The UK is transitioning its border and immigration system to a digital format, which means that physical documents, such as Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) and vignette visa stickers, will be replaced by electronic visas, or eVisas. Recently issued BRPs display an expiry date of 31 December 2024. This date signifies the duration of the validity of the card itself, rather than the holder’s immigration status, which has led to some confusion.
The Home Office has begun sending out emails to certain individuals, inviting them to transition to an eVisa. However, these communications have been generic and lacked personalisation, such as including the recipient’s name or reference numbers, which has resulted in further uncertainty. As of 6 August 2024, the Home Office allows anyone with a BRP to apply for an eVisa, although not all applicants will be able to view their eVisa immediately.
To access their eVisa, individuals must first have their immigration status digitised in the Home Office’s database, a process that occurs in two stages. Consequently, some individuals may not see their eVisa immediately upon account creation.
Accessing the eVisa involves submitting a mini application to the Home Office. Upon approval, individuals can utilise the “view and prove” system to demonstrate their immigration status. The application process requires the following: a smartphone, a mobile number, an email address, and either a BRP card or a valid passport with a BRP number or visa application number.
Steps to Obtain and Access Your eVisa:
Step 1: Creating an Account
- Begin by visiting the gov.uk website to create an account with UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). Get access to your eVisa: Overview – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
- After creating the account, download the UK Immigration: ID Check app to scan your identity documents and take a new photograph. Please note that this app requires an iPhone 7 or newer, or an Android phone capable of contactless payments.
Step 2: Linking Your eVisa to Your Account
- Once your identity is confirmed, return to the gov.uk website to submit your personal details.
- You will be notified once your application is successful, at which point you will gain access to the “view and prove” system. This process may take several days.
For more information on creating a UKVI account and accessing your eVisa, please watch the following Home Office video guide: How to Create a UKVI Account and Access Your eVisa.
Please ensure that your personal details are up to date when traveling. If you possess valid physical evidence of your immigration status, it is advisable to carry it with you until it expires.
For additional guidance on traveling with your eVisa, please refer to this Home Office video: How to Travel with Your eVisa.
If you require assistance with any part of this process, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.