Move Up, South Africa’s leading immigration consultancy, urges South African nationals in the UK to act now as Britain’s visa system undergoes a major digital transformation.
The shift to eVisas, set to be fully implemented by 2025, marks a significant change in how immigrants prove their right to live and work in the UK.
What Are eVisas?
eVisas are digital records of immigration status that replace physical documents like Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) and vignettes.
This new system aims to enhance security, streamline processes, and provide a more efficient way for visa holders to prove their status to employers, landlords, and government services.
Key Points for South Africans:
- Deadline Approaching: All visa holders must transition to eVisas by 31 December 2024.
- No Change to Immigration Status: Switching to an eVisa does not affect your current immigration status or conditions.
- UKVI Account Required: To access your eVisa, you’ll need to create a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account at www.gov.uk/get-access-evisa.
- Digital Proof of Status: eVisas allow you to prove your status instantly online, replacing the need for physical documents.
- Travel Implications: From 1 January 2025, an eVisa will be required for international travel to and from the UK.
Steps to Take:
- If you have a BRP expiring on 31 December 2024, create your UKVI account immediately.
- For those with valid visas beyond 2024, transition to an eVisa before your current document expires.
- Keep your UKVI account information, including passport details, up to date.
- Familiarize yourself with the ‘view and prove’ service to share your status with employers and landlords.
Potential Challenges:
While the eVisa system promises greater efficiency, Move Up advises South Africans to be aware of potential teething problems:
- Technical glitches during the transition period
- Possible delays in processing times as the system is implemented
- Employers and landlords adapting to the new digital checking process
Move Up’s Support:
“This digital shift represents a significant change for South Africans in the UK,” says [Name], Director at Move Up. “We’re committed to guiding our clients through this transition, ensuring they maintain their legal status and rights in the UK.”Move Up offers:
- Personalized assistance in creating UKVI accounts
- Guidance on updating and maintaining digital immigration records
- Support in resolving any issues that arise during the transition
Looking Ahead:
The move to eVisas is part of the UK’s broader strategy to create a fully digital border by 2025. This includes the introduction of Electronic Travel Authorisations (ETAs) for visitors, which may affect South Africans traveling to the UK for short stays in the future.South Africans in the UK are encouraged to stay informed about these changes and take proactive steps to secure their digital immigration status. For more information or assistance, contact Move Up at evisa@moveup.co.za or check out our dedicated: evisa.co.za site.