UNITED KINGDOM – Update on the transition to eVisas for biometric residence permit and biometric residence card holders

December 23, 2024

By: Jonathan Fetting, Senior Associate, Newland Chase Advisory

As we previously reported, by the end of 2024, the United Kingdom aims to replace all physical proof of immigration status with a digital-only status, known as an eVisa. The transition to eVisas is a crucial part of the UK government’s efforts to create a digital, efficient border and immigration system. By replacing physical immigration documents with digital proof of status, the authorities aim to improve user experience while enhancing the security and efficiency of the immigration process.

The imminent expiry of most biometric residence permits (BRP) and biometric residence cards (BRC) on December 31, 2024 has resulted in a high eVisa adoption rate among users of physical documents. More than 3.1 million people have now taken the necessary action to access their eVisa.

Temporary measures for expired BRPs and BRCs.

To support a seamless shift to eVisas, airlines and other carriers can temporarily accept BRPs and EU Settlement Scheme BRCs expiring on or after December 31, 2024, as valid evidence of travel authorisation to the UK. This measure will remain in place provisionally until March 31, 2025, subject to review. Passengers will still undergo standard immigration checks, and individuals attempting to enter the UK with an expired underlying immigration status may be denied entry.

Steps to transition to an eVisa

Individuals who have not yet transitioned to an eVisa are encouraged to do so before the end of the year to take advantage of its many benefits. Millions of people, including all EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) status holders, already use eVisas. Parents or guardians of children with a BRP are also urged to act on behalf of their child.

Those with indefinite leave to remain who rely on an ink stamp or vignette in their passport to demonstrate their rights can continue using these documents as usual, including for travel. However, they are encouraged to apply for a No Time Limit (NTL) status to access an eVisa and enjoy its advantages.

Switching to an eVisa is free and offers increased convenience and security. Unlike physical documents, eVisas cannot be lost, stolen, or altered. An eVisa allows users to verify their immigration rights instantly and securely. Importantly, transitioning to an eVisa does not affect or alter an individual’s current rights or immigration status.

Preparing for Travel with an eVisa

If you have an eVisa sign in to your UKVI account to check that your eVisa is linked to your current passport or travel document. You should make sure your personal information and your passport details in your UKVI account are up to date well in advance before you travel. You may be delayed or denied boarding by carriers if your information is not correct. You will still need to carry your current passport with you.

You should also get a share code to prove your immigration status before you travel. Your carrier may ask for it. A share code is valid for 90 days.

If your BRC issued through the EU Settlement Scheme or your BRP expires on or after December 31, 2024, as noted above, you may be able to use your expired document to travel to the UK until 31 March 2025 if it expires on or after December 31, 2024, and you still have permission to stay in the UK. You should carry your expired document with you – your carrier may ask to see it. You should also set up access to your online immigration status (eVisa) if you have not done so already and get a share code to prove your immigration status.

As always, don’t hesitate to reach out to your Newland Chase dedicated contact or submit an inquiry here should you have any specific questions regarding this announcement.

This immigration update is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal or scenario-specific advice. Furthermore, it is important to note that immigration announcements are subject to sudden and unexpected changes. Readers are encouraged to reach out to Newland Chase for any case- or company-specific assessments.