Transitioning to the UK E-Visa for International Students
As you prepare to start your studies in the UK this September 2024—or if you’ve recently arrived—there’s an important update you need to be aware of. The UK is transitioning from physical Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) to a fully digital immigration system called an e-Visa. Whether you’re a prospective student or someone who travelled in previous intakes, understanding this change is crucial for managing your immigration status.
What Is a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)?
For those new to the UK or planning to study here, a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) is a document that has been traditionally issued to international students. It contains vital information such as your name, date of birth, and biometric details like fingerprints and facial images. The BRP also serves as proof of your right to study and access certain public services in the UK.
However, as the UK modernizes its immigration system, these physical BRP cards will be phased out by December 31, 2024. Understanding this shift is essential whether you’re just starting your academic journey or have already settled in.
Introducing the UK e-Visa: Your New Digital Immigration Status
The eVisa is the future of UK immigration. Instead of carrying a physical BRP card, your immigration status will now be stored digitally. This eVisa is an online record that you can easily access to prove your right to study, work, or rent in the UK.
For prospective students, this means that once you receive your visa approval, you will manage your immigration status through an online account rather than waiting for a physical BRP. Current students, especially those with BRPs expiring soon, will need to transition to this new system.
For more details on the eVisa, visit the UK government’s eVisa page.
Why Physical BRPs Are Being Replaced
As part of its digital transformation, the UK government has decided that all physical BRPs will expire by December 31, 2024, regardless of the original end date on the card. This move is aimed at improving efficiency and security, making it easier for international students like you to manage your immigration status.
If you currently have a BRP, it’s important to begin the transition to a UK e-Visa by creating a UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI) account. This digital account will become your primary means of proving your immigration status.
Transitioning to the UK e-Visa: What You Need to Do
Whether you’re a prospective student preparing to arrive in September 2024 or a current student already in the UK, transitioning to an eVisa is straightforward:
Set Up a UKVI Account:
This account is where you’ll access and manage your eVisa. Click here to get started.
Verify Your Identity:
Use the ‘UK Immigration ID Check’ app to confirm your identity and link your eVisa to your UKVI account.
Access and Share Your eVisa:
Once verified, you can view your visa details online, share your status with landlords, employers, and educational institutions, and update your information as needed.
Click here to watch a step-by-step guide on how to create your UKVI account and access your eVisa.
Preparing for September 2024: Key Steps for New Students
If you’re starting your studies this September, you might still receive a BRP card, but with an expiration date of December 31, 2024. Regardless of whether you get a BRP, setting up your UKVI account is crucial for managing your immigration status digitally.
Pro Tip: Create your UKVI account before arriving in the UK to streamline your transition, or complete the setup as soon as possible after your arrival. For more information, visit the UKVI registration page.
Conclusion
For both prospective and current students, embracing this change will make managing your visa easier and more convenient, allowing you to focus on what matters most—your studies.
At Negxy Concept Limited, we’re committed to guiding you through these changes and ensuring your study abroad experience is as smooth and successful as possible.
