Yvette Cooper has promised that the UK will proceed with introducing eVisas despite identifying “some problems" during the initial implementation.
The long-awaited system, which was set to replace physical biometric residence permits (BRP) from the end of 2024, has already faced delays and pushback from campaigners.
Human rights campaigners highlighted that people with the right to live and work in the UK could be left in an uncertain position if they’re unable to access their digital visas due to technical issues.
It’s been warned that the system “could lead to another Windrush”, prompting the Home Office to return to the drawing board and postpone the full rollout.
Despite delays, the Home Secretary maintained that the new electronic visa system would be a positive development, eventually speeding up processes and enhancing security checks.
Speaking to Sky News, Ms Cooper said: “Electronic visas make it much speedier and much easier to check. They were started under the previous government. We’re rolling them forward, but we have identified some problems in the implementation.
“We are still going ahead; they are really important... however, we have to make sure the detail is right, and that’s why we’re making some changes to the implementation so that happens in a smooth way.”
For the time being, airlines are being instructed to accept expired UK residency permits until the end of March.
What are eVisas?
eVisas are an electronic record identifying a person’s immigration status in the UK.
According to the Home Office, the documents can be accessed through a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account, which allows people to view and prove their immigration status digitally.
It also helps people prove their immigration status to landlords, employers and government departments.
Since October, people granted a residence permit have started to receive eVisas instead of biometric cards.
The website states: “We have been transitioning from physical immigration documents to eVisas for the past six years, and they are tried and tested, with millions of people now successfully using eVisas.
“Since 31 October this year, successful visa applicants who would have received a biometric residence permit (BRP) in the past now get an eVisa.”
The point of an eVisa is to try and speed up processes, enhance security and remove the need for a physical visa.
What’s next for eVisas?
Complaints have been made by applicants who could not access the digital system, prompting concern that eVisas may lead to technical issues.
The Labour Party is keen to press ahead with implementation but will first fix the ‘problems’ they’ve identified.
As a workaround, people with BRPs can still use their documents until at least the end of March 2025.
Those who want to register for an eVisa can do so by signing into their UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account.
