eVisas: Further changes ahead of biometric residence permits expiry deadline

With the switch to a fully digital immigration system looming, it has been reported that the Home Office will be postponing the full shift to eVisas, which had been planned for the end of December. This news is unsurprising, given the number of technical issues people are experiencing with the new system. This includes people having difficulties creating an account or accessing their eVisas. Those affected are understandably concerned about proving their right to live, work and rent in the UK post 31st December 2024 or being denied entry to the UK on their return after the Christmas break.

In a bid to avoid chaos over the festive period, the government’s Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Migration and Citizenship, Seema Malhotra, has signalled that changes will be brought in to allow airlines to continue to accept biometric residence permits (BRPs) or EU settlement scheme (EUSS) biometric residence cards beyond their 31st December 2024 expiry date. As per the Under-Secretary’s announcement, expired BRPs will be accepted as valid evidence of permission to travel until 31st March 2025. Plans are also afoot to set up a 24-hour Home Office helpline for airlines attempting to identify documents over the new year. The Home Office is urging anyone experiencing issues with creating their online UKVI account or with accessing their eVisa to do the following:

• Use the Home Office’s eVisa webchat
• Report on error with your eVisa
• Call the UKVI resolution centre on 0300 790 6268 or +44 (0)203 875 4669
• Lodge a complaint
• If you are being incorrectly denied boarding onto a flight to the UK, ask the airline to call the Home Office’s Carrier Support Hub.

In the meantime, those with BRPs expiring on 31st December 2024, who have permission that extends beyond that date, and who have not yet transitioned to the eVisa system, should go online and create a UKVI account to access their eVisa as soon as possible.

Should you require immigration advice in relation to these changes or any immigration, asylum or nationality matter please be in touch with Elizabeth or Ashley at:

[email protected] or [email protected].