UK Extends Transition to eVisa System Until March 2025

Name: UK Extends Transition to eVisa System Until March 2025 | IaM (Immigration
Uploaded: 2024-12-04T16:00:00+00:00
Description: The UK government has announced a grace period until March 2025 to help visa holders transition from physical

The UK government has announced a grace period until March 2025 to help visa holders transition from physical immigration documents to the fully digital eVisa system.

According to The Guardian, UK nationals residing overseas have difficulty accessing the system required to download the new eVisas, and as a result, they may have been barred from entry into the country.

Most physical documents required to enter the UK will no longer be valid on December 31. The UK government has decided to “allow biometric residence permits or EU settlement scheme biometric residence cards that expire on or after 31 December to be accepted as valid evidence of permission to travel until 31 March 2025”.

During this period, expired physical documents will be accepted for international travel to ease the shift. Airlines will receive additional assistance in navigating both the new and the old systems, which will be kept in place for the time being.

Migration and Citizenship Minister Seema Malhotra stated that the extension aims to address technical issues and feedback from visa holders, ensuring a smoother transition while maintaining border security.

Concerns and Assurances

The phased transition began in April 2023, with BRP holders receiving instructions to set up UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) accounts. While some experts have warned about potential glitches and discrimination, the government has assured that the grace period addresses these issues.

The digital system won’t impact visa or permit eligibility, application criteria, or requirements. Instead, it will solely change how individuals demonstrate their immigration status.

The Home Office encourages eligible individuals to switch to eVisas via the GOV.UK system promptly to benefit from its convenience and security.

Explore our article, “Switch to UK eVisa Before Year-End: Everything You Need to Know,” for a step-by-step guide to setting up your UKVI eVisa.

Have you switched your BRP with eVisa? Talk to us in the comment section below. Or if you need more advice on the above, contact us for further travel & immigration advice.

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