In what is surely a classic of the genre of the “Updates” section of Home Office web pages being entirely misleading, yesterday the Home Office changed its eVisa page to say that everyone with a biometrics residence permit can now apply for an eVisa. This change is described as “Updated wording to include details for out of country applicants.”

The old page said this:

If you have a biometric residence permit (BRP) that expires on 31 December 2024, we will tell you how to create a UKVI account and access your eVisa before the expiry date of your BRP. 

If you have already been contacted to create an account, either by email or in a decision letter, you can now follow the instructions we sent you to create a UKVI account. 

If you have not yet been contacted about creating an account, you’ll be able to create your account and access your eVisa later in 2024. Sign up for updates on this page to keep up to date on when you’ll be able to access your eVisa. 

The new page says this:

If you have a biometric residence permit (BRP) that expires on 31 December 2024, you can now create a UKVI account and access your eVisa. You should do this before the expiry date of your BRP. 

You can use your travel document, such as a passport, or visa application reference number to create your UKVI account if you have lost your BRP card.

You should only request a replacement BRP if it has been lost or stolen and you have no other form of identity document to create a UKVI account.

If you cannot see your eVisa details as soon as you create your UKVI account, there is nothing you need to do. We will contact you directly by email once your eVisa is available to view. You can use your BRP to prove your immigration status until your eVisa details are available.

They have also added sections on making late applications to the EU Settlement Scheme and Windrush applications, as well as this video on travelling with an eVisa.