The UK Home Office is replacing all physical documents with a new digital system known as the eVisa. This change affects both migrants already living in the UK and new visa applicants. Citizens Rights Project has been funded by the Home Office until the end of August 2025 to provide support to migrants in Scotland as they transition to the eVisa system. Keep reading to find out if this change applies to you or anyone you know.
What is an eVisa?
An eVisa is an online record that serves as proof of your immigration status. It replaces physical documents such as the Biometric Residence Permit (BRP), Biometric Residence Card (BRC), stamps in passports, vignette stickers, and other legacy papers.
Importantly, obtaining an eVisa DOES NOT affect your immigration status; it simply digitises the proof of your status.
I have a BRP/BRC. What do I need to set up my eVisa?
You will need the following:
- Your BRP/ BRC
- Your date of birth
- Access to your email
- Access to your mobile
- Access to a smart phone with internet access, the phone must be an iPhone 7 or newer model or an android that can make contactless payments to scan your BRP card
- The smart phone will also be used to scan your BRP card, scan your face and take a passport style photo all through the ‘UK Immigration ID Check’ app.
How do I set up my eVisa?
- Create Your UKVI Account: Begin by creating your account on the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website. Visit GOV.UK — The best place to find government services and information
- Download The App: After setting up your account, you’ll be prompted to download the ‘UK Immigration ID Check’ app. This app is essential for linking your e-Visa to your UKVI account.
- Scan Your Information: Use the app to scan your face, take a passport-style photo, and scan your BRP card. This will complete the process of linking your digital immigration status to your account.
- Check Your Details: Ensure all the details you have provided are correct before submitting.
I have a passport, vignette stickers, and other legacy papers. What do I need to set up my eVisa?
You will need to apply for a ‘No Time Limit’ application. You must have Indefinite Leave to Enter (ILE) or Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK.
You will need the following:
- Your date of birth
- Your passport
- Access to your email
- Access to your mobile
How do I set up my eVisa?
- Create Your UKVI Account: Begin by creating your account on the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website. You may already have a UKVI Account if you applied to the EU Settlement Scheme or used the ‘UK Immigration ID Check’ app to prove your identity when applying for a visa.
- Upload a Photo of Your Passport: Take a photo of your passport, making sure it meets the requirements.
- Check Your Details: Ensure all the details you have provided are correct before submitting.
Family members of EU/EEA/Swiss citizens
Third Country Nationals (TCNs) who are EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) applicants and have pre-settled or settled status under the EUSS should have a Biometric Residence Card (BRC). In this case, you should already have an eVisa, also known as Online Immigration Status.
We recommend ensuring you know how to access your eVisa and verifying that your valid passport is linked to your account. Additionally, make sure all your contact details and address are up to date. You can log into your UK Visas account here.
Need Help?
If you, or anyone you know, needs assistance with this process, the Citizens Rights Project is here to support you. You can reach us at immigration@citizensrightsproject.org with the subject line: “eVisa Transition Support.” We offer step-by-step guidance and troubleshooting to help you navigate this transition smoothly.