The UK’s immigration system is entering a transformative digital era. From 1 January 2025, the UK Government will fully implement its electronic visa system, marking a complete shift from physical to digital immigration documents. This guide explains everything you need to know about these important changes.
Understanding the 2025 Digital Immigration System Changes
Starting 1 January 2025, physical visa documents will be replaced with electronic visas (eVisas). This major change affects several key immigration documents:
- Biometric Residence Permits (BRP cards)
- Biometric Residence Cards (BRC cards)
- Visa vignettes (stickers in passports)
- Passport endorsement stamps
What the Digital System Means for Visa Holders
The eVisa system brings several practical changes for people living and working in the UK:
- No more physical visa documents to carry
- Passport-only travel in and out of the UK
- Online access to immigration status
- Easy sharing of visa status with employers and landlords
Digital Immigration Status
The digital system allows you to:
- View your current status anytime
- Share details with employers
- Provide information to landlords
- Check your visa conditions online
- Setting Up Your UKVI Online Account
Who Already Has a UKVI Account?
You might already have an account if you:
- Applied under the EU Settlement Scheme
- Used the UK Immigration: ID Check app
- Created an account during a recent visa application
What You Need to Access eVisa Services
To use the digital system, you’ll need:
- Your identity document details (passport or BRP)
- Date of birth
- Mobile number or email linked to your UKVI account
Creating Your New UKVI Account: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Initial Setup
- To create your account, you’ll need:
- BRP number or visa application number (format: 1234-1234-1234-1234 or GWF123456789)
- Date of birth
- Contact details (email and mobile)
The UKVI will email you specific instructions for setting up your account.
Step 2: Identity Verification
The process involves:
- Downloading the UK Immigration ID Check App
- Scanning your BRP or passport
- Taking a facial photograph
- Following the app’s instructions
Step 3: Linking Your eVisa
Final steps include:
- Logging into your UKVI account
- Completing required forms
- Making necessary declarations
- Receiving confirmation of your eVisa
Managing Your Digital Immigration Status
Keeping Your Details Updated
Remember to update your UKVI account when:
- Your passport changes
- Personal details change
- Contact information changes
Sharing Your Immigration Status
The digital system allows you to:
- View your current status anytime
- Share details with employers
- Provide information to landlords
- Check your visa conditions
Preparing for the Digital Switch
After January 2025
Get ready to:
- Use only your passport for UK travel
- Access status checks online
- Share digital proof of status
- Manage immigration matters digitally
Common Questions About UK eVisas
Travel Concerns
Many people ask about:
- International travel requirements
- Border crossing procedures
- Backup documentation needs
- Emergency situation handling
Technical Support
Help is available for:
- Account access issues
- App technical problems
- Status sharing difficulties
- Detail updates
Looking Ahead: The Future of UK Immigration
The move to digital visas represents a significant modernisation of the UK immigration system. This change aims to:
- Speed up immigration processes
- Reduce document fraud
- Simplify status checking
- Improve user experience
Disclaimer
The material contained on this website contains general information only and does not constitute legal or other professional advice and should not be relied upon as such. While every care has been taken in the preparation of the information on this site, readers are advised to seek specific advice in relation to any decision or course of action.
