Phasing out of BRPs Update: All BRP Holders can now apply for an eVisa
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On 6 August 2024, the Home Office announced that everyone holding a BRP can now apply for an eVisa. This is the next stage in the digitisation process of the UK immigration system and signals the mass phasing out of physical BRPs in favour of electronic records of immigration status: eVisas.
Before making an application for an eVisa, the BRP holder must set up a UKVI account. A UKVI account allows the individual to view their eVisa, the conditions attached to their leave in the UK and to request a share code which they will require to prove their right to work or their right to rent in the UK. Individuals will need to provide their BRP number, date of birth, details of an Identity Document (either their BRP or their passport) and access to a mobile number and email address to receive security codes when signing in.
Once the UKVI account is created, an eVisa application can be submitted. This requires the individual to confirm their identity using the 'UK Immigration: ID Check App' which can be downloaded on a smartphone. They will be required to enter the details of, and take a scan of, the Identity Document used to set up the UKVI account and a picture of their face for the eVisa.
They will then be prompted to complete the online application form which includes confirmation of contact details and setting up account security questions. Once submitted, it may be a few days before the migrant is able to view their eVisa on their UKVI account. They will receive an email notification once it is ready to view.
The Identity Document used to set up the UKVI account is linked to the individual's eVisa. If they plan to travel with an Identity Document which has not been linked to their eVisa (e.g. a renewed passport), it is very important that this new document is added to the UKVI account as an Identity Document before the individual travels to and from the UK. Until it has been confirmed that the new document is added, it is advisable to continue to carry the old document with them, if possible, to avoid unnecessary delays at the border.
If the migrant's BRP expires on 31 December 2024, but their permission to stay in the UK remains valid after this date, they should set up a UKVI account and apply for an eVisa before the expiry of their BRP, and ideally as soon as possible. The Home Office has advised that if an individual waits until after the expiry of their physical BRP before setting up a UKVI account, they are likely to encounter technical difficulties when trying to access their eVisa.
To set up a UKVI account and apply for an eVisa, BRP holders should use the following website: https://www.gov.uk/get-access-evisa . Should you require any assistance with this process please do not hesitate to contact our expert immigration team.