These past few weeks, our immigration experts have been receiving numerous enquiries regarding the new eVisa system being introduced by the UK Home Office to replace Biometric Residence Permits (BRP).
Let’s take a moment to pause!
Batley Law is here to guide you through every legal step required to transition from BRPs to eVisas. If any issues arise, rest assured that our immigration experts have contingency plans in place to assist you.
In the meantime, we’re here to answer your concerns!
Can I travel with an eVisa?
If you’ve recently received a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP), you might have noticed that it expires on December 31, 2024. This expiration date has understandably raised concerns, especially for those whose permission to stay in the UK extends beyond this date.
As BRPs will no longer be valid after December 31, 2024, it’s important to apply for an eVisa to replace your BRP before the deadline. We’re here to guide you through this transition smoothly and address any questions you may have.
How the eVisa system works
The eVisa links your passport or travel document to an online system that records your immigration status, including expiration dates and any conditions attached to your stay, such as work rights or access to public funds. Keeping your passport or ID card details up-to-date in your UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account is crucial, as it ensures your immigration status can be easily verified.
You can share your eVisa status with third parties, like employers or landlords, by generating a share code through the ‘View and Prove’ service. This code provides temporary access to your immigration information and can be regenerated as needed.
Steps to transition to an eVisa
1. Create a UKVI Account
The first step in procuring an eVisa is to set up a UKVI account. Fortunately, this service is free of charge. Be wary of scams that might ask for payment or personal details. To get started, you’ll need:
- Access to a smartphone
- A mobile phone number
- An email address
- Your BRP card or a valid passport with your BRP number (if you already have a visa)
- Your visa application number (Global Web Form (GWF) or Unique Application Number (UAN))
Make sure to update your UKVI account if you:
- Renew or replace your identity document (e.g., if your passport expires)
- Change your name (e.g., due to marriage)
- Update your address, phone number, or email address
- Add or change an identity document
You can create your account by entering the required personal details here. After completing the steps, you’ll receive a confirmation email—please store this safely as it contains important instructions for accessing your account.
2. Confirm your identity using the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ App
Once you’ve created your UKVI account, sign in using the link provided in the confirmation email. If you used your BRP card to set up your account, you’ll need to re-enter the details and use your phone or email to receive one-time access codes.
Next, download the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app from the App Store or Google Play. Ensure you download the correct app by verifying its name.
Link the app to your UKVI account by scanning the QR code on-screen or requesting a connection code. Follow the on-screen instructions to:
- Take a photo of your BRP (front and back)
- Scan the biometric chip inside the card
- Complete a biometric scan of your face
- Take a photo that will appear on your eVisa
Make sure the photo is clear, taken against a plain background, and free from shadows. This image will appear on your eVisa, so ensure it’s one you’re satisfied with.
3. Link your eVisa to your UKVI Account
After confirming your identity, you’ll need to complete the ‘Contact Preferences’ section and set up security questions for account verification. These questions will help confirm your identity if you ever need to contact the UKVI call center.
Once you’ve completed these sections, carefully read and sign the digital declaration, then press Submit. You’ll see a confirmation screen and receive an email indicating that your eVisa registration has been successfully submitted.
It may take a few days for your eVisa to appear in your UKVI account. Don’t worry if it doesn’t show up immediately—be sure to check your inbox and spam folders regularly.
When your eVisa is ready, you’ll receive another email with instructions on how to view and verify your immigration status. Keep this email safe. Once you have access, review your eVisa details carefully to ensure everything is correct.
If you have dependents in the UK, they will each need their own UKVI account and eVisa. Be sure to follow the same steps for each family member.
Traveling with your eVisa
Your eVisa is linked to the travel ID document you used when creating your UKVI account, typically your BRP or passport. You must carry your BRP when traveling to and from the UK as long as it remains valid.
Upon entering the UK, immigration officers will scan your ID document. Ensure your eVisa is correctly linked to this document to avoid any issues.
Before your BRP expires on December 31, 2024, update your UKVI account with your current passport details and link your eVisa to it. This passport will then become your primary travel document.
Failure to keep your UKVI account updated could result in delays at the UK border and challenges in proving your immigration status.
We hope that we’ve answered at least some of your questions. However, when it comes to the actual process, having an expert on your side is crucial. With nearly two decades of experience and a strong rapport with our clients, Batley Law is here to help you every step of the way. Don’t just take our word for it—check out our reviews for reference.
Reach out to us today, and let’s make the process seamless together. Connect with us now!
FAQs
How much does it cost to replace a lost BRP?
According to gov.uk, replacing a BRP costs £154. You can apply for a replacement once you’re back in the UK, but you need to do this within 3 months of reporting it lost or stolen—unless you have a valid reason, like being unable to return to the UK in that time.
How long does BRP replacement take?
It can take up to 8 weeks for your replacement BRP card application to be processed through the standard service. During that time, it’s crucial to ensure your visa doesn’t expire—this remains your responsibility.
Do I need to apply for an eVisa if my BRP expires before December 2024?
If your BRP expires on 31 December 2024 but your visa or immigration status allows you to stay longer, there’s no need to inform UKVI. Instead, make sure you can access your eVisa to prove your immigration status online after your BRP expires.
What should I do if my passport details change?
It is essential to keep your UK Visa and immigration account details updated. If you change your name or nationality while outside the UK, you’ll need to apply for a BRP replacement single-entry visa to return. Once approved, you’ll receive a vignette (sticker) in your passport, allowing you to enter the UK.
