Early 2025 UK Immigration Updates: Key Changes and Implications

As we enter 2025, several updates to the UK’s immigration policies are set to impact businesses, employees, and visitors alike. These changes aim to enhance security and streamline procedures, but they may also require proactive planning to avoid potential challenges. Below, we outline the key updates and their implications.

Acceptance of BRPs and BRCs until March 2025

Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) and Biometric Residence Cards (BRCs) that expired on 31 December 2024 will remain valid for travel until 31 March 2025. This extension provides some flexibility for individuals and employers.

It is still essential for visa holders to create an eVisa account on the UK government’s website if they have not done so already to prevent potential disruptions or delays at immigration control. The eVisa is digitally linked to the passport, enabling immigration systems to automatically retrieve visa or immigration details when the passport is scanned, ensuring a smoother transition at immigration control.

Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) Expansion

The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme is a digital travel permit required for certain visitors to the UK. Similar to systems like the US ESTA, it enhances border security by eliminating the need for physical stamps or visas.

• From 27 November 2024:  Visitors from countries across the Americas, Asia, and Oceania (e.g., USA, Canada, Australia, Japan) can apply for an ETA. It became mandatory for these visitors on 8 January 2025.
• From 5 March 2025: Visitors from EU/EEA countries and Switzerland can apply for an ETA, required for travel from 2 April 2025.

The application process is straightforward, costing £10 per person, and the ETA is valid for multiple visits over two years or until the linked passport expires. The fastest way to apply is using the UK ETA app. Decisions are usually made within 3 working days, but you may get a quicker decision.

You do not need an ETA if you have a visa, permission to live, work and study in the UK or you are a British or Irish Citizen.

Contact Migrate UK

If you are unsure about any of the above, or would like any immigration legal advice, please do not hesitate to reach out to our team on info@migrate-uk.com.