Delays in full rollout of eVisas
The UK government has announced a further delay in the full rollout of eVisas, extending the transition period until 1 June 2025. Initially set to end on 31 March 2025, this additional two-month grace period aims to prevent disruptions for individuals still holding Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) or EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) Biometric Residence Cards (BRCs). The extension acknowledges the difficulties some visa holders have faced in making the transition to digital-only immigration status, ensuring they are not unfairly disadvantaged.
What this means for visa holders
Individuals with expired BRPs or EUSS BRCs can continue using these documents for international travel until 1 June 2025. However, from 2 June 2025, expired BRPs and BRCs will no longer be valid for travel. Visa holders must take urgent action to ensure they can access and prove their immigration status before this deadline.
The Home Office has confirmed that over 4 million people have successfully transitioned to eVisas, but approximately 600,000 individuals still need to take action. Many may not realise they must actively create a UKVI account to access their eVisa, as the transition is not automatic. The government is continuing its outreach efforts to raise awareness and assist those who have yet to make the switch.
Why has the deadline been extended?
The extension follows concerns that a strict deadline could cause unnecessary disruptions for travellers and individuals proving their immigration status. Ensuring the ability to prove the right to remain, work, or rent housing in the UK is critical for many affected individuals.
There have also been reports of technical issues, such as duplicate UKVI accounts and challenges in linking immigration status to passports. By extending the deadline, the government aims to avoid complications similar to those experienced during the Windrush scandal, where individuals faced difficulties due to gaps in their immigration documentation.
Key actions for HR professionals and employers
For HR professionals managing employees' right to work, this extension provides extra time to ensure staff members have transitioned to eVisas. Employers should:
- Encourage affected employees to set up a UKVI account as soon as possible.
- Verify that employees' current passports are correctly linked to their eVisa.
- Inform employees that from 2 June 2025, expired BRPs and BRCs will no longer be valid for proving immigration status.
- Use the View and Prove service to generate share codes for employees who need to confirm their status.
Implications for travel planning
For those planning international travel, it is crucial to ensure their immigration status is updated before the new deadline. Travellers should:
- Create and log into their UKVI account to access their eVisa.
- Confirm that their passport details are correctly linked to avoid issues at border control.
- Generate a share code before travelling to provide proof of their status if required.
Final reminder: No further extensions
While this delay provides a temporary solution, the Home Office has made it clear that there will be no further extensions beyond 1 June 2025. Visa holders must act now to avoid complications. Ensuring a smooth transition to the UK’s digital immigration system remains a priority, and those affected should take the necessary steps to complete the process as soon as possible.
Contact Migrate UK
If you have any questions on the above or would like any immigration advice, please contact the expert immigration team at Migrate UK: info@migrate-uk.com or 01235 645800.