UK to Transition from Physical Visa Documents to e-Visas by June 2025

The UK government plans to eliminate physical visa documents, introducing e-Visas for all visa holders by June 2025. This transition aims to enhance security, streamline verification, and simplify immigration processes. Let’s explore what this means for travelers and how to prepare.

A New Era of Digital Travel

The United Kingdom is moving towards a digital travel experience with the rollout of e-Visas. This change, initiated by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), promises a secure and hassle-free experience for millions of travelers. Gone are the worries about lost or stolen documents; your immigration status will soon be accessible online.

What Is an e-Visa?

An e-Visa is a secure online record of an individual’s immigration status in the UK. Unlike physical documents, e-Visas cannot be lost, stolen, or tampered with. Travelers can access their e-Visas through a UKVI account, making it easier to prove their status to authorities, employers, and landlords.

Millions of people, especially those under the EU Settlement Scheme, have already transitioned to e-Visas since 2018. Now, this system will become standard for all UK visa holders.

Changes for Existing Visa Holders

With the full implementation of e-Visas, here’s what will change for those with physical documents:

• BRPs and BRCs: Existing Biometric Residence Permits and Biometric Residence Cards will remain valid until they expire. However, new cards will stop being issued after October 31, 2024. Plan for a digital transition if your card expires after this date.
• Passport Endorsements: Holders of indefinite leave endorsements must transition to e-Visas. Create a UKVI account to update your status and ensure continued legal residence.
• EU Settlement Scheme Cards: If your Biometric Residence Card expires after December 31, 2024, carry it until June 1, 2025. After this date, you must use the e-Visa for travel.
• Windrush Scheme Beneficiaries: Digital evidence options will be available, with UKVI assisting in the transition to ensure access to digital proof of immigration status.

Why the Switch to e-Visas?

The transition to e-Visas is driven by security, efficiency, and convenience. Key benefits include:

• Reduced Risk: No physical documents eliminate the risk of loss, theft, or forgery.
• Faster Processing: Visa approvals will no longer require waiting for physical documents.
• Seamless Verification: Employers and travel authorities can check visa status instantly using a share code.
• Efficient Border Control: Entry procedures will be quicker at UK airports and borders.

How to Access and Use an e-Visa

Visa holders must create a UKVI account, which serves as their primary access point for immigration details. The platform allows users to:

• View visa information, including type and expiration date.
• Generate a 90-day share code for verification of immigration status.
• Update your passport details for smooth travel.

Who Needs to Take Action?

This transition affects various individuals, including:

• BRP and BRC Holders: Must register for a UKVI account and update their information.
• Passport Endorsement Holders: Those with indefinite leave to enter or remain must apply for an e-Visa.
• EU Settlement Scheme Residents: If their BRC expires on or after December 31, 2024, they must continue carrying it until June 1, 2025.
• New Visa Applicants: Future visa holders will automatically receive e-Visas instead of physical documents.

Need Assistance?

For those unfamiliar with digital platforms, UKVI offers support services to help applicants set up their accounts. Additional help is available for vulnerable individuals to ensure a smooth transition.

Final Words

As the UK shifts to a fully digital visa system, travelers and visa holders should prepare in advance. Registering for a UKVI account early will be crucial for adapting to this significant change in immigration policy.