On September 26, 2024, the Home Office updated its guidance documents, marking the end of the Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) replacement service. In addition to this, the beginning of October marked the end of BRPs being issued. This move is part of a broader shift towards a fully digital immigration system from 1st January 2025. The decision came without a formal announcement, but details were sent to stakeholders on the same day. Keep reading to learn more about the end of the BRP replacement service.
Who will the closure of the BRP replacement affect?
The closure of the BRP replacement will affect the following cohorts:
- Non-EEA national family members of EEA nationals whose Biometric Residence Card (BRC) has expired
- People whose BRP or BRC has been lost or stolen
- People whose relevant personal details on their BRP or BRC have changed (such as name, gender, nationality, or facial appearance changes significantly)
Still necessary to report lost or stolen BRPs
While BRC holders already have access to a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account, BRP holders are now required to create one to obtain their digital eVisa. To do this, they can use their passport and the reference number from their most recent visa application. However, it’s still necessary to report any lost or stolen BRPs.
The Home Office also notified stakeholders that after October 31, 2024, no new BRPs will be issued, which explains the closure of the BRP replacement service. This has not been officially announced on the government website yet. However, Home Office guidance still advises people with indefinite leave in a passport to apply for a BRP through a No Time Limit (NTL) application, which seems contradictory to the closure of BRP replacement service.
How will individuals be able to return to the UK
A key concern is how affected individuals, particularly non-visa nationals, will travel and return to the UK until the end of 2024, when current guidance still instructs people to carry their BRP or BRC until the end of the year. It is likely because the integrates passenger information system with airlines is not yet fully operational.
The Home Office remains confident that its digital solutions will be effective. It has also set up alternative measures to confirm immigration status, “if for any reason the automated response is not provided–including a 24/7 carrier support hub.’’
Why are the Home Office no longer issuing BRPs?
BRPs are set to be replaced by a fully digital immigration system in the form of eVisas. We previously covered what an eVisa is and how you can register for one in an earlier article here.
You can also view our video explainer demonstrating how to register for an eVisa on the Home Office website here.
Our thoughts
In summary, the UK is transitioning to a fully digital immigration status system, and these changes mark the beginning of the end for physical BRPs. While the shift may cause some temporary confusion, the Home Office has set up systems to ensure a smooth transition. As the digital immigration system becomes a trend, we recommend that all UK visa residents transfer their BRP/BRC to an e-visa before the end of 2024, and all residents holding UK ILR vignette complete the NTL application as soon as possible.
Should you wish to know more information about eVisas, please do not hesitate to contact Lisa’s Law and our experienced solicitors will be happy to assist you.
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