Highlights: Biometric cards to be replaced with e-visas in the UK
- United Kingdom will replace physical biometric immigration cards with e-visas from 2025.
- BRPs are currently being provided as a proof of immigration status to immigrants living in the UK.
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Individuals will not require a BRP from January 1, 2025, as the Home Office aims to discontinue the usage of BRPs.
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The immigration status will remain unchanged for candidates with an "Indefinite Leave to Remain" or statuses valid beyond December 31.
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UK to phase out physical biometric immigration cards by 2025
The United Kingdom announced plans to shift from physical immigration status documents by 2025, including Biometric Residence Cards (BRCs), and Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs). The government's plan for E-Visas will replace the current physical documents.
BRPs are currently accepted as proof of immigration status in the UK
The Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) are currently approved as proof of immigration status to non-EU nationals living in the UK, including workers, students, immigrants, and their families. These cards have a chip that the Border Force officers use to confirm a document's validity. It also helps confirm the identification of the individual using fingerprints and facial photos.
All the existing BRPs that have been issued until now will expire on December 31, 2024, regardless of the holder’s immigration status's validity or time limit. EU regulations are no longer applicable in the UK following Brexit, and the Home Office aims to completely stop using BRPs by 2025.
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BRP is not required for candidates from January 1, 2025
A webpage on GOV.UK states that candidates will no longer require BRP from January 1, 2025, and that they can prove their immigration status online without a BRP.
Individuals with immigration status such as those holding "Indefinite Leave to Remain," or with statuses valid beyond December 31 are not required to take any action. Their immigration status will remain unchanged, and will not be required to obtain new status.
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Web Story: UK to issue E-Visas from 2025 instead of biometric cards