ArticleBRP to eVisa: FAQs

As the UK Home Office takes significant strides towards a fully digital immigration system, the days of physical Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) are numbered. By the end of 2024, eVisas will replace BRPs entirely, marking a significant shift in how visa holders manage and prove their immigration status.

This transition reflects the Home Office’s “digital by design” strategy aimed at simplifying the immigration process, enhancing accessibility, and reducing dependency on physical documentation. But what does this mean for visa holders? Let’s delve into the details, addressing key concerns and offering practical guidance.

What Is an eVisa, and Why Is It Being Introduced?

An eVisa is an online record of an individual’s UK immigration status, replacing the need for physical documents like BRPs. Accessible through a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account, eVisas streamline verification processes for employers, landlords, and border authorities. The system is part of a broader effort to modernize UK immigration, enhancing convenience while mitigating risks associated with lost or stolen documents.

While BRPs have served as the standard for years, the transition to eVisas aligns with advancements in digital technology and global trends towards paperless systems. The change aims to improve efficiency, reduce administrative burdens, and integrate with other digital services, such as eGates and airline verification systems.

Key Dates to Remember

1. 26 September 2024: Replacement BRPs will no longer be issued for lost or stolen permits.
2. 31 October 2024: The Home Office will cease issuing new BRPs altogether. New visa applicants will receive eVisas instead.
3. 31 December 2024: All existing BRPs will expire, regardless of their stated validity. From 1 January 2025, eVisas will be the only recognized proof of UK immigration status.

Accessing and Using Your eVisa

The process of transitioning to an eVisa is straightforward:

1. Create a UKVI Account: Register using your BRP number and personal details.
2. Verify Your Identity: Use the UK Immigration: ID Check app to scan your BRP and take a selfie for verification.
3. Link Your Passport: Connect your passport to your UKVI account to facilitate border checks and travel.
4. Use the “View and Prove” Service: This online tool enables visa holders to share their status with employers, landlords, and other relevant parties.

The UKVI platform is user-friendly and free to use, with detailed video guides available for those requiring additional support.

Why Does My BRP Expire on 31 December 2024?

Even if your visa is valid beyond 31 December 2024, all BRPs are being phased out by this date as part of the transition to digital-only eVisas. This does not affect your visa’s validity; however, you must ensure you have a UKVI account and eVisa access to avoid disruptions in proving your status.

Addressing Concerns About the Digital Transition

While the transition to eVisas offers numerous advantages, including ease of access and enhanced security, some challenges may arise:

• Digital Exclusion: Individuals unfamiliar with technology may struggle to navigate the new system. Dedicated support from legal professionals and Home Office guidance is crucial.
• Verification Delays: Employers and landlords adapting to the new process may face initial difficulties, emphasizing the importance of raising awareness.
• Travel Preparedness: Linking a passport to an eVisa is essential to ensure smooth entry at UK borders, especially for frequent travelers.

For those who still hold indefinite leave to remain endorsements in their passports, the Home Office recommends applying for No Time Limit (NTL) status to obtain an eVisa.

What If My BRP Is Lost or Stolen?

From 26 September 2024, replacement BRPs will no longer be issued. If your BRP is lost, stolen, or contains outdated details, you must update your UKVI account directly. The new digital system eliminates the need for physical replacements, streamlining updates and reducing costs for visa holders.

How Does This Affect the Right to Work and Rent?

The process for verifying the right to work and rent remains largely unchanged. Employers and landlords will use the “View and Prove” service to confirm your eVisa status. Ensuring your UKVI account is up to date is essential to avoid delays or complications.

Benefits of the eVisa System

The eVisa system offers several advantages over physical BRPs:

• Enhanced Security: No risk of loss or theft.
• Ease of Access: Immigration details are accessible online at any time.
• Simplified Updates: Changes to passport details, name, or nationality can be updated digitally without the need for a physical reissue.
• Integrated Travel: Border officers and airlines can verify status directly through the UKVI system, reducing paperwork.

What Action Should BRP Holders Take Now?

If your BRP is valid beyond 31 December 2024, you should act promptly to transition to an eVisa. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Set up your UKVI account and verify your details.
2. Familiarize yourself with the “View and Prove” service for sharing your status.
3. Ensure your passport details are linked to your eVisa for seamless travel.

Looking Ahead

The transition from BRPs to eVisas marks a pivotal moment in the modernization of UK immigration. While the shift poses challenges for some, it offers undeniable benefits in security, accessibility, and convenience. By acting early, visa holders can ensure a smooth transition and avoid any disruptions come January 2025.

For those seeking additional support or guidance, our immigration experts are here to assist. From setting up UKVI accounts to troubleshooting issues, we’re committed to helping you navigate this digital transformation with confidence.