Why you need an evisa

The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) department is transitioning to a fully digital immigration system by replacing physical documents with eVisas.

This move aims to enhance security, prevent loss or tampering, and streamline the process for proving immigration status.

What is an eVisa?

An eVisa is an online record of a person’s immigration status and their conditions for staying in the UK. To access an eVisa, individuals must create a UKVI account, which allows them to view their status and share it when necessary, such as with employers or landlords.

The transition will affect holders of the following documents- Biometric residence permits (BRP), Biometric residence cards (BRC), Passport endorsements (e.g., indefinite leave to enter stamps), Visa vignette stickers in passports.

Since 2018, millions of people have already received an eVisa, especially those under the EU Settlement Scheme.

Why Switch to an eVisa?

The eVisa system offers multiple benefits, including- Increased security as it cannot be lost, stolen, or altered, Faster processing, eliminating the wait for physical documents, Easier verification at the UK border and with third parties.

How to Create a UKVI Account

To access an eVisa, individuals must:

Create a UKVI account
Confirm their identity
Link their account to their eVisa

The process is free, and a UKVI account ensures that personal details, including passport information, are up to date. Keeping this information current is crucial to avoid delays at the border.

Using an eVisa for Travel and Proof of Status

To travel, individuals must ensure their passport is linked to their UKVI account. Additionally, they should generate a share code through the ‘view and prove’ service to confirm their status, as airlines or border officials may request it.

This share code is valid for 90 days. For employment or renting a home, individuals can share their status by generating a new share code whenever needed.

Children and eVisas

Each child must have their own UKVI account. If they are under 18, a parent or guardian should manage it on their behalf.

Transition Timeline and Existing Documents

BRPs and BRCs: Holders can still use them until they expire but should transition to an eVisa before 31 December 2024.

Other physical documents: Those with indefinite leave to enter or remain via passport stamps or vignette stickers should apply for a free ‘No Time Limit’ (NTL) application to receive an eVisa.

EU Settlement Scheme: If eligible, individuals can apply for settled status and receive an eVisa automatically.

Action Required

Anyone affected should create a UKVI account and link their immigration status to avoid complications.

UKVI support videos

How to view and confirm someone's immigration status: video