Regions Encompassing Europe, the Middle East, and Africa
In Ireland, the optional online renewal process for immigration residence permissions is currently available for residents in Dublin, Kildare, Meath, Wicklow, Cork, and Limerick. However, this option will remain so until November 3, 2024. From November 4, 2024, the responsibility for renewing immigration residence permissions will move online for all counties. This shift aims to provide a more effective system with accurate updates and fair service delivery, as applications will be processed in the order they are received.
Meanwhile, in the United Kingdom, the government has announced a significant shift in their immigration system. From October 31, 2024, they will stop issuing new BRP (Biometric Residence Permit) cards as part of the ongoing digitalisation process. This move will replace physical documents with online records, known as eVisas.
The changes in the UK aren't limited to the elimination of physical cards. As of last week, the government's commercial partner for visa services in the UK has changed from Sopra Steria to TLScontact. This change is expected to cause some disruption in visa appointment availability, as it is anticipated that there will be limited availability while these changes are implemented.
Similar changes are happening abroad, as the provider for visa services in certain locations has already been changed from TLScontact to VFS Global. These changes will affect certain locations in Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia and will happen between now and January 2025.
It's important to note that information regarding Joanna Sogeke's leading role in global immigration leadership in the United Kingdom could not be found. It's possible that she is active in another context or country, or that the information is not publicly available.
Lastly, regarding the renewal of immigration residence permissions in Ireland, it's crucial to submit applications through the ISD (Immigration Service Delivery) online renewal portal of the Department of Justice. As the number of visa centers and available appointments are currently limited, it's advisable to plan ahead and apply as soon as possible.
