UK visa holders told to upgrade documents as Home Office launches border security changes

Transcript

00:00Millions of UK visa holders are being urged to upgrade their immigration documents

00:04as the Home Office launches changes to border security.

00:07The government plans to replace the Physical Biometric Residence Permit,

00:11which show proof of the right to live, work and claim benefits in Britain,

00:14with digital e-visas.

00:16It's set to be introduced at the end of the year,

00:18and the Home Office has earmarked £4m to support organisations

00:22to help vulnerable people who may struggle to obtain an e-visa without assistance.

00:26A national advertising campaign will also raise awareness of the scheme

00:30and encourage those affected to take action

00:32before many documents expire in December.

00:34But campaigners have warned that the changes could lead to a digital windrush scandal.

00:39They're urging the government to rethink the scheme

00:41before it comes into effect on 1 January 2025.

00:44There's also particular concern about 200,000 people

00:47who have legacy documents proving their immigration status,

00:50and they'll first have to apply for a biometric residence permit

00:53and then for a UK visas and immigration account.

00:56However, the Home Office insists the switch to an e-visa is simple

01:00and that it offers greater customer convenience,

01:03significant cost savings and enhanced security

01:06for the UK's border and immigration system.