Experts Warn eVisa Transition Risks Repeating Windrush Scandal
United kingdom, United state
The UK government is transitioning from physical biometric residence permits (BRPs) to digital eVisas, raising concerns of a repeat of the Windrush scandal. Non-EU migrants with indefinite leave to remain before 2008 must now apply for BRPs before obtaining eVisas, a process that can take up to six months and requires proof of continuous residency.
Immigration lawyers argue this is unreasonable, especially for those lacking decades-old documentation. Critics say the move disproportionately impacts senior citizens and those less tech-savvy, with no clear communication strategy for affected individuals. The Home Office urges early applications for the no-time limit (NTL) route.