Millions of individuals are being encouraged to shift from traditional physical immigration documents to eVisas, marking a pivotal step towards establishing a modernized and digital border
infrastructure.
The Home Office, in collaboration with Tom Pursglove MP, is spearheading the next phase of the government's initiative to modernize the border and implement a digital immigration system. This entails the gradual introduction of eVisas for nearly all visa holders residing in the UK by 2025.
Starting from April 17, 2024, the Home Office will initiate the process by sending out emails to holders of physical immigration documents, known as biometric residence permits (BRPs), inviting them to create a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account to access their eVisa—a digital verification of their immigration status. This invitation process will unfold in phases before being opened to all BRP holders by summer 2024.
The adoption of eVisas serves as a cornerstone in enhancing UK security measures by mitigating the risks associated with fraud, loss, and misuse of physical documents. It bolsters border security while providing a more secure means of validating immigration status, paving the way for increased automation towards realizing the government's vision of a contactless border.
Transitioning to eVisas is a free and straightforward process for individuals holding physical and paper documents. Creating a UKVI account to access the eVisa does not alter or jeopardize individuals' current immigration status or their rights in the UK.
Minister for Legal Migration and the Border, Tom Pursglove MP, emphasized the significance of eVisas in the ongoing digital transformation of the border and immigration system. He highlighted that replacing physical immigration documents with eVisas strengthens border security, curtails immigration system abuse, and yields cost savings for UK taxpayers.
eVisas offer significant advantages for both the UK public and visa applicants. They are inherently secure and immune to loss, theft, or tampering. Moreover, they can be accessed remotely and in real-time, empowering individuals to manage their data efficiently and update the Home Office promptly with any changes in personal information.
eVisas are securely linked to the holder's unique biometric information, akin to BRPs or BRCs, to safeguard against identity fraud. To verify immigration status, stakeholders can conduct quick and simple checks using a secure online service on GOV.UK.
The transition to eVisas aligns with global trends, with many countries opting for digital immigration documents over traditional physical formats. As part of this transition, physical immigration documents will gradually be phased out by 2025, facilitating the shift towards a fully digital border and immigration system.
Customers who already possess eVisas need not take any action but are advised to update their UKVI account with any changes in personal information. They should continue carrying their valid physical immigration documents when traveling internationally until their expiration date.
As part of the broader overhaul of the UK border and immigration system, the government has also introduced the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme. ETA serves as a digital travel permit for visitors to the UK, enhancing pre-travel screening capabilities and bolstering security measures. Photo by Steve Cadman, Wikimedia commons.