UK to Replace All Physical Visa Documents with eVisas by June 2025

The United Kingdom is bidding adieu to physical visa documents, ushering in a new era of digital travel with the full rollout of eVisas by June 2025.

This groundbreaking move by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) promises a streamlined, secure, and hassle-free experience for millions of travellers and residents. Forget the stress of lost or stolen documents; your immigration status will soon be just a click away.

What Is an eVisa?

An eVisa is a secure online record of a person’s immigration status and conditions of stay in the UK. Unlike physical documents, it cannot be lost, stolen, or tampered with. Travellers and residents can access their eVisa through a UKVI account, making it easier to prove their status at the border and to employers, landlords, and other authorities.

Millions of individuals, particularly those under the EU Settlement Scheme, have already transitioned to eVisas since 2018. Now, this system will become the standard for all UK visa holders.

What Happens to Existing Visa Documents?

With the full implementation of UK eVisas, here’s what will change for those holding physical documents:

1. BRPs and BRCs: Existing Biometric Residence Permits and Biometric Residence Cards cards remain valid until expiry. New cards stop after October 31, 2024. Plan for digital transition if your card expires after this date.

2. Passport Endorsements (Indefinite Leave): Holders of indefinite leave endorsements must transition to eVisas. Create a UKVI account to update your status digitally, ensuring continued legal residence.

3. EU Settlement Scheme Biometric Residence Cards (BRCs): If your BRC expires after December 31, 2024, carry it until June 1, 2025. After, use eVisas, ensuring smooth travel.

4. Windrush Scheme Beneficiaries: Digital evidence options will be provided. UKVI will assist with the transition, ensuring access to digital proof of immigration status.

Also Read: UK Extends Grace Period for eVisa Transition Until March 2025

Why is the UK switching to eVisas?

The move to eVisas is driven by security, efficiency, and convenience. Key benefits include:

• Reduced Risk: No physical documents mean no risk of loss, theft, or forgery.
• Faster Processing: Visa approvals no longer require waiting for physical documents.
• Seamless Verification: Employers, landlords, and travel authorities can check visa status instantly using a share code.
• Efficient Border Control: Entry procedures will be quicker and more straightforward at UK airports and borders.

How to Access and Use an eVisa

Visa holders will need to create a UKVI account, which will serve as their primary access point for immigration status details. The platform allows users to:

• View visa details, including type, expiration date, and conditions.
• Generate a 90-day share code to verify immigration status for work or housing.
• Update passport details to ensure smooth travel.

Who Needs to Take Action?

This transition applies to a broad range of individuals, including:

• BRP and BRC holders: Must register for a UKVI account and update their details.
• Those with passport endorsements: Individuals with indefinite leave to enter (ILE) or indefinite leave to remain (ILR) stamped in their passports must apply for an eVisa.
• EU Settlement Scheme residents: If their BRC expires on or after December 31, 2024, they must continue carrying it while traveling until June 1, 2025, as they switch to an eVisa.
• New visa applicants: Future UK visa holders will automatically receive eVisas instead of physical documents.

What If You Need Help?

For those unfamiliar with digital platforms or who need assistance, UKVI offers support services to guide applicants through setting up their UKVI account and accessing their eVisa. Additional help is available for vulnerable individuals to ensure a smooth transition.

For more information, visit the official UKVI eVisa guidance page: UKVI Online Immigration Status eVisa.

Final Words

With the upcoming shift to a fully digital system, travelers and visa holders should prepare ahead to ensure a seamless experience. Registering for a UKVI account early will be crucial in adapting to this significant change in UK immigration policy.