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UK eVisa: The Future of Immigration for South Africans in the UK

The UK government is transitioning to a fully digital system for proving immigration status, known as eVisas. This shift marks a significant change in how you’ll demonstrate your right to live and work in the UK, especially if your BRP is set to expire.

By Ryan Rennison - Published 2024-09-18

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Are you a South African living in the UK with a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)?

If so, it’s time to pay attention to an important change in UK immigration policy that will affect you directly.

The UK government is transitioning to a fully digital system for proving immigration status, known as eVisas. This shift marks a significant change in how you’ll demonstrate your right to live and work in the UK, especially if your BRP is set to expire.

Key Points for South Africans to Note:

  1. All BRPs are expiring on December 31, 2024, regardless of the visa’s original duration.
  2. eVisas will replace physical cards, making the immigration process entirely paperless.
  3. You’ll need to create a UKVI account and download the UK Immigration app to access your eVisa.

How to Prepare for Your eVisa

To apply for your eVisa, you’ll need:

  • A smartphone capable of downloading the UK Immigration app
  • A UK mobile phone number
  • Your current BRP card
  • Your passport
  • Your GWF or UAN reference number

Expert Insights from Gwen Vermeulen

To provide more clarity on this transition, I recently interviewed Gwen Vermeulen, Senior Immigration and British Nationality Expert at Move Up UK Immigration. Watch our discussion here:

UK eVisa Explained: South Africans, Prepare for the Future of UK Immigration

Need Assistance?

Navigating this new system can be challenging. That’s why we’ve created evisa.co.za to help facilitate the process for South Africans. Our team of experts, including Gwen, are ready to guide you through each step of obtaining your eVisa. Don’t wait until the last minute to secure your digital immigration status. Contact us today to ensure a smooth transition to the UK’s new eVisa system. Stay tuned for more updates on UK immigration policies and how they affect South Africans in the UK!

Check Out eVisa.co.za

UK Visa Extensions

Our South African team willing and able to assist in your UK visa extensions.

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Permanent Residence (ILR)

To claim ILR status (Indefinite Leave to Remain), our SA team can help lodge a successful first-time application.

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British Nationality

After continuously residing in the UK for 6 years, South Africans can earn their British nationality through British naturalization. 

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