Important Updates
Important Updates
May 21, 2025 | United StatesUnited States: Protecting Against Immigration Fraud Schemes
May 21, 2025 | United KingdomLBN: Youth Mobility is a Good Start - But Britain’s Immigration System Still Needs a Business Reset
May 21, 2025 | United StatesNegocios Now Names Associate Ana Gabriela Urizar to NYC-TriState Latinos 40 Under 40 Class of 2025
May 21, 2025 | South AfricaSouth Africa: Extended Duration of Stay for Nationals of Lesotho
May 21, 2025 | United Arab EmiratesUnited Arab Emirates: Reminder of 2025 Deadline for Mainland Private Sector Employers to Increase Emiratization Rate
May 21, 2025 | United StatesUnited States: Protecting Against Immigration Fraud Schemes
May 21, 2025 | United KingdomLBN: Youth Mobility is a Good Start - But Britain’s Immigration System Still Needs a Business Reset
May 21, 2025 | United StatesNegocios Now Names Associate Ana Gabriela Urizar to NYC-TriState Latinos 40 Under 40 Class of 2025
May 21, 2025 | South AfricaSouth Africa: Extended Duration of Stay for Nationals of Lesotho
May 21, 2025 | United Arab EmiratesUnited Arab Emirates: Reminder of 2025 Deadline for Mainland Private Sector Employers to Increase Emiratization Rate
May 21, 2025 | United StatesUnited States: Protecting Against Immigration Fraud Schemes
Subscribe
Fragomen.com home
Select Language
  • English
  • French
  • French - Canadian
  • German

Select Language

  • English
  • French
  • French - Canadian
  • German
ContactCareersMedia
Search Fragomen.com
  • Our Services
    For EmployersFor IndividualsBy IndustryCase Studies
  • Our Tech & Innovation
  • Our People
  • Our Insights
    Worldwide Immigration Trends ReportsImmigration AlertsEventsMedia MentionsFragomen NewsBlogsPodcastsVideos
  • Spotlights
    Navigating Immigration Under the Second Trump AdministrationHumanitarian and Evolving Legal Pathways (HELP)Vietnamese ImmigrationImmigration Matters: Your U.S. Compliance RoadmapFragomen Consulting EuropeAustralian Immigration: New Skills in Demand Visa
  • About Us
    About FragomenOfficesResponsible Business PracticesFirm GovernanceRecognition

Our Services

  • For Employers
  • For Individuals
  • By Industry
  • Case Studies

Our Tech & Innovation

  • Our Approach

Our People

  • Overview / Directory

Our Insights

  • Worldwide Immigration Trends Reports
  • Immigration Alerts
  • Events
  • Media Mentions
  • Fragomen News
  • Blogs
  • Podcasts
  • Videos

Spotlights

  • Navigating Immigration Under the Second Trump Administration
  • Humanitarian and Evolving Legal Pathways (HELP)
  • Vietnamese Immigration
  • Immigration Matters: Your U.S. Compliance Roadmap
  • Fragomen Consulting Europe
  • Australian Immigration: New Skills in Demand Visa

About Us

  • About Fragomen
  • Offices
  • Responsible Business Practices
  • Firm Governance
  • Recognition
Select Language
  • English
  • French
  • French - Canadian
  • German

Select Language

  • English
  • French
  • French - Canadian
  • German
ContactCareersMedia
  • Insights

United Kingdom: eVisa System on Track for 2025 Commencement

February 27, 2025

insight-news-default

Country / Territory

  • United KingdomUnited Kingdom

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

At a Glance

  • As part of efforts to fully digitalize its immigration system, the United Kingdom is phasing out the use of physical immigration documents, with eVisas to replace current physical equivalents.
  • By the end of 2024, physical immigration documents such as Biometric Residence Cards, Biometric Residence Permits, passport endorsements, and physical ‘vignette’ visa stickers which provide proof of the immigration status a person holds will no longer be issued. Instead, from 2025, the immigration status of all persons will be recorded electronically and will be accessible through an online United Kingdom Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account, linked to the individual’s travel document.
  • Update December 4, 2024: The government has confirmed that if there are issues with securing or accessing eVisas (such as if there are technical issues with the application system, as have been reported recently), applicants can use expired Biometric Residence Permits to prove their immigration status and to generate share codes to prove permission to travel, until March 2025 (this date is subject to change).
    • Update February 27, 2025: This grace period has been extended until June 1, 2025.
  • This new format will have no effect on visa or permit eligibility or application criteria and requirements. Rather, the exclusive use of eVisas will only change the way individuals prove their immigration status. 
  • Biometric Residence Cards and Biometric Residence Permits show an expiry of December 31, 2024. Holders of these document plus those with passport endorsements and physical vignette visa stickers should set up a UKVI account to access their eVisa. BETA testing is underway and will be open to the majority of individuals during the UK summer of 2024. Update August 8, 2024: Those with a Biometric Residence Permit expiring on December 31, 2024 can now create a UKVI account and access their eVisa, without needing an invitation from UKVI. Those who have lost their Biometric Residence Permit can use their travel document, such as a passport, or visa application reference number to create their UKVI account. If individuals cannot see their eVisa details as soon as they create their UKVI account, they do not need to anything; UKVI will contact them directly by email once their eVisa is available to view.
  • Employers should ensure that existing employees with physical immigration documents are aware of the changes and may need to re-do Right to Work checks where the initial check was conducted manually on a time-limited permission. 

