UK to Completely Replace Physical Visa Documents with eVisa in 2025
In a bold move toward a fully digital immigration system, the United Kingdom will officially replace all physical visa documents with eVisas by June 2025. This transformation, spearheaded by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), marks the complete shift from traditional biometric residence permits (BRP), biometric residence cards (BRC), passport endorsements, and vignette stickers to a secure and efficient online platform.
What is an eVisa?
An eVisa is an online record of an individual’s immigration status and conditions of stay in the UK. Unlike physical documents, an eVisa cannot be lost, stolen, or tampered with. This digital status is accessible via a UKVI account, which allows users to prove their immigration status seamlessly at the border, to employers, landlords, and other relevant authorities.
Since 2018, millions of individuals—especially those under the EU Settlement Scheme—have already transitioned to eVisas. Now, the UK is making it the standard for all visa holders.
What Happens to Existing Physical Documents?
- BRPs and BRCs: These documents will remain valid until their expiration date but will no longer be issued after October 31, 2024.
- Vignette Stickers & Passport Stamps: Those with visa vignettes and indefinite leave endorsements in passports must switch to an eVisa.
- Windrush Scheme Beneficiaries: Individuals eligible under the Windrush Scheme will be given an opportunity to apply for evidence of their immigration status digitally.
Why is the UK Replacing Physical Visa Documents?
The move to eVisas is driven by several factors, including security, convenience, and efficiency. Some of the key benefits include:
- Eliminating the risk of loss or theft: No more misplaced BRPs or expired vignette stickers.
- Faster processing: No need to wait for or collect physical documents after an application decision.
- Seamless verification: Travelers, employers, and landlords can instantly verify immigration status via share codes.
- Border efficiency: Easier and quicker immigration checks at UK entry points.
How Will the eVisa Work?
Visa holders will be required to create a UKVI account, which will serve as their gateway to their immigration status. This online system will allow them to:
- View visa details such as type of permission, expiration date, and conditions of stay.
- Generate a share code (valid for 90 days) to prove their immigration status to employers or landlords.
- Update passport details to ensure smooth travel without unnecessary delays.
Who Needs to Take Action?
The transition to eVisas applies to a broad range of visa holders, including:
- BRP and BRC holders: Those with biometric residence documents must create a UKVI account and update their details accordingly.
- Individuals with passport endorsements: Those with indefinite leave to enter (ILE) or leave to remain (ILR) in their passports need to apply for an eVisa.
- EU Settlement Scheme residents: If their BRC expires on or after December 31, 2024, they must carry it when traveling until June 1, 2025, while transitioning to an eVisa.
- New visa applicants: Future UK visa holders will automatically be issued eVisas instead of physical documents.
What if You Need Assistance?
For those unfamiliar with digital platforms or lacking internet access, the UKVI provides additional support services (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/online-immigration-status-evisa) to assist in setting up UKVI accounts and accessing eVisas. Vulnerable individuals may receive extra guidance to ensure they can successfully navigate the transition.
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