In the UK, the e-Visa system is starting with the abolition of biometric cards
September 19, 20242 Mins Read

International Desk: The migration policy or visa system is constantly being changed in the UK. Millions of migrants have now been urged to register for a new e-visa scheme. The new digital visa is part of a government plan to digitize the UK's border and migration system. But campaigners say the scheme could spawn a new digital windrush scam.

Changes to the visa system

It is reported that the scheme is planned to be launched by the end of this year. It will replace physical biometric systems such as residence, rent, work and benefits etc.

Open Rights Group released a new report on Wednesday expressing their concerns. They say flaws in the design, rollout and implementation of the e-Visa mean people who have the right to remain in the UK cannot prove it. Experts have urged the government to stop the scheme before it becomes effective.

The Open Rights Group released their report after the Home Office announced the launch of the eVisa system. Open Rights officials say they are providing £4m in support to various organisations, including the Home Office contractor Migrant Help. This will help people who cannot apply for an e-Visa. Many physical migration documents, such as biometric residence permits or biometric residence cards, must be replaced with e-visas proving migration rights.

There are reportedly concerns about 200,000 people in the UK who will not be able to apply for the e-Visa system. As a result, these people may become victims of another windrush scam.

Sarah Alsherif, migration digital program manager at the Open Rights Group, said the e-Visa scheme was going to be another failed government IT project. It could make life miserable for thousands of people in the UK. The e-Visa application deadline is only a few months away. We urge the new Home Secretary to take urgent action to prevent a potential digital windrush scandal next year.