New refugees will get UKVI account and eVisa within 14 days of a positive decision
In response to a question from Baroness Lister of Burtersett, the Government has outlined forthcoming changes to the 28-day move-on period for newly recognised refugees as it transitions from Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) to eVisas.
Image credit: WikipediaThe Home Office has said that the move to electronic eVisas is a key part of delivering a border and immigration system which will be 'digital by default' by 2025. Last week, the Home Office issued updated guidance saying it will stop issuing new BRP cards from 31 October 2024.
Lord Hanson of Flint, Minister of State for the Home Office, today explained how eVisas would impact newly recognised refugees and how the move-on period will be changing. He was, however, unable to provide full details about the implementation of the changes.
Lord Hanson stated:
"Currently, a newly recognised refugee gets 28 days to move on from asylum accommodation following the issue of their Biometric Residence Permit (BRP). The introduction of eVisas means that changes will need to be made to the move on process. We will provide further information on the initiation of the move on period before we stop issuing BRPs.
"When the Home Office stops issuing Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) to newly recognised refugees without a previous BRP or valid passport, we will create a UKVI account and eVisa for them within 14 days of a positive decision on their Asylum claim being served. This action will be referenced in their decision letter.
"We will inform the person that their UKVI account has been created and provide the necessary information for them to sign in. This communication will also include details on how to get support for accessing or reporting any issues with their eVisa.
"Currently, people sign in to their UKVI account using a Document Number and Date of Birth. For those without a document, we will issue a new reference number, known as a UKVI Customer Number, which can be used alongside their Date of Birth to sign in and view their eVisa.
"We acknowledge the existing challenges in delivering correspondence and BRP cards to newly recognised refugees. We are exploring the best ways to provide this information, including making increased efforts to capture contact details during the asylum process."