The United Kingdom is set to transition to a fully digital immigration system by June 2025, replacing all physical visa documents with eVisas. This initiative, led by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), will phase out traditional biometric residence permits (BRP), biometric residence cards (BRC), passport endorsements, and vignette stickers in favor of a secure online platform.
An eVisa serves as a digital record of an individual’s immigration status and conditions of stay in the UK. Unlike physical documents, it cannot be lost, stolen, or altered. Visa holders will be able to access their status through a UKVI account, allowing them to prove their immigration status seamlessly at borders, to employers, landlords, and other relevant authorities.
Since 2018, many individuals, particularly those under the EU Settlement Scheme, have already been using eVisas. With this change, the system will now become standard for all visa holders.
Existing physical documents will remain valid until their expiration but will not be reissued after October 31, 2024. Those with visa vignette stickers or indefinite leave endorsements in passports will need to transition to an eVisa. Individuals eligible under the Windrush Scheme will have the opportunity to apply for digital proof of their immigration status.
The decision to adopt eVisas is driven by factors such as security, convenience, and efficiency. By eliminating the risk of loss or theft, reducing processing times, and enabling instant verification, the transition is expected to improve the immigration process. Border checks will also become more efficient, allowing for smoother entry into the UK.
Visa holders will need to create a UKVI account, which will serve as a portal to view visa details, generate share codes for verification, and update passport information to ensure smooth travel.
The transition applies to a wide range of visa holders, including those with biometric residence documents, passport endorsements for indefinite leave to enter or remain, and residents under the EU Settlement Scheme. Those with BRCs expiring on or after December 31, 2024, must carry them while traveling until June 1, 2025, when the full transition to eVisas is complete. New visa applicants will automatically receive eVisas instead of physical documents.
