The UK is developing a digital immigration system. All physical immigration documents (such as BRPs) are being replaced with an online record of your immigration status, called an eVisa.

If you'd like to know more about the introduction of eVisas, these pages have lots of useful information:

We've included the answers to some frequently asked questions below.

What does this mean for me?

How you'll be affected by the introduction of eVisas will depend on the type of immigration document you currently have:

If you hold a BRP card:

If you have a BRP card expiring on 31/12/2024 or later, you now need to get access to your eVisa. We would recommend doing this as soon as possible.

All BRP holders will need to obtain an eVisa before the end of 2024. Getting an eVisa does not affect the length or conditions of your existing visa.

If you have an eVisa:

If you already have an eVisa, there is nothing further you need to do. If you can successfully use this service to generate a share code, then you already have an eVisa.

Please make sure that you are generating a ‘View and Prove’ share code and not a right to work or right to rent share code – only accessing a ‘View and Prove’ share code guarantees that you have an eVisa

If you have a different form of immigration document:

If your current visa is not in the form of either a BRP or an eVisa (i.e. if you have a vignette, wet ink stamp, or ILR in an expired passport) then you need to make a no-time limit application before you can access your eVisa.

Once your NTL application is decided, you will receive an eVisa. You will be told how to access your eVisa in your decision email or letter.

Screenshot of video showing uk immigration documents
Home Office video explaining eVisas

Common troubleshooting queries

I already have an eVisa. Do I need to do anything?

Some people, particularly those coming from EU countries or who made their most recent visa application from within the UK, will already have an eVisa.

If you already have an eVisa, there is nothing you need to do. If you can successfully use this service to generate a share code, then you already have an eVisa.

Please make sure that you are generating a ‘View and Prove’ share code and not a right to work or right to rent share code – only accessing a ‘View and Prove’ share code guarantees that you have an eVisa.

I am struggling to access my eVisa. What should I do?

UKVI have created a video that guides you through the process of setting up your account. You can access it on this GOV.UK page. 

If you are still having difficulties after watching this video, you can contact UKVI’s eVisa assistance service.

I have both an eVisa and a BRP. Do I still need to keep my BRP card?

Yes, UKVI have advised that you should keep your most recent BRP. Even if you already have your eVisa, you should keep your BRP with you when entering the UK until the end of March 2025 (or when your visa expires, whichever is earlier).  

You may also need it for creating or accessing your UKVI account if your passport does not have a biometric chip.

 

I have lost my BRP card. Do I still need to replace it?

UKVI have now stopped producing new BRP cards, so it no longer possible to apply for a replacement.

You still need to report the loss to the Home Office.  You can be fined up to £1,000 and made to the leave the UK if you do not report the loss of your BRP card.

As it is no longer possible to apply for a replacement, you will need to prove your immigration status in a different way when required.

How can I prove my immigration status with an eVisa?

You'll usually be expected to use a share code to prove your immigration status.

There are different share codes for different purposes - we've linked to ways to apply for the most common below: 

How do I use my eVisa to enter the UK?

Your eVisa must be linked to your current passport if you wish to use it to enter the UK. Therefore, you should make sure your up-to-date passport details are held in your UKVI account before travelling.

You can update your UKVI account details on this page.

If the details in your UKVI account are accurate, then your valid passport should be all you need to enter the UK.

For general guidance on what to expect at the UK border, please use the following links:

REMEMBER:  you must continue to carry your physical immigration documents (such as BRP or vignette) when entering the UK until the end of 2024, even if you already have your eVisa.

Contact us

You can contact the Immigration Advice Service in any of the following ways: