Key Points
- UKVI expanded eVisa access to additional visa holders.
- Eligible groups include those with FAVs or expired identity documents.
- eVisas provide secure digital proof of immigration status.
- Expansion supports the UK’s transition to a fully digital system.
Overview
The United Kingdom (UK) Home Office has expanded access to its UK eVisa Access Expansion program, enabling more visa holders to use the country’s digital immigration system. Through a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account, eligible individuals can now view and manage their immigration status online, replacing reliance on physical documents.
The update primarily affects two groups: individuals who previously received a Form for Affixing a Visa (FAV) and those who obtained a visa extension without holding a valid identity document, such as an expired passport or Biometric Residence Permit (BRP). Both groups are now eligible to create a UKVI account and transition to eVisa services.
This development comes as the UK advances its plan for a fully digital immigration system. eVisas are designed to be secure and tamper-proof, reducing risks associated with lost or stolen documents. They also simplify the process of sharing immigration status with employers, landlords, and government agencies, while facilitating faster border clearance.
Physical documents, including BRPs, have already begun to be phased out, with all BRPs expiring on December 31, 2024. The eVisa expansion is another step in the broader move toward digitalization. For additional insights, see Corporate Immigration Partners’ UK updates.
Key Benefits of eVisa Access
- Secure, tamper-proof digital status
- No risk of loss or theft
- Streamlined status sharing with employers, landlords, and government agencies
- Faster border clearance
Looking Ahead
UKVI is expected to continue expanding eVisa eligibility until all immigration status records are digitized. Employers and organizations should ensure their systems are prepared to handle electronic status checks, while individuals should create UKVI accounts promptly to avoid disruptions.
