The UK Home Office’s transition to digital eVisas has sparked significant challenges just weeks after its rollout. Travellers are already encountering difficulties boarding UK-bound flights, while refugees are struggling without adequate proof of their immigration status. Reports of technical glitches, limited accessibility and operational confusion are mounting, raising serious concerns about the system’s readiness.
Passengers travelling to the UK have reported issues proving their immigration status at foreign airports. Despite assurances from the Home Office that airlines would have access to automated status-checking systems, many travellers have been left struggling to board flights.
Chisomo Kalinga, an academic from the University of Edinburgh, recounted her experience of nearly missing a flight from Malawi due to staff being unable to verify her eVisa status.
“I had to borrow someone’s phone, log into gov.uk, and show my eVisa,” she said, describing the process as “extremely stressful” due to slow internet and time constraints. The Independent
The rollout has also left many refugees in limbo. With Biometric Residence Permits no longer issued, refugees are expected to rely on eVisas to access vital services like banking, housing and benefits. However, delays in setting up eVisa accounts have left some vulnerable individuals without proof of status.
Beyond accessibility issues, technical errors are adding to the chaos. Digital rights groups like the Open Rights Group have highlighted cases of merged eVisa accounts, leading to data breaches. One individual found her details merged with another person’s, compromising her ability to prove her immigration status and raising serious concerns.
In another case, a family has been waiting since September for their child’s eVisa, leaving the child unable to enrol in school or access essential services.
The Home Office has defended the transition to eVisas, emphasising their security and efficiency benefits. A spokesperson stated, “eVisas cannot be lost, stolen, or tampered with, unlike physical documents.” They also noted efforts to train airline staff and establish 24/7 helplines to address carrier and border force concerns. However, they acknowledged ongoing issues and pledged to “listen to concerns and work closely with stakeholders.”
While the move to digital documentation represents a step forward in modernising the UK’s immigration system, the current rollout highlights significant gaps in preparation and support. To ensure the success of this initiative, the Home Office must address technical issues, enhance accessibility and provide robust assistance to those impacted by the transition. For now, affected individuals and advocacy groups continue to call for urgent improvements to prevent further disruption and hardship.
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