UK Moves to Digital Immigration: All You Need to Know About the New eVisa System

UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) is taking a big leap towards becoming digital, ditching physical immigration forms in favor of a digital immigration status: an eVisa. This new regime will help simplify, speed up, and secure immigration management for all people entering or living in the UK. The UK Moves to Digital Immigration All You Need to Know About the New eVisa System marks a major step towards a fully digital visa process for all migrants and residents

What is an eVisa?

An eVisa is an online representation of your immigration status; there will be no physical cards and documents, such as BRPs or BRCs, anymore. It demonstrates your entitlement to remain, work, or study in the UK and is easily accessible via your UKVI account.

Who Can Access an eVisa?

The eVisa is usually available when you are authorized to spend over 6 months in the UK.

You’re also eligible if:

• You possess a work or family visa (even a 6-month or less visa)

• No matter the duration of your course, you have a study visa.

• When you are issued a visa decision, you will know whether you are eligible to receive an e-Visa or not.

Who Doesn’t Need an eVisa?

You do not require an eVisa when you are:

• Travelling to the UK using an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA).

• Being a holder of a Standard Visitor visa.

• European Union Settlement Scheme family permit.

• Immigration control exempted (as diplomats).

• Remaining in the Islands of the Channel or in the Isle of Man.

If you have a physical immigration document with no expiry date, you may apply for an eVisa via a No Time Limit application.

How to Create a UKVI Account?

In order to open a new UKVI account, you will need:

A telephone number and an email address.

One of the following:

• An authentic passport and your visa application number (GWF/UAN).

• An authentic passport and BRP number.

• Your out-of-date BRP card (can be utilized to a maximum of 18 months after its expiry)

Once you have created your account, you will be required to verify your identity and connect your account to your eVisa in the official app on your smartphone. 

If you are unable to use the app, that is not a problem; there are other methods to confirm your identity.

How to Check if You Already Have a UKVI Account?

You can already have a UKVI account when you:

• Have previously used UK Immigration: ID Check.

• Opened an account in the process of visa application.

• Have substituted your hardcopy immigration document with an eVisa.

• In the case of the EU Settlement Scheme.

Not sure. Attempt to sign in to see your eVisa; do not create an additional account if you already have one.

Why the Change Matters

Such a shift to eVisas is a step towards the UK vision of a paperless and modern immigration system. It minimizes the risk of the lost documents, accelerates the border checks, and provides the migrants with faster access to the information about their visa at any time and place.

Conclusion

The digital immigration change in the UK is a giant stride to convenience and security. When you are in the UK, whether moving, studying, or working, make sure you create or update your UKVI account to remain in touch with your eVisa.

1. What is an eVisa?

The eVisa is a digital status of immigration, replacing physical documentation (e.g. BRPs) for quicker and paperless immigration to the UK. 

2️. Do I have to have a physical Visa card now?

No. Once the eVisa is linked to your UKVI account you don’t need a physical card. ✅

3.  How do I know if I have a UKVI account already?

If you have used the UK Immigration: ID Check app or have applied for a UK visa online, you most likely have an account.

Written by [Ketan Borada / British Portal Team] – Founder of British Portal, dedicated to providing accurate and up-to-date information on UK public services and benefits.