A rushed deadline for transitioning to digital “eVisas” could jeopardize the legal rights of over 4 million non-EU migrants in Britain, potentially leading to a “Windrush style scandal.” These migrants must replace their Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) with digital eVisas by the end of 2024. BRPs currently provide proof of the right to study, access public services, and claim benefits, but they are being phased out as part of the Home Office’s digitisation program.
Data obtained through the Freedom of Information Act reveals that 4,066,145 BRPs will expire on December 31, 2024, even though the holders have legal leave to remain in the UK beyond this date. Migrants will need to switch to digital eVisas by the end of the year to maintain proof of their rights. Early attempts to contact those affected have been problematic, with the Home Office sometimes using outdated contact information, such as a lawyer’s email address.
To access their eVisa, individuals must open a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) digital account. If they miss the deadline, they can still apply for an account afterward, but may face difficulties proving their legal status in the interim. This could impact their ability to return from holidays or claim benefits.
Campaigners are urging the next government to address this deadline to avoid a crisis. Zoe Dexter from the Helen Bamber Foundation criticized the rushed digitisation plan, highlighting the risk to vulnerable groups such as refugees and survivors of trafficking and torture. She emphasized the need for better coordination among government departments to prevent significant injustices.
The Home Office acknowledged that some BRP holders already have an eVisa, but the number is likely small given the rollout began only in mid-April. Josephine Whitaker-Yilmaz of Praxis warned that millions could lose the ability to prove their rights if the transition to a digital-only visa system proceeds as planned. She drew parallels to the Windrush scandal, where individuals faced severe consequences due to Home Office errors.
In summary, the impending deadline for UK digital visas poses a significant risk of leaving millions unable to prove their legal rights, necessitating urgent action from the government to ensure a smooth transition and avoid widespread injustices.
