E-Visa Chaos Leaves UK Refugees Facing Destitution

Refugees in the UK Face Destitution Due to E-Visa Issues

The UK government's transition to electronic visas is causing significant problems for refugees, leaving many at risk of destitution.

Refugees who have recently been granted refugee status in the UK are struggling to access their online visas and prove their digital immigration status. This is causing a cascade of problems, including difficulty opening bank accounts, accessing housing, and claiming benefits.

One Sudanese refugee, who was granted refugee status in December 2024, has been waiting for his eVisa to be set up since then. He is facing imminent eviction from his Home Office shared house and is unable to open a bank account without his eVisa. He has been to four different banks but has been rejected by all of them.

Another refugee, Ahmed, was granted refugee status in October 2024 but has been unable to access his eVisa despite repeated attempts to contact the Home Office. He is unable to log into his UK visas and immigration account or access his e-Visa using the reference number provided.

These are just two examples of the many refugees who are struggling to access their eVisas. This is causing significant hardship, with many facing homelessness and destitution.

Charities are calling on the government to take action to address this issue. They are urging the government to provide better guidance and support to refugees who are struggling to access their eVisas. They are also calling for the government to extend the deadline for refugees to access their eVisas, as many are facing eviction from their Home Office accommodation before they have been able to do so.

The Home Office has been contacted for comment.