The UK government is transitioning to eVisas for a more digital, streamlined border and immigration system. The eVisas will replace physical immigration documents with digital proof of immigration status.
Most biometric residence permits (BRPs) and biometric residence cards (BRCs) will expire on December 31, 2024. However, to help ensure a smooth transition to eVisas, airlines and other carriers will be able to accept BRPs and EU Settlement Scheme BRCs expiring on December 31, 2024, or later as evidence of permission to travel to the UK, provisionally until March 31, 2025.
Before travelling overseas, UK visa holders who do have access to their eVisa should check it has all the correct information and they should sign into their online UKVI account to check their eVisa is linked to their current passport. They will still need to carry their current passport or travel document and it is recommended they also get a share code to prove your immigration status before travelling, as the airline or another carrier may ask to see it.
What to Expect
Passengers will remain subject to the usual immigration checks and requirements, and anyone seeking to enter the UK whose underlying immigration status has expired will be liable for refusal of entry.
Visa holders are encouraged to complete the switch before the end of the year to make the most of the benefits of using an eVisa. This includes parents or guardians of children who use a BRP, who should take action on their child’s behalf.
Anyone with indefinite leave to remain who uses an ink stamp or vignette in a passport to prove their rights can continue to use their documents as they do today, including for travel. These people are encouraged to make a No Time Limit application to access an eVisa to reap the benefits.
Erickson Insights & Analysis
The UK government has expressed its commitment to ensuring the transition to eVisas remains as simple as possible. Listening to feedback and concerns raised by visa holders and stakeholders, the Home Office has confirmed there will be greater flexibility on carriers (such as airlines) accepting expired physical UK immigration documents, to ease the digital transition for those travelling internationally.
Erickson Immigration Group will continue to monitor developments and share updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or case-specific questions.