BRP to an eVisa

Visit the link for more information:  https://www.gov.uk/government/news/ Extended to 1st June 2025.

What is an eVisa?

The UK government is transitioning from physical cards including Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) to digital (eVisas). This shift aims to enhance security, streamline processes and improve the overall immigration system.

Key points to remember:

• • • BRP expiry: All BRP expired on December 31st, 2024. However, as per previous notice BRP was allowed to be used till 31 March 2025 Now this has been further extended to 1 June 2025.
    • eVisa invitation: The Home Office may have sent you an email inviting to create a UKVI account to create your eVisa (From August 6, you are allowed to do it without an invitation).
    • No impact on status: Creating a UKVI account and obtaining an eVisa doesn't change your immigration status or rights.
    • Security: eVisas are linked to biometric data, making them highly secure.
    • Convenience: Access your immigration status anytime, anywhere and easily update personal information.

How to Convert Your BRP to an eVisa

1. Create a UKVI Account: First thing you need is a UKVI account to create eVisa. If you have receive an email from the Home Office follow the instructions in the email to set up your UKVI account or open the link below and click on Start now>. 

Create UKVI Account:  https://www.gov.uk/get-access-evisa

You'll typically need:

• • • A valid email address
    • A smartphone for identity verification
    • Your BRP or passport details

2. Verify Your Identity: You'll be required to use the 'UK Immigration: ID Check' app to confirm your identity. This involves taking photos of your passport or BRP and completing a facial scan.

3. Access Your eVisa: Once your identity is verified, you can access your eVisa through your UKVI account.

Tips and Considerations

• • • Respond promptly: When you receive the invitation, act quickly to avoid potential delays.
    • Keep your BRP safe: Until your eVisa is activated and linked to passport, continue to carry your BRP for travel (! IMPORTANT, BRP was in continue use until 31 March 2025 now further extended to 1 June 2025, so make sure you carry your BRP along with your passport if you are travelling in/out of the UK even if you have created eVisa in case there is any issue in your eVisa or linked passport).
    • Update your details: Regularly update your UKVI account with any changes to your passport or contact information.

Additional Information

• • • eVisa benefits: Beyond security and convenience, eVisas enable faster immigration checks for employers and public services.
    • Support: If you encounter difficulties, visit the GOV.UK website for guidance or contact the Home Office for assistance.
    • Timelines: The last date of creating eVisa was 31 December 2024 which was extended to 31 March 2025 now further extended to 1 June 2025. If you still have not created your eVisa go ahead create one. You can use expired BRP to create eVisa and travel in/out of the UK till this date. 

If you need a guidance on eVisa click the links below:

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/online-immigration-status-evisa

https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/immigration/online-immigration-status/getting-an-online-immigration-status-evisa

 

If you have already created the eVisa and like to update the details on your eVisa or link your passport to eVisa or make any changes on your eVisa or view your eVisa visit the link and click on Sign in>:

https://ukimmigration-support-webchat.homeoffice.gov.uk/evisa

 

By following these steps and staying informed, you can smoothly transition from your BRP to an eVisa. If you like to know more about specific aspects of the eVisa process or have any other questions? Contact us.