e-Visas
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.
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 first to update your visa to a BRP. Once you've received your BRP, you can then apply for an eVisa.
Common troubleshooting queries
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.
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.
Yes, UKVI have advised that everyone with a BRP should continue to use it for travel purposes until the end of 2024. Even if you already have your eVisa, you should keep your BRP with you when entering the UK until it expires.
Yes, you will still need your BRP card for travel purposes until the end of 2024. Therefore, you should apply for a replacement BRP if you have lost your current card, even if you have already generated your eVisa. You can be fined up to £1,000 if you do not apply for a replacement within three months of losing your BRP card.
The only time you do not need to apply for a replacement BRP card is if both of the following apply:
1. There was less than three months remaining on your BRP card, and;
2. You have no plans to leave and re-enter the UK before the expiry of your current leave.
You must still report the loss to UKVI, and you must either leave the UK or apply to extend your stay before your current leave expires. For full details, see this gov.uk page.
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:
- Border Force – Entering the UK
- Border Force – Student Arrival 10 Top Tips
- UKCISA – Immigration on Arrival
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:
- Call: +44 (0)1225 875645
- Email: immigrationadvice@bathspa.ac.uk
- Join one of our online drop-in sessions
- Meet us in person at the Student Hub (Twiverton) on Tuesday afternoons between 1.30pm and 4.30pm during term-time. These sessions are run by the Immigration Advice Service and Immigration Compliance Team.