UK visa holders have reached a significant milestone, with over four million individuals now accessing their eVisas, signaling a major shift to a more modern and efficient immigration system. The Home Office has noted that approximately 600,000 people have yet to transition from traditional physical documents to the digital eVisa platform.

The UK government views eVisas as a cornerstone of its broader initiative to streamline and digitize the immigration process as part of its Plan for Change. The introduction of eVisas is aimed at enhancing the experience for travelers while boosting the overall security and effectiveness of the immigration system. By reducing reliance on physical paperwork, the government aims to create a more efficient, secure, and user-friendly process.

Grace Period Extended Until June 1, 2025

In an effort to support a smooth transition, the Home Office has decided to extend the grace period for physical documents until June 1, 2025. This extension applies to holders of biometric residence permits (BRPs) and European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS) biometric residence cards (BRCs) that expired on or after December 31, 2024. These individuals can continue using their expired documents for international travel until the new deadline, provided they maintain valid immigration status.

After June 1, 2025, however, expired BRPs and EUSS BRCs will no longer be accepted for entry into the UK. The government has urged those who have not yet switched to the eVisa system to do so promptly, ensuring they benefit from the new platform and join the millions already using it, including EUSS status holders.

Ongoing Analysis and Future Plans

Since releasing the first set of eVisa statistics in December 2024, the UK government has carried out further analysis to better understand the demographics of individuals who have not yet made the transition. This data will guide future outreach efforts, ensuring that all eligible visa holders are informed about the upcoming changes. The government continues to prioritize making the transition process as seamless as possible, with an emphasis on security, efficiency, and ease of use.

The move to a fully digital immigration system is expected to not only improve the experience for travelers but also enhance the UK’s ability to manage immigration effectively. As the June 2025 deadline approaches, the Home Office remains committed to supporting visa holders through the transition, ensuring that all eligible travelers can take full advantage of the new, more secure eVisa system.

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