Last Updated on September 9, 2024
Insights from Envoy Global’s UK Director of Immigration
Welcome to the UK Immigration Briefing with Envoy Global’s UK immigration team, where we dive into the latest on UK immigration policies and updates! Envoy Global’s UK Director of Immigration offers his insights on the latest updates to the UK digital immigration system.
EVisas: The Digital Transformation of the UK Immigration System
UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) is developing a Digital Immigration System to house all UK visas digitally. The digitized system will mean that all physical visa documents will be replaced or phased out with eVisas. The documents to be replaced include:
- Biometric residence permits (BRP)
- Biometric residence cards (BRC)
- Passport endorsements, such as indefinite leave to enter wet ink stamps
- Vignette stickers in passports, such as entry clearance or visa vignettes
You may find information about the online immigration status (eVisa) here.
UKVI Rollout and Timeline
Since April 2024, UKVI has been selecting BRP and other visa holders and inviting them to sign up for a UKVI account and register for their eVisa. As of 6 August 2024, the Home Office has committed to allowing all remanding holders to sign up for a UKVI account and register for their eVisa.
The invitation for BRP holders to sign up for a UKVI account and register for their eVisa commenced in mid-April 2024. By the end of summer 2024, the invitation or option to sign up for a UKVI account and register for their eVisa will be opened to all BRP holders.
All BRPs will expire by 31 December 2024, and visa holders must prove their immigration status with an eVisa by 1 January 2025.
The visa expiration date will remain the same as the original visa and will not change due to this digital transformation.
How to Create a UKVI Account: Insights from Envoy Global
Applicants should sign up for a UKVI account if they have a BRP card that expires on 31 December 2024. You can use your travel document, such as a passport or visa application reference number, to create your UKVI account if you have lost your BRP card.
You should only request a replacement BRP if it has been lost or stolen and you have no other identity document to create a UKVI account. If you have permission to stay in the UK, and once you’ve created your UKVI account, you can sign in to the view and prove service to access your eVisa.
UKVI Account Setup: Step by Step
Please take the following steps now:
- Create a UKVI account to access your eVisa, replacing your BRP.
- To create your UKVI account, you will need:
- Your date of birth
- Your BRP Number
- Your passport (if you do not have a BRP)
- Access to an email address and phone number
- Access to a smartphone
If you have lost your BRP or no longer have a BRP, you may still register for a UKVI account.
You can register using another identity document, such as your passport and Unique Application Reference number (16 digits starting with 1212 or 3434).
Please note that your Unique Application Reference (‘UAN’) is on your most recently submitted visa application form.
Who Can Apply for an eVisa?
Please note that the above list will be updated periodically, and you should visit the UK government’s website for the most updated list.
Insider Experience: Navigating UKVI and Biometric Residence Permits
The shift from physical BRPs to eVisas is a significant change aimed at increasing efficiency and security. Digital records reduce the risk of loss or theft and allow for real-time updates, making the process faster and more reliable for employers and employees.
Despite these advantages, the transition to digital has its challenges. There is a learning curve for employers and employees who must familiarize themselves with creating and managing UKVI accounts and eVisas. Technical issues and the need for clear communication from UKVI add to the complexity. It’s crucial for organizations to provide training and resources to their teams and to stay updated with the latest UKVI announcements.
Looking ahead, embracing the digital transformation of the UK immigration system is essential. While the change can be complex, it offers greater efficiency and security opportunities. By staying informed and proactive, employers and employees can navigate this transition successfully and benefit from its advancements.
FAQ With the UK Immigration Team
Q: I already have a UKVI account and hold an eVisa? What should I do?
A: You will already have a UKVI account if you:
- Applied to the EU Settlement Scheme
- When applying for your current visa, use the “UK: Immigration: ID Check” app to prove your identity.
- Created one when applying for a visa. (You’ll have received a UKVI account confirmation email).
- Created one to get access to an eVisa. (You’ll have received an email with access to the online record of your immigration status).
If any of these circumstances apply, no action is required, but you should always check to ensure you have a UKVI/eVisa account.
If you receive a “The details entered do not match our records” despite your details being correct, you may not have a UKVI account or an eVisa and may need to sign up for an account.
Q: I have Indefinite Leave to Remain and BRP Cards; what measures must I take?
A: Before registering for a UKVI account and an eVisa, you must submit a ‘no time limit’ (NTL) application to replace your document with a BRP. Once you have a BRP, you can create a UKVI account to access your eVisa.
Q: Do I still need to carry my BRP card when traveling outside the UK?
A: Yes, even if you have signed up for a UKVI account and hold an eVisa, you should still carry your BRP card whilst traveling until 31 December 2024. If you are waiting for a BRP card to be sent to you after a recent application, you should wait to receive your BRP card before traveling (even if you believe you have an eVisa).
Q: Do I return my BRP card to the Home Office after 31 December 2024?
A: No, keep your expired BRP card. You may need it for future applications to stay in the UK or for your records.
Q: I tried the link but cannot yet set up a UKVI account. What should I do?
A: You may get help with your visa by contacting the Home Office.
Don’t Miss an Update from Envoy Global’s UK Team
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Content in this publication is for informational purposes only and not intended as legal advice, nor should it be relied on as such. Envoy is not a law firm, and does not provide legal advice. If you would like guidance on how this information may impact your particular situation and you are a client of the U.S. Law Firm, consult your attorney. If you are not a client of the U.S. Law Firm working with Envoy, consult another qualified professional. This website does not create an attorney-client relationship with the U.S. Law Firm.
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