World Immigration News

Use expired ID to get to UK, says minister in charge of flawed eVisas

Release Date: 2024-12-03
Media: Guardian
Summary: The UK government has announced that passengers will be allowed to use expired identity documents to travel to the UK due to issues with the eVisa system. Migration and Citizenship Minister Seema Malhotra confirmed that the planned full transition to the new digital immigration system has been delayed, citing concerns about a potential repeat of the Windrush scandal affecting minority communities.

Many eVisa applicants have struggled to access the system, preventing them from demonstrating their right to return to the UK. The government will allow expired biometric residence permits (BRPs) and EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) cards to be accepted as valid proof of permission to travel until March 31, 2025.

The government had planned to phase out physical documents by January 1, 2025, but the issues with the eVisa system have caused significant disruption, especially for migrant workers who need these documents for employment and housing. Malhotra criticized the timing of the rollout on January 1, a public holiday, and emphasized the need for better communication with airlines to prevent travel chaos.
Tags: United Kingdom

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