With just days remaining before the 1 June deadline, up to 700,000 migrants in the UK have yet to register for the eVisa, leaving them unable to prove their right to work, rent, or travel. The Home Office’s shift from physical documents to the eVisa digital system has been marred by technical failures, delays, and legal challenges, raising fears of a crisis.
A Troubled Transition
The eVisa system, intended to streamline immigration checks, has faced widespread criticism. Despite two deadline extensions, first to 31 March 2025, then to 1 June, hundreds of thousands remain unregistered. Home Office data reveals that while 3.2 million have secured eVisas, an estimated 600,000–700,000 still lack access, including students whose visas recently expired.
Technical glitches have compounded the chaos. In March, a system update displayed incorrect personal details, while a May outage blocked applicants from submitting visa information. Travellers have reported being stranded abroad after airlines refused to accept digital proof and landlords and employers have rejected share codes due to system errors.
Human Impact
Advocacy groups warn of severe consequences. Sara Alsherif of Open Rights Group noted: “People with legal status are being denied jobs, housing, and even boarding flights.”
Calls for Action
Critics argue the Home Office’s reliance on a flawed digital system disproportionately affects vulnerable groups, including refugees and the digitally excluded. While expired biometric permits remain valid for travel until 1 June, concerns persist about post-deadline disruptions.
As the clock ticks down, migrant organisations urge swift fixes and contingency measures to avert a systemic breakdown. The stakes are high without urgent intervention, thousands risk losing their rights overnight.
Conclusion
With the 1 June deadline fast approaching, the UK faces a critical test of its digital immigration system. The Home Office’s troubled transition to eVisas has left hundreds of thousands in limbo. While the government insists the new system will improve efficiency, the human cost of its failures is already evident.
The repeated delays and technical breakdowns demand more than last-minute fixes. If the Home Office fails to provide reliable alternatives, it risks repeating the injustices of past immigration scandals. The coming days will prove whether lessons have truly been learned, or whether vulnerable individuals will once again pay the price for systemic shortcomings.
Need Help With Your eVisa?
If you are affected by these changes and need assistance securing your status, our immigration specialists can help. Contact us today for expert guidance.
The clock is ticking, don’t leave your rights to chance.
With over 20 years of experience and a commitment to excellence, Morgan Smith Immigration is your trusted partner for all your immigration needs. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you with UK Visa Applications. For any enquiries or assistance, call us at 0203 959 3335 or email [email protected].
