PHYSICAL TO DIGITAL

UK Streamlines Immigration with eVisa Rollout

The United Kingdom is modernizing its immigration system by transitioning away from physical visa documents and towards a fully digital eVisa system. Starting in 2024, individuals holding Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) will begin receiving invitations to convert their visas to an eVisa.

What is an eVisa?

An eVisa is a digital proof of an individual’s immigration status in the UK. Unlike a physical BRP, the eVisa exists entirely online. It can be accessed through the holder’s UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account.

Why the move to eVisas?

Convenience: eVisas offer 24/7 online access to your immigration status.

Security: eVisas are embedded with more robust security features than physical documents, reducing the potential for fraud or misuse.

Efficiency: The transition to eVisas creates a more efficient immigration system, reducing processing times and administrative burdens.

Environmental Sustainability:$Eliminating physical documents aligns with the UK’s commitment to reducing its environmental impact.

Who is eligible?

Currently, invitations are being sent to individuals holding BRPs. The UKVI plans to open the conversion process to all BRP holders by summer 2024. The ultimate goal is for all UK visa holders to use eVisas by 2025.

How does the conversion process work?

1. Invitation: BRP holders will receive an email from the Home Office inviting them to create a UKVI account. 2. Account Setup: Individuals follow the instructions in the email to set up their UKVI account.

3. Digital Transfer: The visa holder’s immigration status information will be securely transferred from their BRP to their UKVI account, creating their eVisa.

What happens to my BRP?

The UK government encourages visa holders to destroy their BRP once they have successfully converted to an eVisa.