Returning to the UK after 31 December: Important advice about eVisas

 

If you are travelling out of the UK over the upcoming Christmas and New Year holiday period, make sure you have done everything possible to set up your UKVI account and gain access to your eVisa. If you have done this, it’s still worth reading the gov.uk info about Making sure your eVisa is correct before you travel.

In a news item on 5 December 2024, we told you about a big change which will allow use of expired BRPs to enter the UK after 31 December 2024. This is because the Government is now aware that many people have not been able to properly set up their UKVI account and/or their eVisa. Most people will have BRPs which expire on 31 December 2024, even if they have immigration permission which continues after that date. So, we expect that some people will need to rely on the assurances made by the Immigration Minister that are described in that news item.

Our advice to all returning visa holders is that, when returning to the UK, you make sure that in addition to carrying your expired BRP you have as much of the following documentation with you as possible:

• Decision letters and/or decision emails that you received when being granted your current immigration permission. It would even be helpful to have with you the original proof/acknowledgement of the immigration application you originally made that led to the granting of your current immigration permission.
• Evidence of your registration and enrolment for study with your education institution (your Student sponsor).

If you have not yet left the UK, gather this information before you leave. When returning to the UK, carry this information in your hand luggage so you are ready to show it, alongside your expired BRP.

Visit our student advice page for more information on eVisas.