As part of its ongoing efforts to streamline immigration processes and improve security, the UK Government is replacing physical immigration documents with a digital proof of status called an eVisa. This marks a major shift in how immigration status is stored and shared, and it’s crucial for current and future visa holders to understand what this means and what actions they need to take.

Key Highlights at a Glance

• Physical documents like BRPs and visa vignettes are being phased out.

• eVisas are free and provide a secure, online record of your immigration status.

• Airlines can no longer accept expired BRPs/BRCs for travel to the UK.

• All BRP holders must create a UKVI account to access their eVisa: www.gov.uk/eVisa

• From 15 July 2025, vignettes will no longer be issued for some visa types.

What Is an eVisa?

An eVisa is a digital record of your UK immigration status, stored and accessed online via a UKVI account. It shows your immigration permission and any conditions tied to it, such as right to work or study.

You can view and prove your status using the government’s ‘View and Prove’ service:
www.gov.uk/view-prove-immigration-status

Who Needs to Take Action?

You must act now if:

• You hold an expired BRP or legacy paper document (e.g. passports with wet-ink stamps or vignette stickers).

• You’ve not yet created a UKVI account to access your eVisa.

Create your UKVI account and link your ID/passport here: www.gov.uk/eVisa

Those with valid eVisas should keep their contact and travel document details updated.

Benefits of eVisa

• Can’t be lost or stolen

• Access anytime from your phone or device

• Fast & secure proof of immigration status

• No more carrying physical documents

• Government departments can check your status directly (e.g., DWP, NHS, DVLA)

Travelling with an eVisa

Before international travel:

1. Ensure your passport is linked to your UKVI account.

2. Update details at: www.gov.uk/update-uk-visas-immigration-account-details

3. Generate a share code (valid for 90 days) at: www.gov.uk/view-prove-immigration-status

Expired BRPs and BRCs are no longer accepted for travel. Legacy documents (like vignettes) may still be accepted if valid.

Special Instructions for Document Holders

Expired BRP Holders

• Must create a UKVI account and verify identity using the ‘UK Immigration ID Check’ app.

• Will receive an email once eVisa is ready.

Legacy Paper Document Holders

• Can apply for No Time Limit (NTL) for free to transition to eVisa.

• Don’t need to send original passport—just upload scans during application.

Biometric Residence Card (BRC) Holders

• If registered under the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS), you already have an eVisa.

• Just ensure your UKVI account is up to date.

Final Reminder

If you have a physical immigration document, do not wait.

Create your UKVI account now to avoid issues with travel, work, or public services.

Go to: www.gov.uk/eVisa

Need guidance?
As experienced UK immigration advisors, we’re here to help you make the transition to eVisa easy and smooth. Contact us today if you have questions or need personalised support.