UK immigration updates on E-visas and Electronic Travel Authorisations
New E-Visa system to take effect on 1 January 2025
Holders of UK Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) need to be aware that from 1 January 2025 such documents will have expired and need to be replaced by a new online “E-visa”.
Over the last few years, BRPs have been issued with an expiry date of 31 December 2025 even though one’s actual visa status may extend much further.
UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) have been developing a new digital immigration system which will replace the issuance of physical documents.
Visa holders should look to create a UKVI account which will then allow you to view your E-visa status. This can then be shared with employers, landlords, banks etc. It will also be the default system for travel into the UK for visa holders from 1 January 2025.
If one currently holds a BRP then they should look to set up a UKVI account.
The following webpage explains in detail the steps required to do so;
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/online-immigration-status-evisa
Furthermore,a Home Office video on YouTube provides further guidance;
Please note that those who have naturalised as British citizens are not required to hold an E-visa.
Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for visiting the UK
The government have provided an update on the continuing roll-out of the new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system.This will be required for certain nationalities in advance of visiting the UK.An ETA is applied for online or via the UK ETA App. It costs £10 to apply and if approved it is valid for 2 years, although each entry as a visitor remains at a maximum of 6 months
An ETA is not required if one already has another valid UK visa. This is just required for those visiting the UK, similar to the ESTA program for the USA.
The weblink below gives a full list of countries that can apply for an ETA and the relevant dates.
For instance, citizens of 49 more countries including Brazil, Canada, Argentina, USA, Grenada, Colombia can apply from 27 November 2024 and it will be a travel requirement from 8 January 2025.
Citizens of EU / EEA countries can apply from 5 March 2025 and it will be a travel requirement from 2 April 2025.
See;
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/check-when-you-can-get-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta