How to Navigate the Immigration ID Check App
The Home Office has introduced a quick and easy way to verify identity documents on your smartphone with their “UK Immigration: ID Check App.”
The first step is to start your application on Gov.UK. If you are eligible to use the app, you will see instructions on how to download it from the Google Play Store or the App Store.
Please note that there is special published guidance if you are applying to the Ukrainian Schemes. Please check this guidance. If you’re applying to the EU Settlement Scheme, you should download a different app.
Check if your phone can handle the smartphone app
If you have an Android, it must be version 8.0 and above and have enough storage to accommodate the app. Similarly, if you have an iPhone, it must be version 7, 7 Plus (or newer), have iOS 13.2 (or newer) software installed, and have enough storage space to accommodate the app.
Link the smartphone app to your application
When you first open the app, if it’s not already linked to your application, you should log into your UKVI account. Online, you can choose to get a QR code or a connection code. Scan the QR code with your camera or input the connection code into the app to link the smartphone app to your application.
Scan your identity document
First, check that your identity document (e.g. passport, BRP card, or other document) has a biometric chip. It looks like this:
Next, use your phone’s camera to take a photo. The entire document must be visible in the photo (i.e. all corners must be visible).
You may also be asked to take a photo or video of your face. If so, make sure the background is plain and light coloured. You cannot have anything covering your face or eyes. Your head, shoulders and upper body must also be visible. If you need to, you can ask someone else to take the photo for you.
Verify your identity
Once you have a clear photo, select the “check now” button in the app. It will alert you if you have been successful in verifying your identity, or if you need to go through the process again.
Get back to your application
One you have confirmed your identity on the app, you can go back to your application (on a phone, computer or other device) and complete it.
How can we help you?
You can find more information about the Immigration ID Check app here. Our team of immigration advisors are also ready to assist you. Contact us today for more information at 020 8995 3556 or at info@descartessolicitors.co.uk.
By Tiffany Carpenter
13/10/2023