The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration has announced that the UK will introduce an Electronic Visa (E-Visa) system starting January 1, 2025, replacing all physical visa documents, including Biometric Residence Permits (BRP) and Residence Cards (BRC). This shift aims to simplify visa processing and improve security.
Key points include:
1. Mandatory E-Visas: From January 1, 2025, anyone planning to stay in the UK for more than six months will need to apply for an E-Visa, which will be the sole valid document for long-term residency.
2. BRP Expiry: All BRPs will expire on December 31, 2024, even if they were originally set to expire later. Holders must transition to E-Visas to maintain their status in the UK.
3. Travel Advisory: The Ministry advises travelers planning holiday travel outside the UK to secure their E-Visas before December 31, 2024, to avoid re-entry issues.
The Ministry encourages all affected individuals to consult the British High Commission’s website or UK immigration authorities for guidance on applying for E-Visas.