The situation

As part of efforts to fully digitalize its immigration system, the United Kingdom is phasing out the use of physical immigration documents, with eVisas to replace current physical equivalents used to prove immigration status.

A closer look

  • eVisas. By the end of 2024, physical immigration documents  will no longer be issued. Instead, from 2025 on, the government will only issue an eVisa (which is a digital record of a person’s immigration status). 
    • Update December 4, 2024: The government has confirmed that if there are issues with securing or accessing eVisas (such as if there are technical issues with the application system, as have been reported recently), applicants can use expired Biometric Residence Permits to prove their immigration status and to generate share codes to prove permission to travel, until March 2025 (this date is subject to change).
      • Update February 27, 2025: This grace period has been extended until June 1, 2025.
  • No change in legal rights or obligations. Importantly, the use of eVisas – in lieu of physical equivalents – does not affect a person’s immigration status, including any rights or obligations associated with that status. Additionally, this new format will not affect visa or permit eligibility or application criteria and requirements. Rather, the exclusive use of eVisas will only change the way individuals prove their immigration status required to access certain services and benefits in the United Kingdom.
  • UKVI account. Visa applicants and those with existing physical immigration documents will need to set up a UKVI account in order to access their eVisa. UKVI accounts are free. Information about the sign-up procedure can be found here and it will open to all in the UK summer of 2024. Update August 8, 2024: Those with a Biometric Residence Permit expiring on December 31, 2024 can now create a UKVI account and access their eVisa, without needing an invitation from UKVI. Those who have lost their Biometric Residence Permit can use their travel document, such as a passport, or visa application reference number to create their UKVI account. If individuals cannot see their eVisa details as soon as they create their UKVI account, they do not need to anything; UKVI will contact them directly by email once their eVisa is available to view.
  • Employer action. Employers should ensure their right to work processes are up-to-date and using the latest technology. Fragomen’s employment verification solution, WorkRight, can help. To find out more please email [email protected].

Impact

The eVisa system removes the need to carry any documents to prove immigration status. As digital records, eVisas cannot be stolen, lost, or tampered with, therefore providing a safeguard to proving immigration status.

For support with the eVisa transition or to discuss what these changes mean for your population please contact your Fragomen representative.

Background

The eVisa system is part of broader efforts to further digitize the country’s immigration landscape (a process which dates back to 2021, with the country’s announcement of a five-year digitization program for its post-Brexit immigration system). In late 2023, the UK government’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme commenced limited operation, under which all visa-free nationals will eventually need to obtain digital permission to travel or transit through the country. Other endeavors include the online skilled worker eligibility checker, expanded digital use (and reuse) of biometric data, and the full digitalization of application processes for European Economic Area nationals and in-country skilled workers.

Looking ahead

Further digitalization efforts are ahead in the United Kingdom, including further expansion of the country’s ETA system across 2024 and 2025, as well as digitization of the country’s sponsor management system. We will report on related developments.

This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to [email protected].

Country / Territory

  • United KingdomUnited Kingdom

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Share

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Explore more at Fragomen

Media mentions

LBN: Youth Mobility is a Good Start - But Britain’s Immigration System Still Needs a Business Reset

UK Managing Partner Nadine Goldfoot reflects on how the UK’s immigration system might adapt to better support business and short-term mobility.

Learn more

Awards

Negocios Now Names Associate Ana Gabriela Urizar to NYC-TriState Latinos 40 Under 40 Class of 2025

Negocios Now names Associate Ana Gabriela Urizar to its NYC-TriState Latinos 40 Under 40 Class of 2025 list.

Learn more

Video

Digital Nomad Visas Explained: How to Travel and Work Remotely

Learn the key requirements for digital nomad visas and find out which countries you can apply to as a remote worker or freelancer. 

Learn more

Media mentions

Financial Times Adviser: Relocating to the UK: An Immigration Lawyer’s Guide for US clients

Practice Leader Olga Nechita provides practical guidance on navigating UK immigration routes, settlement options and key considerations for applicants.

Learn more

Video

New DOLE Rules for Employing Foreign Nationals | #MobilityMinute

Senior Business Immigration Consultant Missy Mae Makil discusses the new DOLE rules for employing foreign nationals in the Philippines.

Learn more

Media mentions

Research Professional News: Immigration White Paper Offers Employers Costs without Clarity

UK Government Affairs Strategy Director Shuyeb Muquit examines how the UK’s new Immigration White Paper could affect talent mobility and growth in the life sciences sector.

Learn more

Media mentions

An Interview with Partner Abeer Al Husseini (الاقتصادية)

Partner Abeer Al Husseini discusses recent changes in Saudi Arabia's commercial regulations, their impact on international businesses and how they support Vision 2030.

