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 (EUSS) BRCs expiring on or after 31 December 2024, as valid evidence of travel authorisation to the UK. This measure will remain in place provisionally until 31 March 2025, subject to review.Passengers will still undergo standard immigration checks but will be required to prove their immigration status to airline carriers. As such, individuals undertaking travel from the UK are advised to retrieve a share code before travel, as this is valid for 90 days. It is important to flag that individuals attempting to enter the UK with an expired immigration status will be denied entry.

Individuals who have not yet transitioned to an eVisa are advised to create their UKVI accounts before 31 December 2024. Individuals will also need to ensure that the UKVI account is linked to their current passport.If you have a BRC and you were granted EUSS status, you will already have an eVisa and do not need to take any further action. However, if your leave expires on or after 31 December 2024, as noted above, you can still continue to travel with your expired BRC until 31 March 2025, provided you still have permission to live and work in the UK. You should carry your expired document with you, as your carrier may ask to see it. You should also apply for a share code prior to travelling.

If you did not create a UKVI account at the time you applied for status under EUSS, then you should set up access to your online immigration status (eVisa).

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 however, encouraged to make a No Time Limit (NTL) application to access an eVisa to reap the benefits. This is because passport endorsements will also be transitioned to the eVisa model.

If you are a Commonwealth citizen with the right of abode in the UK, you do not need an eVisa. You can continue to use your issued certificate of entitlement to the right of abode in the UK, in your passport as normal.

Switching to an eVisa is free and simple, offering increased convenience and security. Unlike physical documents, eVisas cannot be lost, stolen, or altered and 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.

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 will need to ensure that your personal details are up to date at all times.

Should you require assistance with regards to eVisas whilst travelling you may contact the passenger support helpline on:

• 0800 876 6921 – free of charges 
• 0203 337 0927 – may incur charges

The passenger support helpline will be available 24/7 for people who are travelling imminently. However, the UKVI contact centre staff operating this service will not be able to resolve technical issues or contact carriers.

If you require assistance with technical issues, please use the UK Government’s ‘Ask about an eVisa, UKVI account or sharing your immigration status’ service.  

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.