UK Makes Official Change: If you’re currently holding a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) in the UK, a major shift is underway. After June 2, 2025, your physical BRP will no longer be valid for proving your immigration status or traveling to the UK. The government is replacing BRPs with a digital-only system known as the eVisa, part of the UK’s broader move to a modern, paperless immigration system.
This official change affects millions of residents, including workers, students, and families. If you do not act in time, you may face barriers to re-entering the UK, issues with employment, or even legal consequences. Here’s everything you need to know—and do—before the deadline.
UK Makes Official Change
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Change Date | June 2, 2025 |
| What’s Ending | Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) |
| Replacement | eVisa – secure, digital immigration status proof |
| Who’s Affected | All BRP holders, including dependents and visa categories |
| Transition Deadline | Set up a UKVI account and switch to eVisa before June 2, 2025 |
| Travel After Deadline | BRPs cannot be used for travel; eVisa linked to passport required |
| Official Help | gov.uk/get-access-evisa |
The UK is retiring physical Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) after June 2, 2025, and replacing them with a streamlined digital system known as the eVisa. This shift will improve border security, simplify verification, and reduce paperwork—but it also requires action. Every BRP holder must set up a UKVI account and link their identity before the deadline to avoid legal and travel complications. Start your transition now to secure your rights and enjoy the benefits of a future-ready immigration system.
Why Is the UK Removing Biometric Residence Permits?
The UK Home Office is transitioning to a digital-first immigration system to make processes faster, more secure, and globally accessible. Unlike BRPs, which are physical and prone to damage, loss, or fraud, the eVisa offers real-time verification for border officers, landlords, and employers through a centralized online system.
This change will streamline right-to-work, right-to-rent, and travel documentation, while aligning with similar moves in other advanced economies.
What Is an eVisa?
An eVisa is a secure online record of your UK immigration status, viewable through a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account. Once linked to your passport, it eliminates the need for physical ID cards.
Instead of showing a BRP, you’ll now log in to your UKVI account and generate a “share code”—a temporary code you can give to employers, landlords, schools, or airlines to confirm your legal status.
Who Will Be Affected by the BRP Deadline?
Anyone who holds a BRP will be impacted. This includes:
- Skilled Workers and Sponsored Employees
- International Students
- Spouses or Dependents of UK Citizens
- Family Visa Holders
- Asylum Seekers granted limited leave
- Children and minors with dependent visas or student status
Even if your BRP card says it’s valid until December 31, 2024, your immigration permission might extend beyond that. That’s because the UK government intentionally shortened BRP validity to push all users into the eVisa system by 2025.
Timeline You Must Follow
- By December 31, 2024: All BRPs will expire regardless of your visa’s actual duration.
- Until June 1, 2025: You may travel using an expired BRP only if your immigration permission is still valid.
- From June 2, 2025: You must use an eVisa linked to your passport. BRPs will not be accepted for any purpose.
Step-by-Step Guide to Switch from BRP to eVisa
Step 1: Set Up a UKVI Account
Go to gov.uk/get-access-evisa and follow the instructions to create an account. Use your most recent email from your visa application.
Step 2: Link Your Passport or BRP
You will be asked to provide a document—either your current passport or expired BRP—to confirm your identity.
Step 3: Use the UK Immigration ID Check App
This app is used to scan your face and document for identity confirmation. It’s available on Android and iOS.
Step 4: Access and Share Your eVisa
Once verified, you can view your immigration status and generate share codes for job applications, property rentals, or re-entry into the UK.
Step 5: Update Passport Details if Needed
If you change your passport in the future, you must log into your UKVI account and update your passport number. Failure to do so could disrupt your travel or legal standing.
What If You Don’t Transition in Time?
Failure to move to an eVisa by June 2, 2025 could lead to:
- Being denied entry at UK airports.
- Losing proof of your right to work or rent.
- Facing delays in medical treatment or education access.
- Potential visa cancellation under UK immigration law.
Legal experts warn that non-compliance could result in a loss of leave to remain, especially for long-term visa holders.
eVisa for International Travel
After June 2025, when you re-enter the UK, airline staff will no longer accept a BRP. Instead, they will verify your passport against the eVisa system. Make sure your eVisa account is linked to your current passport, not an old one.
Always carry:
- Your current passport
- A printout or digital copy of your share code or eVisa confirmation email
What About My Children or Dependents?
If you are the parent or guardian of a minor who holds a BRP, you must also transition their information to an eVisa. Use the child’s BRP/passport and create a linked account under your supervision.
Some minors might not have access to the ID check app, in which case manual verification is available through UKVI.
Help for People With Limited Digital Access
The UK government is aware that not everyone is digitally savvy. That’s why they’ve launched:
- Home Office contact centers
- Free online tutorials
- Helplines for people with accessibility needs
- Community outreach via Citizens Advice and refugee support organizations
What Employers and Landlords Need to Do
If you’re hiring or renting to someone who holds an eVisa:
- Ask them for a share code.
- Visit gov.uk/view-right-to-work or gov.uk/view-right-to-rent.
- Enter their code and date of birth to confirm their status.
Employers can even save verification screenshots for audit purposes.
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How Does the UK’s eVisa System Compare Globally?
- European Union: The EU also plans to roll out digital visas (ETIAS) for travelers starting in 2025.
- Australia: Already operates a fully digital visa system.
- USA: Relies more on physical visas and green cards, but elements of digitization are underway.
The UK is one of the first countries to completely eliminate physical immigration cards for residents and visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions About UK Makes Official Change
Q1: Can I stay in the UK after my BRP expires if I haven’t switched to eVisa?
You might legally stay if your immigration status is valid, but you won’t be able to prove it without an eVisa.
Q2: Do I need to pay for eVisa?
No, if you’re already in the UK on a valid visa, accessing your eVisa is free.
Q3: What if I don’t have a smartphone for ID check?
You can contact UKVI for manual verification options or visit a support center.
Q4: Can I use eVisa while traveling in other countries?
eVisa is only used to prove your status in the UK. Carry a visa sticker or confirmation if you’re traveling elsewhere.
Q5: Will this impact my Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)?
No, but you still need to register for an eVisa to prove your ILR digitally.
