around the latter part of 2025.
With less than a month to go before most BRPs and BRCs expire on 31 December 2024, the urgency for migrants to switch to eVisas has grown. The government reports that over 3.1 million people have already accessed their eVisa, benefiting from its accessibility and security.
Despite these positive outcomes, the transition has been accompanied by technical challenges. Some users have reported issues accessing their eVisa, with error messages preventing them from viewing their status. This has caused anxiety for individuals needing to prove their rights to live, work, travel or access services in the UK. Employers and landlords, who often rely on physical documents for verification, have also experienced difficulties adapting to the new system.
The complexity of the digital platform, which pulls data from multiple government databases, has contributed to errors and delays. Moreover, the initial planned rollout date of 1 January 2025—a global bank holiday—had raised significant concerns about the Home Office’s ability to address technical issues promptly.
These challenges highlight the need for robust interim measures and effective communication to mitigate risks during this transition. By way of interim measures, the Home Office has since confirmed that the eVisa rollout has been postponed to 31 March 2025 and until that date, migrants can continue to rely on their expired BRPs or BRCs. The advice, however, remains unchanged – to try and set up your eVisa account as soon as possible.
At Gherson, we understand the complexities of this transition and are here to help. Whether you need assistance with switching to an eVisa, navigating access issues or understanding your obligations as an employer, our expert team is on hand to guide you. Contact us today for tailored advice and support as the UK moves towards a fully digital immigration system.
Updated 6 December 2024
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