The UK immigration system is undergoing a major transformation that will affect Nigerians planning to stay in the country for more than six months. The government is transitioning from physical documents like the Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) to a fully digital immigration system.
Under this new system, Nigerians who are granted permission to stay in the UK for more than six months will be required to create a UKVI online account to manage their digital immigration status. This platform will include information about their visa type, expiry date, and conditions of stay.
“We are replacing physical documents with an online record of your immigration status,” the government announced on its website.
The shift to digital records will also replace other documents, such as passport endorsements, indefinite leave to enter wet ink stamps, and vignette stickers in passports, including entry clearance or visa vignettes.
Since 2018, millions have already benefited from eVisas, which are also available through the EU Settlement Scheme. Nigerians impacted by these changes must ensure that their passport details are current in the UKVI system.
