The UK government is pressing forward with its digital visa scheme, known as eVisas, to replace biometric residence permits (BRPs) for non-EU migrants. However, campaigners warn the Home Office is proceeding without completing crucial equality and data protection impact assessments, raising concerns about the scheme’s accessibility and security.
The eVisa program, launched in April 2023, allows non-EU residents to prove their immigration status digitally. However, critics argue that the transition could disproportionately affect older residents, those with limited digital skills, or individuals lacking reliable internet access. The government has postponed the scheme’s deadline from the end of 2024 to March 2025 due to technical glitches and slow adoption, leaving nearly a quarter of the four million eligible residents yet to switch to eVisas.
Campaigners Raise Accessibility and Security Concerns
The Open Rights Group warns that many eVisa users are vulnerable to cybercrimes such as phishing and hacking due to language barriers and low digital literacy. A report published by the group in September called for the Home Office to release a data protection impact assessment (DPIA) to address these risks.
Sara Alsherif, migrant digital justice program manager at the Open Rights Group, criticized the Home Office for delays in publishing assessments. “It is unacceptable for the Home Office to rely on outdated assessments, especially given the significant vulnerabilities of the target group,” she said.
Similarly, Josephine Whitaker-Yilmaz of migrant rights charity Praxis raised concerns about the lack of specific impact assessments for non-EU migrants. “The government’s approach demonstrates a disregard for people of color and other protected groups. This poorly managed rollout is causing unnecessary stress and uncertainty for countless individuals,” she said.
Delays in Publishing Critical Impact Assessments
The Home Office acknowledged that updated equality and data protection assessments are pending, stating they are currently using documents from earlier schemes, including the EU Settlement Scheme. However, critics argue these assessments are insufficient, particularly for the diverse population of non-EU migrants who will be affected.
Consequences of Missing the eVisa Deadline
BRPs will no longer be valid as proof of immigration status after March 2025. Non-EU residents without an eVisa may face challenges when re-entering the UK, despite alternative documents such as passport ink stamps and visa vignettes remaining valid. Although the eVisa changes only affect the method of proof, campaigners worry the lack of preparation could leave many residents unable to access their rights.
The Home Office stated: “We are committed to ensuring the eVisa rollout remains fair and accessible. Existing equality impact assessments are being reviewed and updated as needed to support this transition.”
