eVisas
From January 2025, the British Government is switching to a fully digital immigration system. This means that most migrants in the UK, including Skilled Workers, Health and Care Workers, and people with status under the Ukraine Schemes, will need an online record of their immigration status called an eVisa. This guide will introduce you to what an eVisa is, why you might need one, and how to apply.
Most migrants with permission to be in the UK for longer than 6 months will need an eVisa by 31 December 2024. After that date, your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) or other physical documents will generally no longer be accepted as proof of immigration status or right to be in the UK.
What is an eVisa?
An eVisa is digital evidence of your immigration status in the UK. The eVisa will replace your physical immigration document, such as your biometric residence permit (BRP) or biometric residence card (BRC).
Once you have access to your eVisa online, you can use this to view and prove your immigration status. Using an eVisa does not affect your immigration status or the conditions for you to enter or stay in the UK.
Millions of people are already using eVisas to prove their immigration status in the UK.
The transition to eVisas is happening now. If you have a physical immigration document, like a biometric residence permit (BRP), it will likely expire at the end of 2024. Please get an eVisa to replace it before the end of the year. Remember, you will still need to apply with the Home Office for further status before your leave expires if you wish to remain in the UK. This is separate from the eVisa process.