In a move set to revolutionize the immigration process, the United Kingdom is bidding farewell to physical immigration documents. By the end of 2024, traditional staples such as Biometric Residence Cards, Biometric Residence Permits, passport endorsements, and physical ‘vignette’ visa stickers will be phased out, making way for the era of eVisas.
The transition marks a significant step towards a fully digitalized immigration system, streamlining processes and enhancing accessibility for all. From 2025 onwards, individuals will no longer clutch physical proof of their immigration status. Instead, their status will be securely recorded electronically, accessible through a personalized United Kingdom Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account linked to their travel document.
This landmark shift won’t alter visa or permit eligibility criteria. It’s simply a change in how individuals demonstrate their immigration status. Whether you’re a seasoned resident or a newcomer to the UK, embracing this digital frontier is paramount.
If you’re currently holding onto Biometric Residence Cards, Biometric Residence Permits, passport endorsements, or physical vignette visa stickers with an expiry date of December 31, 2024, it’s time to take action. Set up your UKVI account to seamlessly transition to the eVisa format. Beta testing is already underway, with the majority of individuals expected to gain access during the UK summer of 2024.
Attention, employers! Stay in the loop and ensure your team is prepared for these changes. Existing employees with physical immigration documents need to be briefed, and in some cases, Right to Work checks may need to be revisited, especially if the initial check was conducted manually on time-limited permission.
In the fast-paced landscape of global mobility, the UK is charting a course towards efficiency and convenience. Embrace the digital revolution, and let’s get on this exciting journey together.
Stay tuned for further updates as we march towards a digital immigration era in the United Kingdom.
