The way millions of individuals prove their right to be in the United Kingdom is undergoing a significant transformation. The iconic visa vignette, a sticker long placed in passports, is gradually being replaced by a more secure and convenient digital equivalent: the eVisa. This shift marks a major step in the Home Office's plan to create a fully digital immigration system.
Recent updates from the Home Office highlight the substantial progress of this transition, with 4.3 million people having already created their UKVI account to access their eVisa. However, with an estimated 300,000 individuals yet to make the switch, understanding the new requirements is crucial for all visa holders.
The End of an Era for Physical Permits
For years, Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) and Biometric Residence Cards (BRCs) have been the standard physical proof of immigration status.
As of 2 June 2025, the travel concession for expired BRPs and BRCs have ended, meaning these documents can no longer be used for travel. All visa holders are now expected to have a UKVI account to access their digital status.
A Phased Farewell to the 90-Day Vignette
In a significant upcoming change, from 15 July 2025, main applicants for several popular visa routes will no longer receive a 90-day vignette in their passports. Instead, they will be issued an eVisa directly. This change will affect:
- Students (including short-term study visas up to 11 months)
- Global Business Mobility
- Global Talent
- International Sportspersons
- Skilled Workers (including Health and Care)
- Temporary Workers
- Youth Mobility Scheme
It is important to note that dependants and children of these main applicants will, for the time being, continue to receive both a vignette and an eVisa.
What This Means for You: A Step-by-Step Guide
The move to eVisas requires action from visa holders. Here’s what you need to do:
- Create a UKVI Account: If you haven't already, the first and most crucial step is to create a UKVI account. This is your gateway to your eVisa. You can start the process here.
2. Verify and Link: Once your eVisa is granted, follow the instructions in your decision letter to access your UKVI account. It is vital to check that all your personal details are correct and to link your travel document, such as your passport, to your eVisa before you travel.
3. Share Your Status: To prove your rights to employers or education providers, you will need to generate a 'share code' through your UKVI account. This code, along with your date of birth, will allow them to verify your immigration status online.
For employers and sponsors, the requirement to check a student or worker's date of arrival in the UK remains in place, even for those without vignettes.
Simplified Process for a Secure Future
The Home Office has also streamlined the process for individuals with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) who still rely on older ink stamps or vignettes. They are encouraged to make a free 'No Time Limit' (NTL) application. This will enable them to create a UKVI account and receive an eVisa, offering a more secure and convenient way to prove their rights. The application process has been simplified, requiring only the document showing ILR and the passport used for the most recent UK entry.
Furthermore, individuals granted permission to stay in the UK before 1 November 2024 who do not have a valid ID can now create their own UKVI account, a process that previously required Home Office assistance.
Support is Available
The Home Office acknowledges that this is a significant change and has provided resources for those who need assistance. Comprehensive guidance and support can be found here.
While expired BRPs and BRCs can be kept for personal records, they are no longer valid for travel.
If you would like to discuss the above in further detail, or require any immigration advice, please get in touch with the expert immigration team at Migrate UK info@migrate-uk.com who will be happy to assist.