Official Announcement: The UK government will replace Biometric Residence Permits (BRP) with eVisas starting from January 1, 2025. Follow this comprehensive and simple guide to the UK eVisa system to streamline your immigration process.
Navigating immigration can be challenging, which is why the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) agency is transitioning to an online management system. Traditional physical documents, such as Biometric Residence Permits (BRP) and passport endorsements, are being replaced by digital immigration status records, known as electronic visas (eVisas).
This transition aims to make the management process easier and more efficient.
In this article, ISC Education provides a detailed overview of what you need to know about the eVisa system, including what it is, how it works, and the benefits it brings to simplify immigration to the UK.
What is eVisa?
An eVisa, or electronic visa, is a digital record of your current immigration status. Instead of relying on physical documents like BRPs or passport endorsements, your residency status is stored online and can be accessed anytime.
This shift to electronic visas is designed to simplify the process, making immigration management and travel more convenient and accessible.
Why Do You Need a UKVI Account?
To access your eVisa, students need to set up a UKVI account.
This account allows students to view their immigration details and update personal information. Maintaining and using a UKVI account is completely free.
Getting Started
Setting up a UKVI account and eVisa is straightforward. If you hold a valid BRP expiring after December 2024, you can create a UKVI account and access your eVisa.
If your BRP has expired or you have other physical immigration documents, don’t worry—there are steps to replace these documents and smoothly transition to the eVisa system.
Traveling with eVisa
While eVisas simplify travel, it’s crucial to keep your passport information up to date in your UKVI account.
Until the transition is complete by the end of 2024, students must still carry physical documents when traveling. After this period, the eVisa will serve as the sole proof of your immigration status.
5 Simple Steps to Create a UKVI Account and Apply for an eVisa
Step 1 – Create a UKVI Account
You will need:
- A passport and the UKVI visa application reference number from your most recent overseas visa application (usually starting with ‘GWF’ and found on your visa application form), or
- A BRP (if applicable). If you have other immigration documents, such as an indefinite leave to remain (ILR) stamp or document, contact international.campuslife@swansea.ac.uk for further instructions.
Important Notes:
- Use your personal email and phone number to create the account. Avoid using someone else’s contact details, as this may cause difficulties when logging into your UKVI account.
- Do not use a university-provided email address, as it may be deactivated after graduation.
Step 2 – Verify Your Identity
Log back into your UKVI account using the link sent to your email or at www.gov.uk/get-access-evisa. Use the same document (passport or BRP) that you used to create your account in Step 1.
Follow the on-screen instructions, starting with ‘Confirm your identity’.
On a smartphone or tablet, download the UK Immigration: ID Check App from the app store to scan your BRP or passport biometrics and take a selfie for your eVisa.
Step 3 – Complete the eVisa Application Form
After identity verification, complete the remaining sections of the eVisa application in your UKVI account.
Check and update your contact preferences and security questions to ensure UKVI can directly reach you if needed. Confirm and submit each section.
You will receive a 16-digit Unique Application Number (UAN) upon successful submission. Save this number for future reference.
Step 4 – Review Your eVisa
Once UKVI confirms that your eVisa is ready, log in to view it. Check all details for accuracy, including your name, date of birth, visa type (e.g., Student), program start and end dates, and other key information.
If you spot any errors, contact international.campuslife@swansea.ac.uk immediately to correct them.
Step 5 – Update Your UKVI Account and eVisa
Ensure your eVisa is linked to the identification document (passport) used to create your UKVI account. If your passport details change or your BRP expires after December 31, 2024, update your UKVI account accordingly here.
Important Travel Notes
- Until January 1, 2025, travelers should continue carrying their BRP if valid.
- Airlines or travel operators will check your eVisa status to confirm you meet the UK’s immigration requirements before boarding.
- After January 1, 2025, eVisas must be linked to a valid passport to facilitate border control checks.
Failure to update your UKVI account could result in denied entry or delays at UK borders.
Plan ahead and update your account as soon as your eVisa is issued to avoid complications or travel disruptions.
For more detailed guidance, UKVI has published instructions and helpful videos on using eVisas for travel. Make sure to familiarize yourself with these resources for a seamless transition to the eVisa system.