The UK government has introduced a grace period for individuals transitioning from physical immigration documents to the new eVisa system. Over 3 million people have already switched from using physical documents to eVisas.
While BRP holders are encouraged to switch to using their eVisa via their UKVI account before their BRP expires, those who haven’t created a UKVI account by 1 January 2025, or whose BRP has expired, will still be able to make the switch easily next year, even using their expired BRP if necessary.
To support this transition, airlines and other carriers are allowed to accept a BRP or EUSS BRC expiring on or after 31 December 2024 as valid proof of permission to travel until at least 31 March 2025.
Most biometric residence permits (BRPs) and biometric residence cards (BRCs) will expire on 31 December 2024. The eVisa serves as an electronic version of the BRP. Individuals can access their eVisa by setting up a free UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account. However, passengers will remain subject to the usual immigration checks, and anyone whose immigration status has expired may be refused entry into the UK.
For those with indefinite leave to remain, who currently use an ink stamp or vignette in their passport as proof of rights, these documents can continue to be used for travel as usual.
The UK government is implementing significant digitization measures, requiring all non-visa foreign visitors to obtain an electronic travel authorization (ETA) by April 2025.
From 27 November 2024, eligible non-Europeans need to apply for an ETA and will need an ETA to travel from 8 January 2025. ETAs will then extend to eligible Europeans from 5 March 2025, who will need an ETA to travel from 2 April 2025.