New pocket-sized 'bust' card includes advice on what to do if an eVisa cannot be shown
The EU citizens' rights group the3million and the charity Migrants Organise have produced a helpful new 'bust' card with key information and advice about eVisas and migrants' rights.
Image credit: WikipediaYou can download the card here in PDF format.
The card is intended to be printed out and carried so that migrants can to show it to airlines, landlords, employers, or others if there are problems proving or understanding immigration status as the UK fully transitions from physical immigration documents to electronic-only eVisas.
It provides essential details about eVisas and clarifies that an eVisa maintains the same legal rights as previous immigration documents, including the ability to enter and stay in the UK, work, rent, and access public services such as the NHS.
Importantly, it provides advice on what to do if an eVisa cannot be shown, emphasising the rights of individuals in such situations and the obligations of service providers, including the obligations of airlines to still accept Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) and Biometric Residence Cards (BRCs).
The card states:
"If I am unable to show you my eVisa or provide you with a share code, for example because there are technical difficulties:
• You are still obligated to provide services that I am entitled to and you must contact the Home Office directly to verify my status.
• Airline carriers are also obligated to allow me to board using my expired BRP or BRC until at least 31 March 2025."
There's also some advice on documents needed for when you're travelling, and several useful contact details. Anyone experiencing problems with the eVisa system is encouraged to report the issues via www.evisa-problems.org.uk.
Earlier this month, the Government announced that it would no longer proceed with the full implementation of eVisas from 1 January 2025, as originally planned, due to concerns that a cliff-edge deadline could create another Windrush-style scandal. The validity of expiring BRPs and BRCs has been extended until at least 31 March 2025, with this date subject to ongoing review.