The Government is replacing physical immigration documents with a digital proof of immigration status called an eVisa. Nearly all physical immigration documents will be phased out and replaced with a digital proof of immigration status by 2025.
Colchester residents who currently use a physical immigration document, such as a biometric residence permit (BRP), or legacy paper document such as a passport containing ink stamps or a vignette sticker (if they have indefinite leave to enter or indefinite leave to remain) should take action to create a UKVI account to access their eVisa in 2024. It is free of charge and straightforward to set up. Detailed instructions are available on the Government’s official eVisa webpage at www.gov.uk/evisa.
Support will be available for Colchester residents at the Salvation Army's Migrant Hub on 15 November, from 10:00 am to 2:30 pm. Staff from RAMA, Essex Integration, and CCC's Communities team will be on hand to assist those needing help with creating their UKVI account and transitioning to an eVisa. Everyone is welcome. No booking is required.
Cllr David King, Leader of the council, said: “Moving from papers to a digital eVisa system may concern current UK residents and new visa applicants. But we are here, with partners, to help. Consolidating immigration records in a secure, accessible format will ensure that individuals can easily confirm their status and verify their rights to work, rent accommodation, access public benefits, and travel internationally, providing them with a reliable and streamlined way to manage their immigration status.”
Page last reviewed: 12 November 2024