On December 31st, 2024, eVisas will replace physical immigration documents for almost all non-UK and non-Irish citizens. This will affect a very large number of Greater Manchester residents, though we do not know how many.
While most Greater Manchester residents will be able to navigate the eVisa application process independently, those who face digital exclusion, have limited literacy or English skills, or experience other vulnerabilities may require additional support. It will be possible to apply for an eVisa after December 31st, but late applications could cause issues - especially for people with immigration documents (BRPs) that appear to expire on that date.
In aid of this, GMCA has developed a guidance and communications package to be shared with public services across GM. The attached briefing aims to:
- Outline the eVisa transition and its implications.
- Highlight your organisation’s role in supporting people with the eVisa process.
- Answer frequently asked questions and signpost further guidance and support
Getting the word out to residents
We know that many vulnerable residents will not be aware of the need to apply for an eVisa by the deadline. To help you to get the message out, we’ve attached simple posters, translated into a small number of priority languages, for you to display in public areas of your service. These posters contain a QR code that will signpost residents to further resources and guidance.
This page can also be found here: https://bit.ly/eVisa-information.
Offering support
Alongside getting the message out, getting support to people that need it is an urgent priority. It’s important to note that assisting with eVisa applications does not constitute OISC-regulated immigration advice. This means that all support services working with non-UK national residents should consider offering assistance to those they’re working with, using the resources enclosed. We know this won't always be possible - in those cases staff can signpost or refer to local or national services that can help (see Briefing).
/sites/default/files/GMCA%20eVisa%20poster.pdf
/sites/default/files/Transition%20to%20eVisas%20-%20guidance%20for%20GM%20services.pdf