Highlights: UK Extends eVisa transition till March 2025
- Earlier this month, the UK had announced the online transition of physical immigration documents.
- Individuals with BRP, BRC, Physical stickers on their passports, and ILR stamps must switch to eVisas by the end of December 2024.
- Around 3.1 million visa holders have already advanced to the digital system.
- The UK government has now announced extending the online transition period till March 2025.
*Want to migrate to the UK? Sign up with Y-Axis for complete assistance with the process.
UK Grants time Until March 2025 for eVisa Transition
The UK Government has now announced that it will extend the timeframe for visa holders to transition to the digital system. Since the announcement, around 1.3 million visa holders have already switched to eVisas. Physical visa documents like the BRP (Biometric residence permits), BRC (Biometric residence cards), stickers on UK passports, and ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain) stamps must now be changed to eVisas.
The UK Government has assured that it will provide complete guidance and support for those who are switching to the online digital system. The UK Minister for Migration and Citizenship, Seema Malhotra, further added that the government is taking measures to simplify and adapt to the online transition process.
*Want to migrate abroad? Let Y-Axis Guide you with the process.
What is an e-visa?
EVisas serve as physical proof of your immigration status in the UK. The UK Government plans a compelled e-visa transition by 2025. Carriers and airlines will continue to accept BRPs and BRCs that are set to expire by December 31, 2024, as valid for travel purposes until March 2025.
Here are some of the key pointers to know about eVisas:
- With an eVisa, you do not need to carry physical immigration documents.
- You will no longer be required to leave your passport with the immigration authorities while waiting for a decision.
- You no longer need to take or renew physical copies
- The UK immigration rights of the visa holders will remain unchanged during the eVisa transition.
How to switch to a UK eVisa?
The UK has announced guidelines for all physical visa holders to shift to the online system. While paper visa holders are advised to move to the eVisa system, ILR holders must apply for an eVisa, known as the “No Time Limit” e-Visa. The process to transition to the online system has no charges and can be applied free of cost.
You can follow the below steps to apply for an eVisa if your BRP, BRC, or other physical documents have been stolen or lost:
Step 1: Register a complaint with the UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration) about the stolen or lost visa document
Step 2: Create a free UKVI account with details, including your email address, the reference number of our visa application, and the BRP number.
Step 3: Confirm your identity by submitting a live photograph and identification documents.
Step 4: The eVisa will be released to your account upon confirming your identity.
Step 5: Ensure to keep your account updated with the current immigration information to avoid issues with verification while traveling.
*Are you looking for step-by-step assistance with UK immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the leading overseas immigration consultancy in UAE!
For recent immigration updates on UK, check out the Y-Axis Immigration News Page!