As with all governmental changes that affect large numbers of individuals right across a society, there will inevitably be problems for those whose situation does not quite ‘fit’ the framework. We will look at a few of the early hurdles that people may find themselves facing.
Will a BRP holder be able to use BRP to create an account after the end of 2024?
Yes – you will be able to create an account post-2024 using your expired BRP if needed, as long as you still have immigration leave. However, those with expired BRPs will not be able to use them to travel internationally.
What do those with paper documents need to do to evidence their rights in the UK – and what do they need to do to get an eVisa?
Those who have indefinite leave to enter or indefinite leave to remain and prove their rights using a passport containing an ink stamp or vignette visa sticker or use another type of legacy paper document should make a ‘No Time Limit’ application.
As part of the application process, customers may need to travel to a biometric centre, now operated by TLS Contact, to provide a photograph, and in some cases provide fingerprints.
Since the end of October 2024, once an application has been processed successfully, No Time Limit applicants will not be issued a biometric residence permit (BRP) rather a UKVI account will be created, so that they may access and share their status as and when required. This now removes the need for NTL applicants to take the additional step to create their account and access their UK eVisas. Anyone continuing to have to use the old process because they do not have a valid ID document (please also see next section) will have an account created manually for them by caseworkers.
What if I don’t have valid ID?
Those granted permission to come to, or stay in the UK before 31 October 2024 and without a valid passport or BRP card, can now create their UKVI account to access their UK eVisas via the government website. They may be required to attend a video interview to verify their identity.
Once the account has been created, information on how to access their eVisa will be sent within 14 days of their application decision letter being served.
Those without a valid ID document, who need to update their personal details (name, nationality, sex marker, or date of birth) or their photo in their UKVI account, can do so if they use the following service: Update your UK Visas and Immigration Account Details. They may be required to attend a UKVCAS centre to enrol their biometrics, once complete the Home Office will update their biometric details or photo in their UKVI account.
What do UK eVisas mean for international travel?
Everyone should continue to carry their in-date physical immigration documents, such as a passport or alternative travel document with them when they travel internationally. Customers who already have an eVisa should tell the Home Office about any travel document on which they intend to travel using the Update your UK Visas and Immigration account details’ service if this is not already linked to their account.
During 2024, the UK government has taken steps to allow carriers, including transport operators such as airlines, ferry, and international train operators, to securely and automatically access the immigration status of passengers travelling on their services when they present their travel document which is linked to their UKVI account.
The automation of existing routine checks completed whenever a passenger presents their travel document when travelling internationally is intended to provide for a more convenient journey, and enhanced border security.
While the UK government is delivering a digital border and immigration system including plans to trial contactless entry using facial recognition only, there are no current plans to replace physical passports with digital equivalents.
What if I have no means of referencing my current status?
Applicants who have lost or no longer have access to their Home Office reference numbers (e.g. BRP number, or visa application number such as UAN or GWF) will be able to request these via the Request Your Reference service, now available to enable them to register for their UKVI account. They will be directed to this service at the relevant point when creating their UKVI account.
What if there is a problem with my eVisa once I receive it?
People who notice any error with their UK eVisas, such as with their name, photograph or an incorrect status, can use a new online service to report it and request the error be corrected. People without ID who have an account created by the Home Office can also use this service to update their email address and mobile number.
Our UK Visa Consultants are regulated by the Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC), ensuring that we provide qualified and experienced advice and representation. Contact us for expert support on UK immigration matters.
