What is UK eVisa (Online immigration status)?

The UK eVisa is a digital version of your immigration status, making it easier and faster to manage your visa online. In this AnyVisa guide, we’ll explain what the UK eVisa is, how it works, its benefits, and how you can apply for it. Whether you're going for business, vacation, or study, understanding the eVisa will help make your trip to the UK simpler and more efficient.

What is UK eVisa?

The UK eVisa is a digital visa that links directly to your passport or another identity document. It is used to show your leg al right to live, work, or study in the UK. Unlike traditional visas that rely on physical proof like biometric residence permits (BRPs) or visa stickers, the eVisa is a paperless and secure system managed entirely online.

Transitioning to the eVisa System

The UK government has outlined a clear timeline for transitioning to the eVisa system:

From October 31, 2024, all new visa applicants will be issued eVisas instead of physical documentation.
Holders of Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) and Biometric Residence Cards (BRCs) can continue to use these until their expiration on December 31, 2024. However, they must transition to the eVisa system to maintain proof of their immigration status.

Holders of Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or Indefinite Leave to Enter (ILE) are strongly encouraged to transfer their status to the eVisa platform. This is done by applying for a No Time Limit (NTL) endorsement through the UKVI service.

How does the UK eVisa work?

The eVisa links to the holder’s passport or other approved identity documents. Once granted, individuals can access their visa details through an online portal provided by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). This portal serves as a central hub where visa holders can:

• View visa details, including validity and restrictions.
• Generate a share code to prove their immigration status.
• Update personal information, such as passport details, without visiting a UKVI office.

Credit: Home Office/YouTube

Who needs UK eVisa

The UK eVisa is for people from certain countries who need permission to visit the UK for short stays. It’s typically for tourism, business, or visiting family. If you want to visit the UK for leisure or a holiday, you’ll need this visa. Similarly, if you're traveling for business meetings or conferences, you must apply for the eVisa.

Students who plan to study in the UK for a short course also need this visa. People passing through the UK on their way to another country (transit passengers) may need an eVisa if they meet the conditions.

Only people from countries allowed to apply for the UK eVisa can use this process. The list of eligible countries can change, so it’s important to check if your country is on the list.

UK eVisa advantages: What are the benefits of an UK e-Visa?

1. Safer and more secure: Because the eVisa is stored online, it’s much harder to lose or fake compared to physical documents. This makes the system safer and more reliable.
2. Simplifies the process: Instead of carrying papers or waiting for approval letters, you can quickly prove your immigration status through the online system. Employers, landlords, and schools can also confirm your status instantly.
3. Better for the environment: Switching to an online system reduces the need for plastic cards, paper documents, and postage, making it an eco-friendly option.
4. Easily connects to other UK services: The eVisa system is linked to important UK organizations like:
   • The NHS for healthcare.
   • HMRC for taxes and jobs.
   • The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) for benefits.

How to apply UK eVisa

To apply for a UK eVisa, follow these simple steps:

• Check eligibility: Confirm you meet the visa requirements based on your nationality and travel purpose.
• Gather documents: Prepare your passport, photo, travel documents, financial proof, and any other required materials.
• Create an account: Register on the official UKVI website with your email address. Learn how to create a UKVI account and access your UK e-Visa easily by visiting our AnyVisa UK visa guide.
• Fill out the application: Complete the online form with your personal and travel details.
• Pay the fee: Pay the visa fee via debit or credit card.
• Book biometric appointment: Schedule an appointment at a Visa Application Center for fingerprints and a photo.
• Submit Your UK eVisa application: Submit all required documents and biometric information.
• Receive decision: Check your email for the visa decision. If approved, your eVisa will be linked to your passport.
• Travel to the UK: Show your passport at the UK border, where your eVisa will be verified electronically.

To learn more about the UK eVisa application process, check out our detailed guide.

Credit: Home Office/YouTube

How to link passport to UK eVisa

To link your passport to your UK eVisa, follow these simple steps:

• Log in to your UKVI account: Use the email and password you used when applying for your eVisa.
• Update passport details: Go to the "Update Details" section and enter your new passport information, like the number, expiry date, and issuing country.
• Upload documents: If required, upload a scanned copy of your new passport.
• Submit and wait: Submit the changes and wait for confirmation from UKVI. This may take a few days.
• Verify linking: Check your eVisa status online to confirm your new passport is linked.

Always update your United Kingdom eVisa if you get a new passport to avoid travel issues. If you face any problems, contact UKVI support for help.

How to update your UK Visas and Immigration account details

To update your UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account details, follow these steps:

• Log in to your UKVI account on the official website.
• Go to the "My Account" or "Profile" section.
• Edit your personal, contact, or passport information.
• Review and save the changes.
• Log out once done.

Make sure all details are correct before saving.

Credit: Home Office/YouTube

How to use UK e-Visa

The UK e-Visa simplifies the process of proving immigration status. Visa holders can generate a unique share code through their UKVI account. This code allows:

• Employers to confirm the right to work.
• Landlords to verify the right to rent.
• Educational institutions to validate student status.

The share code can be shared electronically, eliminating the need for physical documentation.

Travelers must carry the passport or identity document linked to their eVisa when entering or leaving the UK. Border control systems will automatically verify their immigration status, ensuring a seamless experience.

The UK eVisa is a simple, modern solution for managing your immigration status. It’s secure, easy to use, and better for the environment.