Support grows for UK government’s eVisa campaign

As the clock ticks to the change in the United Kingdom (UK) from physical immigration documents to an eVisa - an online record of a person’s UK immigration status; community organisations and immigration experts are throwing their weight behind the UK government’s campaign to advise people about the change.

The latest Home Office statistics show that over three million people have now made the switch from using physical immigration documents to an eVisa.

The transition will be a more convenient and secure way for UK visa holders to show their immigration status by replacing Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs), passports containing a visa vignette sticker or ink stamp (for those with indefinite leave to enter or remain) and Biometric Residence cards (BRCs) with an eVisa. For those who may be less familiar with digital technology, there is support including through the gov.uk/eVisa website, Assisted Digital, and a network of national and local organisations who can provide specialist support.

The Caribbean & African Health Network (CAHN), RAFFA International Development Agency, and House on the Rock are just some of the community organisations in England that have mentioned that they are keen to support community members with the transition to an eVisa to ensure no one gets left behind.

Pastor Temi Odejide from House on the Rock told us “People in the community may have questions regarding the transition to eVisa, and not feel confident that they know what steps to take. As an organisation working on the ground in the community we are keen to direct people to the different sources of help and guidance available, so they know they are supported in this process.”

Managing Director and Immigration Specialist - Dele Odusanya tells us what he advises as the next steps to get the process started.  “If you have a BRP or BRC card, you might’ve already gotten an email or text about setting up your UKVI account and getting access to your eVisa before the end of the year. If you have a “legacy document” which means a visa stamp or vignette sticker in your passport showing indefinite leave to remain or enter, that doesn’t have an expiry date, you are encouraged to make an NTL application at www.gov.uk/eVisa. And don’t worry if you need a bit of extra help. Support is available online, on the phone and even face-to-face if needed.”

If you are affected by these changes, here are the top five reasons why the transition to an eVisa will make viewing and proving your current immigration status easier:

1. Instant, anytime access

Those completing the transition will be able to access their visa details instantly from any digital device, so there’s no need to carry extra physical immigration documents. The eVisa can’t be lost or stolen and eVisa holders can easily verify their immigration status and share details with third party checkers such as employers or landlords as needed.

2. Simpler travel

Traveling to and from the UK will become smoother too. Border Force officials and carriers, including airlines, rail and ferry operators will be able to access a visa holder’s immigration status electronically, speeding up the process and avoiding any confusion about stamps or stickers. It’s one less thing to worry about when people are planning a trip.

To help ensure a smooth transition to eVisa, airlines and other carriers may accept BRPs and EUSS BRCs expiring on 31 December 2024 or later as evidence of permission to travel to the UK, provisionally until 31 March 2025. This will be kept under review.

Passengers travelling to and from the UK 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. An EUSS BRC is a BRC that was issued following a successful application to the EU Settlement Scheme.

3. Better security and peace of mind

Unlike passport stamps or vignette stickers, which can wear out, be lost or be tampered with, the eVisa is stored safely online.

4. Easier updates and renewals

Using an eVisa streamlines this process, allowing you to update your personal details through the secure UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account. Everything can be handled digitally, saving you time and effort.

5. The transition is free and has no effect on your immigration status

An eVisa is an electronic record of a person’s immigration status. It doesn’t change the person’s immigration status or conditions of their permission to enter or stay in the UK. People can still use their valid documents to show their status but are encouraged to make the transition to an eVisa.