No More Paper Visas: The UK is making a significant change to its immigration system by transitioning from physical visas to eVisas by 2025. This means that traditional paper visas and Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) will be replaced by a fully digital visa system.
If you currently hold a physical UK visa or residence permit, it is crucial to understand how this change will affect you and what steps you need to take to ensure a smooth transition.
No More Paper Visas
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| What is Changing? | Paper visas and BRPs are being phased out in favor of digital eVisas. |
| When is the Deadline? | By December 31, 2024, BRPs and other physical visas will no longer be valid. |
| Who is Affected? | All UK visa holders, including those with BRPs, work visas, and student visas. |
| What is an eVisa? | A secure digital record of your immigration status, accessible online. |
| How to Transition? | Create a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account and verify your identity. |
| Official Resource | UK Government eVisa Info |
The UK’s move to an eVisa system by 2025 marks a major step toward a modern, digital immigration system. This transition aims to improve security, efficiency, and accessibility for all visa holders.
If you hold a BRP or any UK visa, make sure you set up your UKVI account and transition to an eVisa before December 31, 2024 to avoid any disruptions to your immigration status.
Why is the UK Moving to eVisas?
The UK Home Office has been working toward a fully digital immigration system to improve security, reduce fraud, and streamline border control. The transition to eVisas aligns with broader government efforts to digitize public services, making them more efficient and accessible.
Key Benefits of eVisas:
- Increased Security – Digital records are harder to forge or lose compared to physical documents.
- Convenience – No need to carry a physical visa; your status can be checked online anytime.
- Faster Processing – Eases verification for employers, landlords, and border officials.
- Environmentally Friendly – Reducing reliance on plastic BRPs contributes to sustainability efforts.
- Improved Data Accuracy – Automatic updates to records ensure up-to-date information for authorities and visa holders.
According to the UK Home Office, these changes align with the country’s ‘Digital by Default’ strategy, aiming to modernize public services and enhance national security.
What You Need to Do: Step-by-Step Guide
If you currently hold a BRP or any physical UK visa, here’s what you need to do to switch to an eVisa:
Step 1: Create a UKVI Account
- Visit the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website.
- Provide your personal details and create a secure login.
- This account will be your portal for managing your immigration status.
Step 2: Verify Your Identity
- Use the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app (available on iOS and Android) to verify your identity.
- Scan your passport or current biometric residence permit.
- Take a live selfie to match with your records.
Step 3: Link Your Immigration Status
- Once verified, your immigration status will be linked to your UKVI account.
- You can access it anytime by logging in online.
Step 4: Keep Your Details Updated
- Update your passport details, contact information, and travel history as needed.
- Failure to update details may cause travel delays or legal issues.
Step 5: Show Proof of Your Status When Needed
- Employers, landlords, and border officials will be able to verify your status online.
- You can share your eVisa details via a secure link from your UKVI account.
Step 6: Stay Informed
- Regularly check the UKVI website for updates and any additional requirements.
- Ensure your email and phone number are updated to receive important notifications.
Who is Affected by This Change?
This transition applies to:
- Current visa holders (work, student, and family visas)
- Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) holders
- EU Settlement Scheme holders (pre-settled or settled status)
- Anyone applying for a UK visa from 2025 onwards
If you already hold indefinite leave to remain (ILR), you will also need to transition to an eVisa.
How Will This Impact Employers & Landlords?
Employers and landlords must update their verification processes.
- Right-to-work checks will only be digital.
- Right-to-rent checks will require online status verification.
- The government will provide a new checking service for businesses and landlords.
- Companies hiring international workers should update internal HR policies to reflect these changes.
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Common Questions About the eVisa System
1. What if I lose access to my UKVI account?
You can reset your password through the UKVI website or contact UKVI support for account recovery.
2. Will I still need my passport when traveling?
Yes, your passport will remain essential for travel, but border officers will check your immigration status electronically.
3. What happens if I don’t transition to an eVisa?
If you fail to switch before December 31, 2024, your immigration status could become invalid, affecting your right to live, work, or study in the UK.
4. How do I prove my immigration status to an employer or landlord?
You will be able to generate a secure online verification link from your UKVI account, which you can share with employers or landlords.
5. Will this impact visa processing times?
The Home Office states that processing times should improve with a fully digital system.
6. Can I travel internationally with an eVisa?
Yes, but you must ensure that your passport details in your UKVI account match your current passport, or you may face delays at the border.
7. Will there be additional fees for switching to an eVisa?
No, transitioning to an eVisa is free for existing visa holders. However, if you need to update personal details or renew your visa, standard fees may apply.
