Starting today, millions of UK residents will receive email invitations to transition to an eVisa system, marking a shift away from traditional physical immigration documents like Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs).

The move, initiated by the Home Office, aims to enhance security and efficiency while offering greater convenience to the public. Residents will receive email invitations to create a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account, which will now serve as digital proof of their legal immigration status. 

At this moment, the process is by invitation only, however, it will open up to all BRP holders by this summer.

“eVisas are central to making the UK safer by reducing the risk of fraud, loss and abuse of physical documents, strengthening border security, and providing a more secure way to prove immigration status. This will pave the way for increased automation to deliver the government’s vision for a contactless border,” said the Home Office. 

eVisas offer some substantial benefits, they cannot be lost, stolen or tampered with, and residents can also access their eVisas in real-time from anywhere, giving them greater control over their data. In addition, changes to contact or passport details can be updated swiftly. 

Organisations that require proof of immigration status can also conduct simple checks with the GOV.UK website, and public bodies like NHS England and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) can securely access an individual’s status when they apply for benefits and public services.

While there are some significant advantages, the move also comes with some disadvantages. Unlike a physical document, eVisas rely on internet connectivity for verification, which raises concerns about its reliability during outages. 

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Despite these challenges, millions already use eVisas through schemes like the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS), indicating the technology’s efficacy. Individuals with existing eVisas need not take additional steps but are advised to keep their information up to date in their UKVI account.

The UK government still advises individuals to carry their valid physical immigration documents when travelling internationally until they expire, as the UK continues its journey toward a fully digitalised border system by 2025.