On 22nd October, SkillsHouse organised a free eVisa training session at Britannia House for frontline staff, volunteers, and community organisations in collaboration with Bradford City of Sanctuary and the Home Office Future Border and Immigration System Team.

EVisas are a digital record of a person’s immigration status, identity, and permitted conditions such as the right to work or study. The UK moved to a digital system replacing major physical documents during 2025, but as you can imagine there are many people having problems with the transition. Through conversations with the VCS Migration Network, we realised that we needed extra training on eVisas in Bradford, and fortunately one of our members had the knowledge and connections to make it happen.

Using a train-the-trainer approach, the session equipped participants with the knowledge and confidence to support people with eVisa registrations, helping to overcome English language and digital barriers. As a result, we now have a network of trained local organisations who can support residents with completing their eVisa applications online and accessing the information they need.

The event brought together 24 participants from voluntary and community organisations, NHS services, libraries, and local communities. It also provided an opportunity to strengthen referral pathways, build partnerships and share information about wider support available across the district. Support was also provided with eVisa registrations on the day.

Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with attendees valuing the opportunity to engage directly with Home Office representatives and increase their understanding of the eVisa process.

• “Today’s eVisa training was helpful, and I can now support more people in my community.”
  Ummul Qura Islamic Centre

• “Meeting the Home Office representative was a breath of fresh air!”
  Voices for Change

• “It was an excellent event with community leads here who can disseminate information throughout their communities. Lots of questions, valid questions and lots of interaction which we love. Just the perfect audience.” Home Office FBIS representative

• “It has helped me build links with the Home Office for Leeds residents also. It has changed my perception of who the Home Office really are in a positive way.” Community Ambition (organisation)

• “Today was really informative and well organised. I learnt about eVisas and had the opportunity to speak with different organisations.”
  Bradford African Community service user

This collaborative initiative has helped build local capacity and establish a network of trusted organisations that can continue supporting residents with eVisa registrations within their communities. Huge thanks to Skills House for all their work in pulling this event together.