What you need to know about the BRP's replacement
The UK government has introduced an electronic visa, known as the e-Visa, to replace the physical Biometric Residence Permit (BRP), which expired on 31st December 2024. This change is part of the UK’s move towards a fully digital immigration system.
If you're living, working, or studying in the UK as a visa holder, it’s important to understand how the e-Visa works, how to use it, and why it’s an improvement over the BRP.
What is an e-Visa?
An e-Visa is a digital record of your immigration status in the UK. It contains information about your visa, including:
- Your name and date of birth
- The type of visa you hold (e.g., Student, Graduate, Skilled Worker)
- The start and end dates of your visa
- Any conditions attached to your visa (e.g., work restrictions)
Unlike the BRP, which was a physical card, the e-Visa is entirely online. This means you won’t need to carry a card to prove your immigration status. Instead, you can access your e-Visa using a secure online account known as the UKVI Account.
Why Has the BRP Been Replaced?
The UK government decided to phase out BRPs as part of its goal to modernise and digitise immigration processes. Here are some key reasons for the change:
- Security: Digital records are harder to lose or damage than physical cards.
- Convenience: Your e-Visa can be accessed online at any time, making it easier to prove your immigration status when travelling or dealing with employers and landlords.
- Efficiency: Updating your details, such as a new passport or change of address, is quicker and simpler with an online system.
From 1st January 2025, e-Visas linked to your passport will be the primary way for immigration officials, employers, and travel companies to check your immigration status.
How Does the e-Visa Work?
Your e-Visa is linked to the travel document you used when you applied for it—usually your passport. When you travel, airlines and border officials can check your visa status electronically by scanning your passport.
If you change your passport or any personal details, you must update your UKVI Account to ensure the e-Visa remains valid and up to date.
How to Access Your e-Visa
To view your e-Visa, you’ll need to create a UKVI Account. Here’s how:
- Visit the official UKVI website: www.gov.uk/get-access-evisa.
- Use your passport details or previous visa application reference number (GWF) to register.
- Once your account is set up, you can log in to view or update your e-Visa at any time.
What Should You Do Now?
If you previously had a BRP, you must now ensure your e-Visa is correctly set up and linked to your passport. Follow these steps:
- Check if you already have a UKVI Account. Many recent visa holders already do.
- If you don’t have an account, create one using the link above.
- Keep your UKVI Account up to date. Update your details immediately if you renew your passport or if any of your personal information changes.
Travelling with an e-Visa
When travelling to and from the UK, your e-Visa will be checked electronically. However, if you still have a valid BRP, carry it as a backup for the first few months of 2025, as recommended by the UKVI.
Benefits of the e-Visa
- No physical card to lose: All your visa details are securely stored online.
- Easier updates: Changes to your personal details can be updated online without needing a new card.
- Accessible anytime: View your visa information from anywhere with internet access.
Need Help?
If you’re unsure about setting up your e-Visa or have questions about your immigration status, you can check out a helpful guide we have attached.