By Hannah Dadzie
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration has announced a significant update on UK visa and immigration requirements, as relayed by the British High Commission. In a statement, the Ministry said effective January 1, 2025, the United Kingdom will shift from issuing physical visas and permits to a fully digital Electronic Visa (E-Visa) system.
It said with this change, traditional physical visa documentation, including physical visas in passports, Biometric Residence Permits (BRP), and Biometric Residence Cards (BRC), will be phased out and deemed invalid after December 31, 2024. These documents currently serve as proof of immigration status for individuals residing in the UK for extended periods.
The Ministry advised that all individuals planning to stay in the UK for more than six months from January 1, 2025, should apply for an E-Visa. Holders of valid BRPs, including those with authorization to live, work, or study in the UK, must note that their BRP cards will expire by the end of 2024.
This transition to E-Visas marks a shift toward digital documentation, aiming to streamline immigration processes and enhance security for international travelers and residents in the UK.
Statement Below: