Tuesday 22 October 2024

Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) will no longer be issued after 31 October 2024. Instead, individuals will have online access to their immigration status via eVisas. If you are a BRP holder, you must apply for an eVisa by 31 December 2024.

This transition is part of the Home Office’s digitalisation of the UK immigration system intended to simplify border processes and right to work/rent checks, prevent document tampering and give individuals more control of their data. There are concerns however regarding its implementation, accessibility, and potential problems on the horizon for those holding valid UK immigration permission who are unable to apply by the deadline.

The Home Office’s late planning and poor promotion of the transition to eVisas mean thousands of individuals are likely unaware of the need to apply for one by the deadline. They will soon be at risk of being unable to prove their right to work, rent or study and may face issues at the border when seeking to re-enter the UK.

The eVisa system has already been seen to be susceptible to technical problems, with incorrect information being detailed online for some individuals. While examples of this may be in the minority, this is troubling as being unable to prove your correct immigration status can have significant consequences.

Applying for and accessing an eVisa also requires a level of digital literacy which is another challenge for many individuals. The UK government has pledged up to £4 million of support to ensure that free advice will be available to those who are vulnerable and need to apply and a targeted advertising campaign has been announced. These measures have however come a little too late to ensure that everyone who needs to apply for an eVisa is aware of this and ready to apply by the deadline.

Get in touch

If you are a BRP holder, or an employer with employees who have BRPs, speak to your assigned LDI lawyer to discuss the eVisa process or email enquiries@lauradevine.com. You can also sign up to our mailing list for the latest news and updates.