If you are a holder of a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) in the UK, there are crucial changes coming your way that you need to be aware of.

Many have noticed that their BRP, which serves as evidence of their immigration status, is set to expire on 31 December 2024. Whilst your immigration status remains unaffected by this (unless your visa expires on the same date), there is a significant shift happening from 2025 onwards in how you will prove your status.

Why this change happening and how this will affect me?

The UK’s border and immigration system are moving into a digital realm. Physical documents such as BRPs and visa stickers will soon become relics of the past, making way for eVisas. The aim is to create a more secure and accessible way of managing your immigrations status. The benefits of eVisas are numerous; they are secure, accessible anywhere, and you are able to update your personal details effortlessly.

If you have obtained British citizenship since your last BRP issuance, you now have the right of abode in the UK. To demonstrate your right to reside in the country, you can use a British citizen passport or a certificate of entitlement. If you now hold a British passport, you will not be affected by this development and no action is required on your part.

If you are not a British or Irish citizen, you will need to act before your BRP expires on 31 December 2024. You will need to create a UKVI account to access your eVisa (if you do not already possess an eVisa). This is a straightforward process requiring essential details including your date of birth, BRP number and passport information. The Home Office have announced that they will reach out to anyone concerned, or their legal representative, either way.

What shall I do, if I am travelling?

When travelling overseas this year, you should continue to carry your current valid BRP until its expiration. The Home Office claims that, from this Summer onwards, in the event that your passport or other identity document that you are travelling with is linked to your UKVI account, airlines and other transport operators will have the capability to electronically verify your authorisation to enter the UK.

We recommend that anyone with a BRP that is due to expire at the end of this year continues to stay informed and look out for any further guidance from the Home Office.

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How can Melrose Immigration Lawyers assist you?

Our team is highly experienced in advising on UK visa matters. If you have any questions arising from this blog, please do not hesitate to contact us for advice, send us an e-mail. 

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