The Introduction of eVisas in UK Immigration

What is an eVisa? 

An eVisa converts a persons immigration status into a digital format. This eliminates the need for physical documents to prove your right to stay in the UK. All necessary information will be available through an online account with UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). The visa holder will be able to obtain a share code from your account to show:

• an employer for the purposes of right to work  
• a landlord for the purposes of right to rent 
• a bank to open an account 
• to share where required to receive NHS treatment 

In each of the cases above the share code will be used with person's date of birth to check online that the person has leave to remain in the UK and is entitled to work, rent, open an account and receive treatment.   

Airlines will be able to access the UKVI portal by using the biodata information on the passport to check a person's UK immigration status before allowing them to board the flight. UK border control will use the same information also when the visa holder is entering the UK.    

For now the eVisa is only applicable to those that have a visa to stay in the UK and not to those visiting.    

Why the Transition to eVisas?

The shift to digital eVisas brings enhanced security and convenience, safeguarding personal information from loss, theft, or damage, and making it instantly accessible from anywhere at any time. The government has piloted the success of the eVisa scheme with EU Settlement visa holders before introducing this to all visa categories that allow a person to live in the UK. 

Benefits of eVisas:

• Security: Your immigration record is securely stored and always accessible online

• Convenience: Eliminate the wait associated with physical documentation

• Ease of Verification: Quickly and easily prove your immigration status in the UK through obtaining a share code

Getting Started with Your eVisa

From April 2024 UKVI has started emailing Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) holders whose  BRP expires in December 2024  with instructions on how to create an account. These emails are being sent out in phases and at a later date, to be confirmed, the process will be opened to all BRP holders to open their account online.  You should stay up to date with developments here. 

If you have another physical document to prove your your indefinite leave to remain status, for example a stamp on a passport or a Home Office letter then you will need to make a no time limit (NTL) application. If your application is successful you will receive a BRP and then you will be able to create your eVisa account.       

Need Assistance?

We recognise that adapting to digital changes can be challenging. Whether you need support setting up or updating your UKVI account, we are here to help. Assistance is also available for those without internet access or the necessary digital tools.