The UK Home Office has recently announced an extension for the use of expiring Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) and Biometric Residence Cards (BRCs) as evidence of permission to travel. Initially set to expire on 31 December 2024, these documents will now be accepted by carriers until at least 31 March 2025. This extension aligns with the delayed rollout of the eVisa system, providing more time for travelers to transition to the digital immigration status platform. In this post, we discuss the eVisa updates in January 2025.
Extended Use of Expiring BRPs and BRCs
The extension allows travelers to use BRPs and BRCs expiring on or after 31 December 2024 as valid evidence of their immigration status when traveling. Carriers, including airlines, have been instructed to accept these documents until at least 31 March 2025. This temporary measure ensures a smoother transition to eVisas, minimizing disruptions for travelers during the busy start of the year.
Key points for travelers include:
- Retain your expired BRP or BRC while traveling until 31 March 2025, as it may still be used by carriers as evidence of your permission to travel.
- The extension does not alter Border Force’s standard passenger verification procedures.
For more on transitioning to eVisas, read our comprehensive guide on eVisa applications.
Why the eVisa Rollout Has Been Delayed
The eVisa rollout, originally scheduled for 1 January 2025, has been postponed until at least 31 March 2025. On 04 December 2024, this statement was announced by Seema Malhotra, Minister for Migration and Citizenship, to prevent potential issues similar to past immigration challenges, such as the Windrush scandal. Concerns about the risk of individuals being unable to prove their immigration status prompted this delay.
What Is an eVisa?
An eVisa is a digital immigration status linked to an individual’s UKVI account and their passport. It replaces physical documents such as BRPs, BRCs, and passport endorsements like vignette stickers. Once the system fully transitions, the only physical document travelers will need is a valid passport.
Switching to an eVisa has several benefits:
- Eliminates the risk of losing or damaging physical documents.
- Simplifies proof of immigration status through share codes.
- Enhances efficiency and security for both travelers and the Home Office.
More details on eVisas can be found in our eVisa FAQs.
Steps to Create an eVisa Account
Although the rollout is delayed, it’s crucial to create an eVisa account as soon as possible. The process is straightforward:
- Log In to UKVI: Access the official UKVI portal or download the UKVI mobile app. Ensure your passport is linked to your account.
- Provide Your Details: Include a valid passport, digital photo, and current contact information.
- Generate a Share Code: Before traveling, create a share code at view and prove your immigration status. This code, valid for 90 days, provides proof of your status for carriers or authorities if required.
For a detailed guide, see our article on applying for an eVisa with a BRP.
Guidance for Legacy Document Holders
Legacy document holders, such as those with ink stamps or vignette stickers in their passports, are encouraged to transition to eVisas by making a No Time Limit (NTL) application. Recent improvements to the NTL application process make it easier for these individuals to create a UKVI account and access their eVisa.
Key Updates for Legacy Document Holders include:
- Streamlined Applications: The new NTL process, updated in October 2024, reduces evidential requirements and automatically creates a UKVI account during the application.
- Manual Assistance: Individuals without valid ID documents can have their accounts manually created by UKVI caseworkers.
While legacy documents remain valid for certain purposes, transitioning to an eVisa provides significant benefits, including ease of access and better integration with digital systems. Detailed guidance on transitioning can be found on the official UKVI website.
Next Steps for Travelers
To ensure a smooth transition, travelers should take the following actions before 31 March 2025:
- Register for an eVisa through the UKVI portal or app.
- Retain your expired BRP or BRC while traveling.
- Generate and securely store a share code to prove your immigration status if needed.
By proactively creating your eVisa account and transitioning from physical documents, you can avoid delays and complications during the final rollout phase.
How Whytecroft Ford Can Help
Transitioning to the eVisa system can be challenging for travelers and legacy document holders. At Whytecroft Ford, our experienced immigration team offers tailored advice and support.
Contact Whytecroft Ford today at +44 208 757 5751 or via our online contact form to discuss your immigration needs.
