Physical immigration documents or biometric residence permits (BRPs) are being replaced with digital proof of immigration status, known as an eVisa. The move comes as part of the UK Government’s plan to “modernise the border” and introduce a digital immigration system.
The rollout began in April, and invitations are being issued in phases before the process is opened up to all BRP holders in summer. Most BRPs have an expiry date of 31 December 2024 and the BRP holder will be asked to create a UKVI account to access their eVisa.*
However, despite Home Office claims that a comprehensive media campaign with a range of communications is underway, it is evident many are not aware of the change and there is a great deal of confusion amongst some migrant communities already. We spoke to some members of our Network about if they are, or will be, impacted and what issues there are around this huge change.
“I am aware of the change but not aware when it comes to real life situation, or how it will impact me”
The main issue raised at this early stage has been the lack of awareness that the change is underway alongside confusion around when they need to register for a UKVI account, if their ability to travel will be impacted while the system is changing and if the system itself will work. Moreover, there is anxiety about how and when they need to take action, alongside scepticism that they will receive an invitation from the Home Office at all.
“The border officials are not ready at all. I re-entered the UK last week and an officer admitted she is not aware of any instructions on how to process eVisas when they are rolled out.”
We also share concerns that some migrants will fall through the cracks as a result of the change and the speed at which it is being implemented. Furthermore, the move to digital-only status relies on the assumption that everyone will have the means to prove their status digitally. Access to data, wifi, smartphones and/or laptops is limited for certain migrant groups especially those in the asylum system.
Digital systems are already causing problems for migrants such as ‘view and prove’ for EU citizens and right to work checking apps that are error-prone, leading to issues like unfair dismissal from work. Additionally, digital borders and surveillance of certain migrant groups that are already disproportionately harmed by borders will likely increase with the implementation of eVisas. Specifically, migrants including undocumented migrants or migrant sex workers who already experience the sharpest end of weaponised tech used in immigration enforcement. These groups are rightly concerned about how their personal data is used by the State particularly around data-sharing. This lack of transparency has led to apprehension, fear of misuse, and distrust.
At Migrants’ Rights Network, we are opposed to eVisas and the wider digitalisation of the Hostile Environment. EVisas and digital-only status ultimately emboldens immigration enforcement in daily life because of the ‘instant’ nature of demanding proof of status by employers, healthcare providers or landlords. Furthermore, the Home Office has demonstrated it is irresponsible when it comes to holding personal data. This notably includes Windrush along with database failures earlier in 2024 where 76,000 migrants were listed with incorrect names, photographs or immigration status. As part of our Hostile Office: Digital Hostile Environment campaign, we will continue to monitor the increased use of technology in immigration systems.
Share your story
Have you been affected by the eVisa changes? Do you have concerns about the move to digital borders? If you feel comfortable sharing your thoughts, we’d love to hear from you. Please contact [email protected]
*If your BRP expires before 31 Dec 2024 then your immigration leave may also expire at that point. If it does, and you wish to stay in the UK, then you can make a visa renewal application in the usual way. If you have other questions relating to the change, the Home Office have compiled a list of FAQs: Media factsheet: eVisas