Information on eVisas and why you need one.
UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) are developing a digital immigration system. This means we are replacing physical documents with an online record of your immigration status. This is known as an eVisa.
The documents being replaced are:
- biometric residence permits (BRP)
- biometric residence cards (BRC)
- passport endorsements, such as indefinite leave to enter wet ink stamps
- vignette stickers in passports, such as entry clearance or visa vignettes
Since 2018, millions of customers have received an eVisa online, for example through the EU Settlement Scheme.
What is an eVisa?
An eVisa is an online record of your immigration status and the conditions of your permission to enter or stay in the UK. You need to register for a UKVI account to view and share relevant information about your status securely with third parties, such as employers or landlords.
Updating your physical document to an eVisa does not affect your immigration status or the conditions of your permission to enter or stay in the UK.
In the future you’ll be able to use an eVisa to travel to the UK – you will not need to carry a physical document, except for your current passport, which must be registered to your UKVI account. Until then you will need to continue to carry your physical document if you have one.
The benefits of eVisas include:
- they are secure and cannot be lost, stolen or tampered with, unlike a physical document
- you will not need to wait for, or collect, a physical document after your application is decided – you might still need to provide biometric information in person, and we will tell you if you need to do this
- it will be quicker and easier to prove your status at the UK border
Why do I need a UKVI account?
You need to register for a UKVI account to access the view and prove service and see your eVisa, as well as share information about your immigration status and conditions, such as your right to work or rent in the UK. You can also update personal details through your UKVI account, such as your contact details or your current passport details. You do not have to pay to register for a UKVI account.
You must keep your passport details up to date in your UKVI account and tell us about any changes, so that your immigration status can be easily identified at the UK border. If you’ve told us you have a new passport and you’re still waiting for confirmation that your UKVI account has been updated, you should also carry your old document with you, if possible, to avoid unnecessary delays at the border.
