The UK authorities have once again urged all foreign visa holders who legally reside in the country and use a physical immigration document to switch to an eVisa without any further delay.
In its most recent statement, the UK Home Office said that this procedure should be completed “now” while stressing that the new changes are to their benefit, VisaGuide.World reports.
Those yet to switch are encouraged to do so before the end of the year to make the most of the benefits of using an eVisa, joining the millions – including all EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) status holders – who already have an eVisa.
This call from the Home Office comes as most biometric residence permits (BRPs) and biometric residence cards (BRCs) will expire this December and as part of the country’s plan to digitize its border and immigration system.
As emphasized by the authorities, eVisas are an important element in the move to enhance people’s experience and increase the security and efficiency of the immigration system.
The process of switching to an eVisa is free of charge and very straightforward, offering convenience for all those who need to complete this step.
Moreover, the authorities noted that an eVisa is safer as the document cannot be lost or stolen, and it allows its holders to prove their immigration rights instantly.
An eVisa cannot be lost, stolen or tampered with, and allows visa holders to instantly and securely prove their immigration rights. Switching won’t change, impact or remove someone’s current rights or immigration status.
Over 3 Million People Have Already Switched to an eVisa, Data Show
Data provided by the UK Home Office show that more than three million people have already switched from using physical immigration documents to an eVisa.
Commenting on the positive figures, the UK Minister for Migration and Citizenship, Seema Malhotra, said that it is very encouraging to see the large number of people who have taken action to access their eVisa.
Minister Malhotra further noted that for those who have not yet made the switch to an eVisa, there is a wide range of support and guidance available.
In an attempt to help the smooth transition to eVisas, airlines, and carriers will be accepting BRPs and BRCs expiring on December 31, 2024, or later as proof of permission to travel to the UK. However, at one point, this group of people will also need to make the switch
I am pleased to confirm greater flexibility on carriers accepting expired documents to smooth the transition for those traveling internationally without compromising on border security.
Once the process is completed, the authorities are expected to share data on the number of those who have made the switch.