What is a UK eVisa? Why the UK is getting rid of physical BRP cards?
The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) department is developing a digital immigration system that will replace physical documents with an online record of your immigration status, known as an eVisa.
The physical documents being replaced include:
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
Since 2018, millions of customers have already received an eVisa through initiatives like the EU Settlement Scheme.
An eVisa is an online record of your immigration status and the conditions of your permission to enter or stay in the UK. You will need to create a UKVI account to access your eVisa. Transitioning to an eVisa does not affect your immigration status or permission.
In the future, you'll be able to use an eVisa to travel to the UK without needing to carry a physical document, except for your current passport registered to your UKVI account. Until the end of 2024, you'll still need to carry your physical document when traveling, if you have one.
The benefits of eVisas include enhanced security, faster processing, and easier proof of immigration status for third parties like employers and landlords.
To access your eVisa, you need to create a free UKVI account. This will allow you to view your immigration details, update personal information, and share your status with authorized parties using the view and prove service.
The transition to eVisas is being rolled out gradually. If you currently have a BRP, you'll be contacted in 2024 with instructions on creating your UKVI account and accessing your eVisa. If you have a different physical document, you may need to take additional steps, such as applying for a BRP or NTL.
If you require assistance with this process, do not hesitate to contact our team for support. They can be reached on info@uvslaw.co.uk
