UK immigration system is continuing its transition towards a digital-first approach. Instead of relying solely on physical immigration documents, many people can now access an electronic record of their immigration status, known as an eVisa.
If you hold a UK visa or have settled status in the UK, understanding how to access and manage your eVisa is important. This guide explains what an eVisa is, who needs one, how to create a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account, and how to keep your digital immigration record up to date.
What is an eVisa?
An eVisa is a secure digital record of your UK immigration status. It replaces, or works alongside, certain physical immigration documents and allows you to view and prove your permission to enter or remain in the UK online.
Depending on your immigration status, your eVisa can confirm your right to:
- Live in the UK.
- Work in the UK.
- Rent accommodation.
- Access certain services where proof of immigration status is required.
- Re-enter the UK after travelling abroad.
Your eVisa can be accessed through your UKVI account.
Who Can Access an eVisa?
You can access an eVisa if you have:
- A UK visa.
- Indefinite Leave to Remain (also known as settlement).
- A digital record of exemption from immigration control, where applicable.
- A digital Certificate of Entitlement confirming your Right of Abode in the UK.
Some individuals who still hold older physical immigration documents may also choose to move to an eVisa.
For example, this may apply if you have:
- A physical immigration document confirming Indefinite Leave to Remain with no expiry date.
- A valid visa vignette (visa sticker) in your passport.
Who Does Not Need an eVisa?
Not everyone travelling to or entering the UK requires an eVisa.
You do not need one if you:
- Are travelling to the UK using an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).
- Hold permission to stay in the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man or Gibraltar.
Why You Need a UKVI Account
Your eVisa is accessed through a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account.
Without a UKVI account, you will not be able to view or manage your digital immigration status.
If your partner or children have their own immigration permission as your dependants, they must each have their own UKVI account to access their individual eVisas.
You May Already Have a UKVI Account
Many people already have a UKVI account without realising it.
You are likely to have one if you have previously:
- Used the UK Immigration: ID Check app when applying for a visa.
- Created a UKVI account during a visa application.
- Replaced a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) or Biometric Residence Card (BRC) with an eVisa.
- Applied under the EU Settlement Scheme.
If you think you may already have a UKVI account, you should try signing in before creating a new one. Creating multiple accounts can cause unnecessary complications.
How to Create a UKVI Account
If you do not already have a UKVI account, you will need:
- A personal email address.
- A mobile phone number that you can use whenever you sign in.
You will also need one of the following forms of identification, where available:
- A valid passport together with your visa application reference number, such as a Global Web Form (GWF) number or Unique Application Number (UAN).
- A valid passport together with your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) number.
- An expired BRP, provided it is still within the permitted period for use when creating your account.
Once your account has been created, you will need to confirm your identity before linking your account to your eVisa.
Confirming Your Identity
Most applicants will verify their identity using a smartphone and the official identity verification app.
However, alternative arrangements are available if you:
- Do not have a valid passport.
- Do not have an eligible expired BRP.
- Cannot access a smartphone.
- Are unable to use the identity verification app.
Linking Your eVisa to Your UKVI Account
Creating a UKVI account alone does not automatically give you access to your digital immigration status.
Your eVisa must be linked to your UKVI account before you can view it or use it to prove your immigration status.
If this was not completed during the account creation process, you can link your eVisa afterwards through your UKVI account.
Managing Your eVisa
Once your account is active, you can securely access your digital immigration record whenever required.
Your UKVI account allows you to:
- View your immigration status.
- Obtain a share code to prove your right to work, rent or access other services.
- Update your personal details.
- Report any errors relating to your immigration status.
- Manage information linked to your eVisa.
Keeping your details accurate is important, particularly if you renew your passport, change your contact details or update other personal information.
Helping Someone Else
Family members, carers or legal representatives can assist another person with creating and managing a UKVI account where necessary.
For example, assistance may be appropriate where someone:
- Cannot use the internet independently.
- Requires support because of age or disability.
- Is a child.
- Has someone legally acting on their behalf, such as an attorney.
Where another person manages the account initially, it is important that the account details are updated when the individual becomes able to manage it themselves. For example, once a child reaches adulthood, their own contact details should be added so they can access their account independently.
Getting Help
If you experience difficulties accessing your eVisa or UKVI account, the Home Office provides online support, including webchat services and guidance videos, to help resolve common issues.
Seeking assistance promptly can help avoid delays when you need to prove your immigration status or travel.
Final Thoughts
The UK’s move towards digital immigration status means that having access to your UKVI account is now an essential part of managing your immigration permission.
Whether you hold a visa, have settled status or another form of digital immigration record, ensuring your UKVI account is correctly set up and linked to your eVisa will make it easier to prove your status, access services and travel with confidence.
If you are unsure about your immigration status, need assistance accessing your eVisa or require advice regarding your UK immigration matters, obtaining professional legal guidance can help ensure that your records are accurate and your status remains properly maintained.
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With over 20 years of experience and a commitment to excellence, Morgan Smith Immigration is your trusted partner for all your immigration needs. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you with UK visa applications. For enquiries or assistance, call us at 0203 959 3335 or email [email protected].
