UK to Implement E-Visa System Starting January 2025

UK to Implement E-Visa System Starting January 2025: Key Changes for Visa Holders and Travelers

From January 1, 2025, the United Kingdom will transition fully to an Electronic Visa (E-Visa) system, eliminating the need for physical visa documentation. This new policy, as announced by the British High Commission and relayed by Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, will significantly impact all travelers and residents who previously relied on physical visa stamps and biometric residence documents for UK entry and residency verification.

The announcement was made in an advisory dated November 4, 2024, signed by Victor N. A. Adamah, the Acting Director of the Ministry’s Information and Public Affairs Bureau. The advisory notes that after December 31, 2024, the UK will no longer accept traditional physical documentation, including passport visa stamps, Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs), and Biometric Residence Cards (BRCs), for verifying immigration status. All travelers, including those planning stays of over six months, must now apply for E-Visas.

This shift to E-Visas is particularly crucial for individuals holding valid BRPs with permissions to reside, work, or study in the UK, as these documents will expire on December 31, 2024. Travelers, especially those planning to leave the UK for the holiday season, are urged to secure E-Visa approval before the end of 2024 to facilitate a seamless re-entry when the new policy takes effect.

The Ministry advises all affected individuals to take timely steps to comply with the new E-Visa requirements. Those needing further assistance or details on the application process can refer to resources provided on the British High Commission’s website or contact UK immigration authorities directly. By proactively obtaining their E-Visa, travelers can avoid disruptions and ensure compliance with the updated UK immigration rules starting in 2025.