Use expired ID to get to UK, says minister in charge of flawed eVisas

Passengers will be allowed to use expired identity documents to travel to the UK because of flaws in the eVisa system, a minister has told the Guardian. Seema Malhotra, the migration and citizenship minister, said the government had postponed a planned full shift to the new digital immigration system amid “real fear” of another Windrush-style scandal among minority communities. It follows complaints from eVisa applicants who have failed to gain access to the new digital immigration system so they can demonstrate they have a right to return to their homes in the UK. Most physical documentation proving the right to remain in the UK, such as biometric residence permits, will no longer be valid as proof of residency from 31 December. It is understood that hundreds of UK residents have struggled to access the system from abroad and so cannot return to their homes, Home Office insiders said. Migrant workers have complained that without an eVisa, they could not access employment or housing. Malhotra said: “I have heard a range of concerns, including that the move to eVisas might negatively impact the vulnerable and elderly, leaving them unable to demonstrate their rights. I know that international travel is also a particular point of concern ahead of the festive period. I have therefore brought in changes to reflect these concerns … this includes working with airlines to allow biometric residence permits or EU settlement scheme (EUSS) biometric residence cards that expire on or after 31 December to be accepted as valid evidence of permission to travel until 31 March 2025.”<br/>