The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration has announced a significant update to the UK visa policy, effective January 1, 2025, impacting travelers planning extended stays in the United Kingdom.
Starting in the new year, the UK government will replace all physical visa documentation with an Electronic Visa (E-Visa) system. This change includes the discontinuation of physical visas in passports, Biometric Residence Permits (BRP), and Biometric Residence Cards (BRC), which will all become invalid after December 31, 2024, according to a statement from the British High Commission. The shift aims to improve visa processing efficiency and enhance security.
Key Updates:
1. Transition to E-Visas: From January 1, 2025, all travelers planning to stay in the UK for more than six months must obtain an E-Visa, which will serve as the sole valid document for long-term residency.
2. BRP Expiry: Holders of Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) will need to transition to E-Visas, as all BRP cards will expire on December 31, 2024, regardless of any original expiration dates.
3. Travel Advisory: The Ministry advises anyone planning to travel outside the UK during the holiday season to secure their E-Visa before December 31, 2024, to avoid re-entry issues.
This advisory was detailed in a statement signed by Victor N. A. Adamah, Acting Director of the Information and Public Affairs Bureau, on November 4.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs urges all affected individuals to prepare for the transition by consulting the British High Commission’s website or reaching out to UK immigration authorities for E-Visa application guidance.
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