The Introduction of eVisas and its Impact on Recruitment

The transition to online immigration status will have a significant impact on international recruitment and the process of conducting right-to-work checks. By 2024, UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) will be phasing out physical immigration documents in favour of digital immigration status, known as eVisas.

The digital immigration system being developed by UKVI will replace physical documents like BRPs, BRCs, passport endorsements, and vignette stickers with an online record in the form of an eVisa. This change will streamline the immigration process and make it more efficient for employers.

Key points to note include the phased rollout of eVisas throughout 2024, with updates being provided by UKVI on when individuals need to register for a UKVI account. Some individuals may have already received communication to create an account, while others will be contacted later in the year.

Individuals who have not yet been contacted should continue using their current documents until instructed to create a UKVI account. If a BRP is set to expire in 2024, UKVI will guide how to access an eVisa before the expiry date.

For those using alternative documents as proof of permission to stay in the UK, such as passport stamps, creating a UKVI account and accessing an eVisa will not be possible until later in 2024. This shift towards eVisas marks a significant change in how immigration status is managed and will undoubtedly impact recruitment processes moving forward.

Individuals holding a Biometric Residence Card (BRC) who have not secured status under the EU Settlement Scheme, acquired a different form of immigration leave, or obtained British citizenship will find their BRC invalid, even if it seems to be within the expiration date. This is due to the UK's departure from the EU, resulting in the end of EU free movement laws.

Transitioning from a physical document to an eVisa will not impact an individual's immigration status or their permissions to enter or remain in the UK.

Soon, an eVisa will suffice for travel to the UK. Individuals will no longer need to carry a physical document, except for their current passport, which must be linked to their UKVI account.

For new applications for permission to stay in the UK, the standard application process must still be followed. Information and guidance will be provided during the application process if creating a UKVI account is necessary.

Regarding the right to work, employers must continue conducting standard right-to-work checks. Any updates to the right-to-work check standard will be communicated promptly.