Home Office Extends eVisa Grace Period Until June 2025

The Home Office has announced an extension of the eVisa transition grace period, now set to end on 1 June 2025 instead of the previously scheduled 31 March 2025. This extension allows individuals with Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) or EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) Biometric Residence Cards (BRCs) that expired on or after 31 December 2024 to continue using their documents for international travel until the new deadline.

Key Changes & Implications

From 2 June 2025, expired BRPs and EUSS BRCs will no longer be accepted as proof of immigration status for travel to the UK. The Home Office has confirmed that there will be no further extensions beyond this date.

The decision follows concerns over the initial deadline of 31 March 2025, which some feared could lead to disruption for individuals still transitioning to the new digital eVisa system. The grace period extension is intended to ensure a smoother transition, reducing the risk of individuals facing difficulties at border control.

Current Progress & eVisa Adoption

To date, the Home Office reports that over 4 million people have successfully transitioned to an eVisa by creating a UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI) account. However, an estimated 600,000 individuals are yet to switch from their physical immigration documents to the digital system.

Minister for Migration and Citizenship, Seema Malhotra, noted that while most individuals have successfully migrated to eVisas, the government remains committed to supporting those who have yet to take action. The extension is part of broader efforts to ensure a seamless transition to digital immigration status.

What Individuals Need to Do

The Home Office is urging those who have not yet accessed their eVisa to do so as soon as possible. Steps include:

• Creating a UKVI account to access and manage immigration status.
• Ensuring passports or travel documents are linked to the eVisa for smooth verification when travelling.
• Generating a share code via the View and Prove service to provide evidence of immigration status to third parties, such as employers or landlords.

For individuals travelling internationally, the government advises carrying a valid travel document linked to the eVisa. Additional guidance can be found on gov.uk.

Ensuring a Smooth Transition

The Home Office continues to monitor the transition and work with stakeholders to ensure minimal disruption. Affected individuals should take immediate steps to access their eVisa before the final 1 June 2025 deadline.

For more information on immigration status and compliance, contact GSC Solicitors LLP. Our team can assist with legal guidance on UK immigration regulations and the eVisa transition process.

Conclusion

The extension of the eVisa grace period provides much-needed flexibility for individuals still transitioning to the digital system. However, with the final deadline set for 1 June 2025, those affected should ensure they take the necessary steps to update their status and avoid travel complications. The move to eVisas is part of the government’s broader strategy to create a more secure and streamlined digital immigration system for the UK.

If you need legal advice or assistance with the eVisa transition, GSC Solicitors LLP is here to help.