The British government has initiated the dispatch of emails to individuals possessing physical immigration documents, known as biometric residence permits (BRPs), urging them to establish a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account for accessing their eVisa, a digital confirmation of their immigration status.
According to a statement by the government, these invitations will be distributed in stages before the process becomes available to all BRP holders by summer 2024.
The government emphasized that this initiative is pivotal to its endeavors to enhance national security by mitigating the risks associated with fraud, loss, and misuse of physical documents, bolstering border security, and offering a more secure method to verify immigration status.
“It is both free and straightforward for individuals holding physical and paper documents to set up a UKVI account for accessing their eVisa. Establishing a UKVI account will not alter, affect, or revoke individuals’ existing immigration status or their entitlements in the UK.”
eVisas offer significant advantages to both the UK public and visa applicants. They provide enhanced security measures and cannot be misplaced, stolen, or tampered with like physical documents. Accessible from anywhere and in real-time, they empower individuals to manage their data efficiently and promptly update the Home Office with any changes to their contact or passport information.
Similar to biometric residence permits (BRPs) or cards (BRCs), eVisas are securely linked to the holder’s unique biometric details, offering protection against identity fraud.
Verification of immigration status can be swiftly and easily performed through a secure online service on GOV.UK, streamlining processes for individuals and public bodies. Already, selected public entities can automatically verify eligibility for public services through system-to-system checks.
With millions of customers already utilizing eVisas, particularly through schemes like the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS), the gradual phasing out of physical documents such as BRPs or BRCs is underway, with most set to expire by the end of 2024.
This transition to eVisas aligns with global trends, as many countries opt for digital immigration status forms over physical documents.
Existing eVisa holders need not take any action during this transition but should continue updating their UKVI account with any personal information changes, such as passport or contact details. While traveling internationally, individuals should carry their valid physical immigration documents until their expiration date.
By 2025, physical immigration documents will be entirely phased out as the UK moves towards a fully digital border and immigration system. This transition promises heightened security, cost-efficiency, and convenience for both the public and status checkers.
To avoid travel delays, eVisa holders should inform the Home Office about any intended passport usage through the online “Update your UK Visas and Immigration account details” service on GOV.UK if not already linked to their account.
As part of the broader overhaul of the UK border and immigration system, the government has introduced the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme. ETA provides digital authorization for travelers visiting the UK without needing a visa, allowing advanced screening to prevent potential threats.
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