Important Changes to UK Visa System – Transition to eVisa: What You Need to Know

As the UK moves towards a fully digital immigration system, physical documents like Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) will be replaced by an online record called eVisa. This shift affects both adults and children with UK visas and will become mandatory by 1 January 2025.

What’s Happening

 The eVisa is a digital version of immigration status that can be accessed online and linked to an individual’s passport. By the end of 2024, physical immigration documents (like BRPs) will no longer be issued, and from 1 January 2025, only eVisas will be accepted as proof of immigration status.

People will need to create a UKVI account to access their eVisa, view it, and share it with employers, landlords, and other relevant authorities.

Key Dates & Travel Concerns

• End of 2024: BRPs and other physical documents will remain valid until 31 December 2024.
• 1 January 2025: All foreign nationals in the UK must switch to eVisas as proof of immigration status.

Since this deadline overlaps with the Christmas period—a busy time for travel—employees should act early to ensure their status is up to date. This is especially important for those travelling in December to avoid any issues at the border or with airlines that check immigration status digitally.

What If Employees Don’t Register for an eVisa?

Employees who don’t switch to an eVisa by 1 January 2025 may face complications:

• Travel Delays: Failure to set up an eVisa could lead to border delays or airline issues.
• Employment Impact: Employers and landlords will need to verify immigration status digitally. Without an eVisa, proving the right to work or rent in the UK will be difficult. It's important to note that the requirement to undertake repeat checks has not changed - you do not need to verify that an employee has moved to an eVisa.

What Employers Should Do:

1. Send Communications: Alert employees to the upcoming changes, including the need to create a UKVI account and access their eVisa.
2. Guide Employees: Share official links to the UKVI account registration and the View and Prove service.
3. Update Details Before Travel: Employees should ensure their passport information is updated in the UKVI system before they travel, especially if they've renewed their passport.

Support for Children

Parents or guardians must create a UKVI account for children under 18, as they will also require an eVisa. This will allow them to travel and prove their immigration status digitally.

Immtell is Here to Help:

As employers, you are important in supporting your employees through this transition. If you need assistance preparing communications or guiding employees through the eVisa process, please contact us.

We're here to help ensure your team is ready for the changes ahead.