The UK eVisa implementation in 2025 is one of the biggest transformations in immigration history as the UK moves to a totally digital immigration system. This means that many people with visas will have to stop using physical documents like the Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) and switch to a UK digital visa system that is completely online.
Adam Bernard Solicitors knows that this change is both helpful and new, but it also presents severe issues for people, families, schools, workers, and communities who are already vulnerable. It is our job to make sure that you understand and feel confident about these changes.
What is the UK eVisa?
The UK eVisa is a safe online record of your immigration status. It replaces paper-based or physical visa documents like the BRP. You can use a digital share code system to share your status with employers, landlords, institutions, and government services by signing into your UKVI account.
The government wants to improve border and immigration services, and this change is part of that plan. But for a lot of people, figuring out how to apply for a UK visa online, connect a passport, or switch from a BRP to an eVisa is hard.
UK eVisa Rollout 2025: Key Milestones
The government has already started phasing in eVisas, and by 2025, all visa holders are expected to use this system. The UK eVisa timeline includes gradual rollouts for students, skilled workers, and other immigration categories. The UK eVisa implementation phases mean that some groups will move sooner than others, but eventually, all BRPs will expire and be replaced with eVisas.
eVisa versus BRP: What’s Different?
- BRP (Biometric Residence Permit): A physical card with your immigration details.
- eVisa: A digital status linked to your UKVI account and passport.
The reliance on digital systems means that UK eVisa registration problems or share code errors can cause delays and distress, despite the fact that an eVisa cannot be lost or stolen like a physical card.
Benefits of the UK Digital Visa System
There are clear benefits to the UK’s digital visa system:
- Convenient online access
- Easier to share proof of status with employers or landlords
- No risk of losing physical documents
- This system will make living in the UK easier for a lot of people. But we also need to be aware of the risks.
Common Issues with the UK eVisa
The deployment has not gone smoothly, even though it was supposed to. Some of the most important issues are:
Technical problems with UK eVisa are making it hard to get to
Login problems that stop candidates from establishing their immigration status
eVisa digital exclusion for older people, those who are vulnerable, or people who don’t know much about technology
Concerns about eVisa Windrush, with campaigners fearing that people could be wrongfully excluded again
eVisa not being accepted as ID when travelling or looking for work
Expired BRP travel delays, where people with legal status were turned away
UK eVisa flights turned away because of problems with airport systems
Share code not working, therefore applicants can’t show that they have the right to rent or work
It is still not apparent how to help refugees and other disadvantaged groups.
Reports in the media about delays with eVisas and mounting criticism of the launch
UK eVisa vs ETA: What’s the Difference?
It’s important not to confuse the UK eVisa with the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).
- eVisa: For residents and visa holders already living or working in the UK.
- ETA: For travellers visiting the UK short-term (similar to an electronic entry permit).
Both are digital, but they serve different purposes.
How We Can Help
At Adam Bernard Solicitors, we have been supporting clients through every stage of immigration for years. As the UK eVisa rollout 2025 unfolds, we can assist you in:
- Setting up your UKVI account and linking your passport correctly
- Troubleshooting login problems, share code errors, or technical issues
- Advising on switching from BRP to eVisa smoothly
- Protecting the rights of students, skilled workers, refugees, and vulnerable groups
- Offering urgent legal assistance in cases of flight denial, expired BRP delays, or digital exclusion
- Providing representation if your immigration rights are unfairly challenged during the transition
Our team understands the importance of reliable status verification for your right to work, rent, and travel. We ensure you are never left without access to the documents you need to live securely in the UK.
