Computer says no [update] - border chaos delayed until April 2025

In April 2024, I predicted border chaos in January 2025 (Computer says No - my prediction of UK border chaos on Wednesday 1 January 2025) due to the decision to have all Biometric Residence Permits (a credit card style ID card) expire on or before 31 December 2024. 

Thankfully, it has been announced that expired BRP cards can still be used until the end of March 2025, even though they have an expiry date of 31 December 2024. This is very welcome news given the huge risk of government IT failures, airline misunderstandings and travel anxiety on a public holiday. That said, Tuesday 1 April 2025 might not be a good day to travel to the UK. 

Those with a BRP card are still advised to apply for an e-visa now, but can still travel to the UK with their BRP card until 31 March 2025. I would recommend carrying the BRP card for travel to the UK until at least summer 2025. 

ETA for US nationals – 8 January 2025

The UK Home Office is also rolling out the ‘Electronic Travel Authorisation’ (ETA), requiring visitors to the UK to obtain pre-arrival permission to travel for nationalities that do not currently need to apply for permission to enter the UK before they reach the UK border, for example US or EU nationals. US nationals will need this ETA for travel to the UK to visit on or after 8 January 2025. 

Once approved, this will allow travel to the UK as a visitor for the next 2 years or until the passport expiry date. An ETA is required for all visitors, including children and where people are transiting through the UK on the way to other final destinations. Failure to have the correct permission is likely to lead to a missed flight, train or boat to the UK. This is due to apply to EU nationals visiting the UK from March 2025. 

UK immigration law is constantly changing. It is important to take timely legal advice to reduce the risk of friction at the border and to ensure compliance with the UK immigration rules. If you have any immigration questions, please contact Paul McCarthy.