Changes to immigration status - what is an eVisa?
An eVisa is a new digital way to prove your immigration status that will replace physical documents.
What is an eVisa?
An eVisa is an online record of your immigration status. It will replace existing documents that act as proof of your status, including:
- Biometric Residence Cards
- Biometric Residence Permits
- endorsements in your passports, such as stamps
- stickers in your passport, such as entry clearance.
From March 2025 you will need an eVisa to prove your immigration status. BRP and BRC cards will no longer be accepted.
If you have an older document, such as a stamp or sticker in your passport, the Government will still accept these as proof of immigration status but you should consider making an eVisa application.
How do I get an eVisa?
To get an eVisa you first need to have a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) online account. UKVI is a division of the Home Office responsible for the UK's visa system. You might already have an account, depending on whether you have a biometric residence permit (BRP) or not.
If you already have a biometric residence permit
If you already have a BRP, you can create a UKVI account and you can apply directly to the eVisa scheme online. You should try need to do this even if your current visa lasts beyond the introduction of the eVisa system on 1 January 2025.
If you haven’t created a UKVI account and your Biometric Residence Permit has expired, you will still be able to create a UKVI account and apply for an eVisa in early 2025, using your expired Biometric Residence Permit.
You can create a UKVI account here.
If you have a physical immigration document/legacy visa
If you have a physical immigration document showing indefinite leave to remain, such as a stamp or sticker in your passport, you can either continue to use it until it expires, including for travel to the UK or proving your right to rent, or you can choose to apply for an eVisa by making a ‘NoTime Limit’ application.
If you would like to transfer it to an eVisa, you need to create a UKVI account and make a ‘No Time Limit’ application.
If you're applying for a visa or indefinite leave to remain
If your application to remain in the UK is successful, either through a visa or indefinite leave to remain, you will be issued an eVisa.
If you have pre-settled or settled status
If you already have pre-settled or settled status through the EU Settled Status (EUSS) scheme, you will be given an eVisa, which you will need to apply.
What can I do with my eVisa?
Your eVisa will be linked to your digital UKVI account. You will need to keep certain details up to date – such as passport and ID card details. You will still need to carry your passport with you when you travel.
Once you have your UKVI account, you'll be able to generate and share codes that help prove your status. You might want to share this code with employers or landlords and it gives them access to your immigration status for a certain period of time. You can generate new codes whenver you need them.
Getting help with your online application
The Government provides help to fill in online eVisa applications if you:
- Don’t feel confident using a computer or device
- Don’t have access to the internet
- Don’t have access to a device like a computer or smartphone
This support can be over the phone or face to face.
More information can be found here.
We're here to help
We offer support through our free advice line on 0800 678 1602. Lines are open 8am-7pm, 365 days a year. We also have specialist advisers at over 120 local Age UKs.