eVisa rollout begins with immigration documents replaced by 2025 The UK government has initiated the rollout of eVisas, a digital proof of immigration status, which will replace physical immigration documents like Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) by 2025. Starting from April 17, 2024, the Home Office has begun sending emails to all those with physical immigration documents, inviting them to create a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account to access their eVisa. The process will open to anyone in the UK who holds physical immigration documents in summer 2024. eVisas are central to making the UK border safer by reducing the risk of fraud, loss, and abuse of physical documents, thereby strengthening border security. This move to eVisas is in line with other countries that have replaced or are planning to replace their physical immigration documents with digital forms of immigration status. Creating a UKVI account to access an eVisa is free, straightforward, and will not change, impact, or remove customers’ current immigration status or their rights in the UK. eVisas are secure and cannot be lost, stolen, or tampered with, unlike physical documents. They can be accessed anywhere and in real-time, putting customers in control of their own data and allowing them to swiftly update the Home Office with new contact or passport details. People checking immigration status will be able to conduct one quick and simple check using a secure online service on GOV.UK. Selected public bodies are already able to access immigration status to determine eligibility for public services automatically through system-to-system checks. Physical immigration documents will be gradually phased out by 2025, as the UK transitions to a fully digital border and immigration system for new and existing customers. This will deliver enhanced security and cost savings for the UK public and greater convenience for customers and status checkers. Customers who already have an eVisa should tell the Home Office about any passport on which they intend to travel using the online Update your UK Visas and Immigration account details service on GOV.UK, if this is not already linked to their account, to avoid delays when traveling. The move to eVisas is a significant step towards modernising the UK's border and immigration system, providing greater convenience and flexibility to residents and public bodies. .At Kash Legal Services, we recognize the transformative potential of this evolution and remain committed to supporting clients in navigating the complexities of immigration law amidst this digital transition.
