In a significant update for those transitioning to the UK’s eVisa system, the Home Office has announced an extension of the ‘grace period’ until 1st June 2025. Originally set to conclude on 31st March 2025, this extension provides additional time for individuals holding Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) or EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) Biometric Residence Cards (BRCs) that expire on or after 31st December 2024. As long as they still have valid underlying immigration status, these individuals can continue using their expired documents for international travel until the new deadline.
No Further Extensions Beyond 1 June 2025
While this extension offers a temporary reprieve, the Home Office has made it clear that 1st June 2025 will be the final deadline. From 2nd June 2025 onwards, expired BRPs and EUSS BRCs will no longer be acceptable as evidence of immigration status when travelling to the UK. Initially, the Government had stated that the grace period would be ‘kept under review,’ but this latest announcement confirms that no further extensions will be granted.
The Shift to eVisas
The UK Government originally planned to fully implement the eVisa system from 1st January 2025. However, in December 2024, it postponed the full rollout due to concerns that an abrupt transition could lead to administrative issues akin to the Windrush scandal. The additional time allows affected individuals to ensure they have completed the necessary steps to transition smoothly to the new system.
According to the Home Office, over 4 million people have already successfully switched to eVisas. However, an estimated 600,000 people have yet to make the transition from physical documents to the digital system.
Seema Malhotra, the Minister for Migration and Citizenship, welcomed the progress so far, stating that the high adoption rate was encouraging. She added: “We continue to listen carefully to feedback, and our confirmation that expired immigration documents can be used for travel until June this year will help to further ensure the transition to eVisas continues to be as smooth as possible.”
Despite the extension, the Home Office continues to urge individuals who have not yet created an account for their eVisa to do so as soon as possible. Those who have yet to transition should take advantage of this additional time to ensure they can access their eVisa and avoid travel complications after 1st June 2025.
What You Need to Do
If you currently hold a BRP or EUSS BRC and have not yet switched to an eVisa, we strongly recommend taking the following steps:
Create an online UKVI account: This is necessary to access and manage your eVisa.
Check your current immigration status: Ensure that your details are correct and up to date.
Familiarise yourself with digital status verification: Learn how to prove your immigration status using the eVisa system.
Contact legal professionals if you need assistance: If you encounter issues, seeking legal advice can help you navigate the transition smoothly.
At Arlingsworth Solicitors, we specialise in immigration law and can provide expert guidance on switching to the eVisa system. If you have any concerns or require assistance with your immigration status, please get in touch with our team.
