eVisa changes
Obtaining an eVisa
UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) is developing a digital immigration system, replacing physical documents with an online record of immigration status - an eVisa.
From 1 January 2025 you will need an eVisa to prove your immigration status, instead of a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP). Even if your current visa lasts beyond 1 January 2025, you will still need to apply for an eVisa.
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.
Once your eVisa is issued, you should keep your physical documents. These may be useful for logging into your UKVI account or reusing your biometric information for a future visa application.
Creating your UKVI account
Have a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)
To get your eVisa, you will need a UKVI online account. You may have one already, so it is advisable to check.
If you do not have a UKVI account, you can create your account as part of the online eVisa application process. You will need your BRP number or application number. This would have been created during your visa application process and sent to you via post or email.
Children
Children, including unaccompanied asylum-seeking children (UASC), must also have their own UKVI account to access their eVisa. Parents, guardians, or social workers can create and manage the UKVI account for their children until they turn 18. Parents can use their own email address to create a UKVI account for their children, and then transfer ownership of the account when the child turns 18.
Do not have a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)
The UK government stopped producing BRPs from 1 November 2024.
From 1 November, if you are granted refugee status the Home Office will create a UKVI account for you and provide instructions on how to access it. Your account will be provided within 14 days of a positive decision on your asylum claim.
Every person in your household should be given a UKVI Customer Number from the Home Office. You will be able to log in to your UKVI account, using this number and your date of birth.
Humanitarian Protection eVisa issue
If your eVisa is incorrectly labelled as Humanitarian Protection, don’t worry, the Home Office is correcting this.
Application Registration Card (ARC)
As an asylum seeker, you will still get an ARC card, but you will only be eligible for an eVisa once you are granted refugee status.
Managing eVisas or your UKVI account
- issues with your eVisa or accessing or recovering your UKVI account contact UKVI online
- update your UKVI account details, such as your name, nationality, or passport
- report an error: If the Home Office used incorrect information when creating your account, report this online. The Home Office will aim to resolve any issues within five days
- those unable to manage their account, due to age, disability, etc, an authorised proxy can manage it for you
- For more information, visit the Online immigration status (eVisas) (www.gov.uk)
Further information
- Assisted Digital Service is also available for IT-related support
- RAMFEL eVisa Support provides help to those digitally excluded or who have language, physical or mental barriers who need help applying for an eVisa. Self-help guides are available in English, Arabic, Dari, Pashto and Ukrainian