In recent years, the UK government has implemented a significant digital shift in the immigration process, moving from physical documents to online immigration records. This transition is a key part of the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) digital immigration system, and it primarily involves the introduction of the eVisa. As part of these changes, the Home Office has made immigration status information accessible via an online service called ‘view and prove your immigration status’ on gov.uk.

This article provides essential information on how the eVisa system works, recent updates, and the steps you need to take to manage your immigration status online.

1. What is an eVisa?

An eVisa is a digital record that replaces the traditional physical immigration documents, such as the Biometric Residence Permit (BRP). This initiative aims to modernize and simplify the immigration process, offering a more secure and efficient way of managing immigration status.

As part of the government’s digitalization efforts, individuals can now access their immigration status through the ‘view and prove your immigration status’ service. The Home Office has announced plans to extend access to this service for all individuals by the end of 2024.

2. Key Updates to the eVisa System (August 2024)

The UKVI eVisa guidance was first introduced on October 30, 2023, and has undergone several updates since. The most recent update, issued on August 6, 2024, includes a crucial change for holders of a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) that expires on December 31, 2024. These individuals are now required to create a UKVI account to access their eVisa before their BRP expires.

If you’ve lost your BRP, you can use a travel document or visa application reference number to create your UKVI account. The guidance clarifies that a replacement BRP should only be requested if the original document is lost or stolen, and no alternative identity document is available.

3. What to Do If You Don’t Have a BRP

If you hold another physical immigration document, such as a Biometric Residence Card (BRC) or visa, you will still need to apply for a No Time Limit (NTL) application. Once you receive your BRP, you can create your UKVI account and access your eVisa.

4. Special Cases: EU Settlement Scheme and Windrush Scheme

If you have a Biometric Residence Card (BRC) under the EU Settlement Scheme, you may already have an eVisa and don’t need to take further action. However, if your BRC was issued before the UK left the EU and you haven’t been granted immigration status, your BRC is no longer valid.

For individuals eligible under the Windrush Scheme, you should check if you qualify to apply for evidence of your status. If you or your parent were settled in the UK before January 1973, or arrived before 1988, you may be eligible to apply.

5. Applying for Permission to Stay

If you need to apply for permission to stay in the UK, follow the usual immigration application process. This may include applying for a visa, student permit, or work permit, depending on your status.

6. Can I Travel With My eVisa?

Until the end of 2024, individuals with an eVisa will still need to carry their physical document (e.g., BRP) when traveling. After 2024, travelers may be able to rely solely on their digital status.

7. The Future of eVisas

The UK government is actively working to increase awareness of the eVisa system. A comprehensive communication campaign, including emails, videos, and fact sheets, has been planned to assist individuals in transitioning to the digital immigration system. However, there are ongoing concerns about the digital divide, particularly for those with limited access to technology, poor English language skills, or inadequate computer literacy.

Despite these challenges, eVisas offer a range of benefits, including greater efficiency, security, and convenience, reducing the chances of errors that can occur with physical documents.

8. FAQs About the UK eVisa System

Q1: Do I need to take action if I hold a BRP?
If your BRP expires after December 31, 2024, you should create a UKVI account and access your eVisa as soon as possible.

Q2: What if I don’t have a BRP?
If you hold another form of physical immigration status documentation, you must apply for a No Time Limit (NTL) application to receive your BRP before you can access your eVisa.

Q3: How can I prove my immigration status?
Once your eVisa is available, you can access it through the UKVI online service. If it’s not immediately available, UKVI will contact you by email with instructions.

Q4: Can I still travel with my physical document?
Yes, you will need to carry your physical immigration document until the end of 2024.

Q5: What if my BRP is lost or stolen?
If you’ve lost your BRP, you can use your passport or visa application reference number to create your UKVI account. If you have no other identity document, you may apply for a replacement BRP.

9. Resources & Helpful Links

• What is an eVisa? – UKVI Video:
• How to Travel with Your eVisa – UKVI Video:
• UKVI – eVisa Guidance:
• UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) – View and Prove Your Immigration Status:
• UKVI – Biometric Residence Permits:
• UKVI – Contact UK Visas and Immigration:

10. Glossary of Terms

• eVisa: A digital record of an individual’s immigration status, replacing physical documents like the Biometric Residence Permit (BRP).
• Biometric Residence Permit (BRP): A physical document issued to foreign nationals living in the UK.
• Biometric Residence Card (BRC): A card issued to family members of EEA nationals under the EU Settlement Scheme.
• No Time Limit (NTL): A type of immigration application to settle in the UK without a time limit on the stay.
• UKVI: UK Visas and Immigration, a department within the Home Office responsible for immigration and visa applications.

For expert advice and assistance regarding any aspect of UK immigration law, including eVisas, you can contact our immigration barristers on 01912738282 or complete our enquiry form.

Stay informed about all updates related to the UK eVisa system and ensure your immigration status is always current!