Learn more

Awards

Fragomen and Talent Beyond Boundaries Win "Partnership with an International Charity" at Better Society 2025 Awards

Fragomen and Talent Beyond Boundaries received the “Partnership with an International Charity” award at the 10th Annual Better Society Awards.

Learn more

Blog post

Freelance Licence in the UAE: What You Need to Know in 2025

Corporate Services Director Elena Caron outlines essential information and updates regarding obtaining a freelance licence in the UAE, highlighting key requirements and benefits for freelancers.

Learn more

Media mentions

Global Mobility Lawyer: Immigration White Paper Sends Message That the UK is “Closed for Business”

Partner Rajiv Naik discussed how UK employers can prepare for immigration reforms by reviewing policies and aligning mobility with workforce planning.

Learn more

Blog post

A System Reset Presents Challenges and Opportunities: The UK’s Immigration White Paper in Focus

UK Government Affairs Strategy Director Shuyeb Muquit discusses how the UK’s Immigration White Paper presents both challenges and opportunities, highlighting the need for a system reset to address immigration issues effectively.

Learn more

Media mentions

AMCHAM Luxembourg: Interview – Virginie Todesco, Fragomen

Immigration Manager Virginie Todesco highlights how Luxembourg’s clear immigration system and strategic reforms attract global talent and employers.

Learn more

Media mentions

LBN: Youth Mobility is a Good Start - But Britain’s Immigration System Still Needs a Business Reset

UK Managing Partner Nadine Goldfoot reflects on how the UK’s immigration system might adapt to better support business and short-term mobility.

Learn more

Awards

Negocios Now Names Associate Ana Gabriela Urizar to NYC-TriState Latinos 40 Under 40 Class of 2025

Negocios Now names Associate Ana Gabriela Urizar to its NYC-TriState Latinos 40 Under 40 Class of 2025 list.

Learn more

Video

Digital Nomad Visas Explained: How to Travel and Work Remotely

Learn the key requirements for digital nomad visas and find out which countries you can apply to as a remote worker or freelancer. 

Learn more

Media mentions

Financial Times Adviser: Relocating to the UK: An Immigration Lawyer’s Guide for US clients

Practice Leader Olga Nechita provides practical guidance on navigating UK immigration routes, settlement options and key considerations for applicants.

Learn more

Video

New DOLE Rules for Employing Foreign Nationals | #MobilityMinute

Senior Business Immigration Consultant Missy Mae Makil discusses the new DOLE rules for employing foreign nationals in the Philippines.

Learn more

Media mentions

Research Professional News: Immigration White Paper Offers Employers Costs without Clarity

UK Government Affairs Strategy Director Shuyeb Muquit examines how the UK’s new Immigration White Paper could affect talent mobility and growth in the life sciences sector.

Learn more

Media mentions

An Interview with Partner Abeer Al Husseini (الاقتصادية)

Partner Abeer Al Husseini discusses recent changes in Saudi Arabia's commercial regulations, their impact on international businesses and how they support Vision 2030.

Learn more

Awards

Fragomen and Talent Beyond Boundaries Win "Partnership with an International Charity" at Better Society 2025 Awards

Fragomen and Talent Beyond Boundaries received the “Partnership with an International Charity” award at the 10th Annual Better Society Awards.

Learn more

Blog post

Freelance Licence in the UAE: What You Need to Know in 2025

Corporate Services Director Elena Caron outlines essential information and updates regarding obtaining a freelance licence in the UAE, highlighting key requirements and benefits for freelancers.

Learn more

Media mentions

Global Mobility Lawyer: Immigration White Paper Sends Message That the UK is “Closed for Business”

Partner Rajiv Naik discussed how UK employers can prepare for immigration reforms by reviewing policies and aligning mobility with workforce planning.

Learn more

Blog post

A System Reset Presents Challenges and Opportunities: The UK’s Immigration White Paper in Focus

UK Government Affairs Strategy Director Shuyeb Muquit discusses how the UK’s Immigration White Paper presents both challenges and opportunities, highlighting the need for a system reset to address immigration issues effectively.

Learn more

Media mentions

AMCHAM Luxembourg: Interview – Virginie Todesco, Fragomen

Immigration Manager Virginie Todesco highlights how Luxembourg’s clear immigration system and strategic reforms attract global talent and employers.

Learn more

Stay in touch

Subscribe to receive our latest immigration alerts

Subscribe

Our firm

  • About
  • Careers
  • Firm Governance
  • Media Inquiries
  • Recognition

Information

  • Attorney Advertising
  • Legal Notices
  • Privacy Policies
  • UK Regulatory Requirements

Our firm

  • About
  • Careers
  • Firm Governance
  • Media Inquiries
  • Recognition

Information

  • Attorney Advertising
  • Legal Notices
  • Privacy Policies
  • UK Regulatory Requirements

Have a question?

Contact Us
  • LinkedIn
  • Youtube
  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

© 2025 Fragomen, Del Rey, Bernsen & Loewy, LLP, Fragomen Global LLP and affiliates. All Rights Reserved.

Please note that the content made available on this site is not intended for visitors / customers located in the province of Quebec, and the information provided is not applicable to the Quebec market. To access relevant information that applies to the Quebec market, please click here.