The UK government has announced a nationwide initiative to transition immigrants from physical documents to electronic visas (eVisas) as part of its plan to digitize the border and immigration system. This change will impact Indian students heading to the UK on a student visa for the September 2024 or January 2025 intake.
What Does This Mean for Indian Students?
Students applying for a Student Route Visa before November 1, 2024, may still receive a biometric residence permit (BRP). However, they will be required to switch to an eVisa upon arrival through an online process facilitated by the Home Office. This transition is crucial to ensure that students can prove their immigration status while in the UK.
Who Needs to Switch to an eVisa?
- Current students: Those holding a BRP expiring on December 31, 2024, must switch to an eVisa.
- New students: Those arriving in the UK for the September 2024 or January 2025 intake with a BRP will be required to switch to an eVisa after arrival.
How to Transition to a UK eVisa
1. Create a UKVI account: Visit the UKVI website and create an account using your smartphone, mobile phone number, email address, BRP card or valid passport with BRP number or visa application number.
2. Confirm your identity: Use the ‘UK Immigration ID Check’ app to verify your identity.
3. Access your eVisa: Log into your UKVI account to view and manage your eVisa.
Benefits of eVisas
eVisas offer greater security, eliminating the risk of lost, stolen or tampered-with documents. They also make it easier to prove immigration status. The transition to an eVisa is free of cost.
Support for Vulnerable Immigrants
The Home Office is providing approximately GBP 4 million in grant funding to support vulnerable immigrants, including Indian students, who may face challenges accessing eVisas. Organizations such as Migrant Help, Citizens Advice Scotland, the Welsh Refugee Council and Advice NI will receive funding to provide immediate and free support.
Deadlines and Exceptions
Students with BRPs expiring on December 31, 2024, should create a UKVI account and access their eVisa immediately. Those staying in the UK for less than six months, diplomats, and individuals exempt from immigration control are not required to switch to an eVisa.
