The UK Home Office initiated the phased introduction of the eVisa (electronic visa) system on 17 April 2024. This digital immigration status replaces physical documents such as BRPs and BRCs, with the goal of transitioning nearly all UK visa holders to eVisa by 2025. As of February 2025, more than 4 million visa holders have already switched to eVisa, while approximately 600,000 still need to complete the transition. The Home Office strongly encourages those who have not yet switched to do so as soon as possible.

By When Must You Switch to eVisa?

The Home Office has extended the grace period for eVisa transition until 1 June 2025. Holders of Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) or EUSS Biometric Residence Cards (BRCs) that expired on or after 31 December 2024 may continue to use these documents for entry to the UK until 1 June 2025, provided their underlying immigration status remains valid. From 2 June 2025, expired BRPs, BRCs, and other physical documents will no longer be accepted for entry or as proof of status. It is essential to complete your eVisa transition before this deadline.

How Long Can You Use Your BRP, Physical Documents, or Vignette for Entry?

Expired BRPs, BRCs, visa vignettes (stickers in passports), and paper residence permits will remain valid for entry to the UK until 1 June 2025, as long as the holder’s immigration status is still current. After this date, these documents will not be recognised for entry or status verification, and only an eVisa will be accepted.

Which Visas Will No Longer Receive a Vignette (Visa Sticker)?

From December 2024, the Home Office has begun phasing out the issuance of visa vignettes (stickers in passports) for new overseas visa grants. Nearly all visa categories—including student, work, family, and visitor visas—are now being issued as eVisas only. Applicants will no longer receive a physical vignette in their passport; instead, their status will be available digitally via their UKVI account and verified electronically at the border.

What Should You Do If You Only Have a Paper Permit or Passport Stamp?

If you hold a paper residence permit, an ink stamp, or an old vignette in your passport, you are required to transition to the eVisa system in line with the Home Office’s digital strategy. For those with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) evidenced only by a paper document or passport stamp, you must first apply for a No Time Limit (NTL) BRP and then switch to an eVisa.

Should You Keep Your Existing BRP Card?

Even after switching to eVisa, you should retain your BRP card. It may be required for future immigration applications, status verification, or record-keeping. If your BRP has been lost, you can still create a UKVI account using your passport and visa application reference number.

Immigration requirements and procedures may vary depending on your visa type and personal circumstances. For specific enquiries, please call 020 3865 6219 or leave a message. We are committed to resolving your immigration matters promptly and accurately.