Tougher UK Immigration Rules Introduced: Biometric Compliance Now Critical for Foreign Nationals

As of 24 March 2025, the UK government has brought into force a series of important amendments under the Immigration (Biometric Information etc.) (Amendment) Regulations 2025. These revisions significantly enhance the country’s ability to manage immigration by prioritising biometric identification and digital verification systems for foreign nationals. The latest changes lay the groundwork for a fully digitised immigration infrastructure, with far-reaching consequences for non-compliant individuals.

Expanded Use of Biometric Data at UK Entry Points

The latest rules grant UK border officials broader authority to gather biometric identifiers—specifically fingerprints and facial images - from nearly all individuals crossing into the UK. The only groups exempt from this requirement are British and Irish nationals. Once collected, this biometric data may be stored for up to 15 years by the relevant authorities.

Failure to provide biometric information when requested can have serious consequences, including the denial of immigration permission or the revocation of any existing visa status.

Evisa Account Requirement Extended—but Still Enforced

A core element of the new legislation is the obligatory creation of a digital Evisa account for foreign nationals living in or entering the UK. The timeline for registering has been extended to 18 months after the expiration of an individual’s Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) - a notable increase from the previous three-month window.

Nonetheless, ignoring this requirement is not without risk. Non-compliance can result in penalties, such as:

• Revocation or variation of current immigration leave,
• Rejection of future immigration applications,
• Refusal to issue a Biometric Immigration Document (BID),
• The imposition of civil fines.

Timely Updates to Facial Photographs Now Mandatory

Another key change is the requirement to regularly update digital facial images. Individuals aged 16 and over must refresh their photo every 10 years until they reach the age of 70. For minors under 16, image updates are required every five years. These updates are critical to maintaining accurate biometric records, and failure to meet the schedule can lead to sanctions, including immigration status cancellation or refusal of future applications.

Consequences of Non-Compliance with Biometric Laws

The Home Office has taken a clear stance: deliberate failure to comply with biometric obligations will trigger punitive measures. These may include:

• Rejection of new visa or immigration applications,
• Withdrawal or amendment of current immigration permissions,
• Denial of a BID,
• Financial penalties in the form of civil notices.

The overarching goal is to ensure that every foreign national's biometric record is up-to-date and accurately maintained, allowing for more effective immigration monitoring and security at borders.

Special Provisions for Elderly Individuals

In a more lenient approach for older migrants, the government has stated that those aged 70 or above are not required to create an Evisa account, though they are encouraged to do so. Additionally, expired BRPs held by individuals in this age group will not result in penalties, reflecting a compassionate policy towards older residents.

From Vignettes to UKVI Accounts: The Transition Continues

While physical vignettes are still being issued to visa applicants overseas, this process is expected to be phased out by mid-2025. Moving forward, all prospective entrants will be expected to register for a UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration) account as part of their application process. This step aligns with the UK’s long-term objective of establishing a paperless and more secure digital immigration system.

What Foreign Nationals Need to Know

The updated rules clearly demonstrate the UK’s ongoing commitment to tightening its immigration procedures through digital and biometric means. Anyone intending to visit, work, or settle in the UK must now ensure full compliance with these requirements - or risk losing their immigration status entirely.

Although the deadline for registering an Evisa account has been extended, it is advisable not to delay. Individuals should familiarise themselves with the updated biometric obligations and ensure their records are current. As the UK edges closer to a fully digital immigration model, preparation and awareness are vital.