The Home Office has unveiled its plan to transition to a fully digital immigration system by 2025, marking a significant shift in how immigration status is documented in the UK.
From 1 January 2025, traditional physical documents such as Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs), Biometric Residence Cards (BRCs), and vignette visa stickers will be replaced by eVisas – digital records of immigration status accessible online.
For those holding BRPs or other physical immigration documents expiring on 31 December 2024 but with valid leave beyond this date, it is crucial to transition to an eVisa before the deadline. This change does not alter your immigration status or the conditions of your stay but modernises how this status is evidenced.
Employers must also stay informed and ensure their employees transition to eVisas accordingly, potentially necessitating fresh Right-to-Work checks.
One critical update pertains to individuals with Indefinite Leave to Enter or Remain, particularly those using wet-ink stamps or vignette stickers in passports. These individuals must apply for a BRP before 31 December 2024, as this is a prerequisite for converting to an eVisa.
This transition period might present challenges, including issues related to software compatibility and user experience. The Home Office plans to directly contact those affected, providing instructions on setting up an online account to access their eVisa. However, if you do not receive communication from the Home Office by year-end, seek assistance promptly.
During 2024, individuals must continue travelling with their current BRPs and passports. For those already holding an eVisa, there is no need to create a new UKVI account. To verify your account status, visit the gov.uk website.
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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