Over 4 million UK visa holders have successfully switched to eVisas, according to newly released Home Office data. However, around 600,000 people are yet to transition from physical documents to the eVisa digital system.
As part of the government’s Plan for Change, eVisas aim to make the UK’s immigration system more secure, efficient, and user-friendly. To support a smooth transition, the Home Office has extended the grace period for expired immigration documents. Initially set to end on 31 March 2025, this period will now run until 1 June 2025.
What This Means for Visa Holders
If you hold a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) or an EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) Biometric Residence Card (BRC) that expired on or after 31 December 2024, you can continue using it for international travel until 1 June 2025, provided your immigration status remains valid.
From 2 June 2025 onwards, expired BRPs and BRCs will no longer be accepted as proof of immigration status when travelling to the UK. This means it is essential for those who have not yet switched to an eVisa to take action soon.
Minister for Migration and Citizenship, Seema Malhotra MP, stated: “Today’s encouraging eVisa statistics show that the vast majority of immigration status holders have already taken action. We continue to listen to feedback and have extended the grace period to ensure the transition remains as smooth as possible.”
Why Switch to an eVisa?
An eVisa offers a streamlined and secure way to prove your immigration status. It is free to access and easy to set up. If you still rely on a physical or paper document, creating a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account will allow you to access your eVisa quickly and securely.
Even those with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) who currently use an ink stamp or vignette in their passport can continue to do so. However, switching to an eVisa is recommended to benefit from a more convenient digital status.
How Many People Still Need to Act?
While previous estimates suggested that over 4 million BRP holders needed to switch, updated analysis now puts the figure at around 600,000.
Final Reminder
If you have not created an account to access your eVisa yet, now is the time. With over 4 million people already making the switch, don’t delay and secure your digital immigration status today.
