It’s important to understand that this date signifies the expiration of the BRP card itself, not the holder’s permission to live and work in the UK.
The reason for the uniform expiration date is the Home Office’s transition to a digital immigration system. By the end of 2024, the aim is to replace physical BRPs with electronic visas (eVisas), which will be accessible online.
An eVisa serves as an online record of a non-British/Irish citizen’s immigration status and conditions of their stay in the UK. This digital shift is already in progress, with many individuals under the EU Settlement Scheme already using eVisas.
Actions Required for Affected Employees
Before the 31 December 2024 deadline, individuals with expiring BRPs need to set up a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account to access their eVisa. Transitioning from a BRP to an eVisa will not affect their immigration status or the terms of their stay and employment in the UK, and this update is free of charge.
The Home Office has been proactive in informing BRP holders via email about the necessary steps. However, if any employee needs further assistance, this guide can provide additional clarity.
Employees with BRPs expiring before the end of 2024 should follow the standard procedure to extend their stay in the UK, with their employer’s support if they hold a sponsored work visa.
Guidance for Employers
Employers must ensure they conduct compliant right to work checks and maintain accurate records of their employees’ immigration status. It is crucial to keep a record of the expiry date of each employee’s immigration permission and regularly audit these records for accuracy and completeness.
For employees who started their current employment on or after 6 April 2022, an online right to work check is mandatory. This check, which uses a share code obtained by the employee, confirms the actual expiry date of their immigration permission. No further action is required for these cases, other than updating the records and performing follow-up checks as needed.
If an employer’s records only show a 31 December 2024 expiry date or lack information entirely, an immediate online right to work check should be conducted. This will confirm the true expiry date of the employee’s immigration permission, allowing for accurate record-keeping and timely follow-up checks.
Failing to maintain accurate records can result in severe penalties, with fines reaching up to £60,000 per employee for allowing work beyond their permitted stay.