Everything You Need to Know About eVisas
UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) are moving to a digital system. According to the UK Government website, the following documents will soon be discontinued:
- biometric residence permits (BRP)
- biometric residence cards (BRC)
- passport endorsements, such as indefinite leave to enter wet ink stamps
- vignette stickers in passports, such as entry clearance or visa vignettes
Instead, you will receive an “eVisa.” This is an online record that shows your immigration history, your current immigration status, and the conditions of your permission (for example, no recourse to public funds).
As a matter of fact, the eVisa system is already in use. According to the UK Government website, the system was established in 2018. Those who applied to the EU Settlement Scheme, for example, received an eVisa instead of a physical immigration document.
Why is the system moving online?
There are many benefits of eVisas, such as:
- Security – because there is no physical document, it cannot be lost, stolen, or tampered with
- Efficiency – you can see your eVisa immediately and don’t need to wait for a document to be mailed to you
- Ease – you can easily prove your immigration status at the UK border and with third parties such as employers and landlords
If your physical document expires on or before 31 December 2024
If you have a biometric residence permit (BRP) that expires on 31 December 2024, you are eligible for an e-Visa. Before the expiry of your BRP, UKVI will tell you how to create a UKVI account and access your e-Visa. If they forget to contact you, you can create an account yourself – more details are coming later this year. You can sign up for updates here.
If you already have a UKVI account, simply sign in and click “view and prove” in order to share your immigration status with third parties.
Please keep in mind that your eVisa is linked to your passport or ID card. Therefore, you need to make sure that your personal information on your UKVI account is up to date at all times.
If your physical document expires after 31 December 2024
You should keep using your physical document to prove your status. You cannot create a UKVI account or access your eVisa yet.
What if I have another type of physical document?
If you have indefinite leave to enter or indefinite leave to remain (also known as settlement) and you currently prove your rights through a different type of physical document, such as a wet-ink stamp in your passport or a vignette sticker, then you should make a ‘no time limit’ (NTL) application.
If your NTL application is successful, you’ll get a BRP to prove your rights. You should carry your BRP, along with your passport, when travelling internationally. Once you have a BRP, you’ll be able to create a UKVI account to access your eVisa later this year.
What if I travel outside the UK?
Currently, you should take your passport with you as well as any physical documents that show your immigration status, e.g. a BRP card or letter showing indefinite leave to remain. When you return to the UK, Border Force may ask for evidence that you have immigration permission, so having your documents at hand can be helpful.
However, starting in 2025, the UK Government website says that you’ll only need your passport to re-enter the UK.
If you recently got a new passport but aren’t sure if the details are up to date on UKVI, make sure to bring your expired passport with you just in case.
Our experienced team of immigration advisors is always here to make your immigration journey easier. If you have an immigration or nationality enquiry, call us today for more information at 0208 995 3556. You can also email info@descartessolicitors.co.uk.
By Tiffany Carpenter
20.03.2024