Accessing your eVisa for UK visa holders
The UK government is moving to a digital immigration system and a UKVI account and eVisa must be set up now before any travel, to ensure a smooth re-entry to the UK
The UK government is moving to a digital immigration system and replacing physical visa documents with an online only record of an individual’s UK immigration status, known as an eVisa.
On 31 December 2024 Biometric Residence Permits/Cards expire. If you have not yet set up a UKVI account and eVisa, you need to do this now to access your UK visa status. The account allows you to view and prove your rights in the UK, link your immigration status to your passport for return travel to the UK and update your personal details. Everyone must have their own UKVI account. Where a child under the age of 18 is unable to create and manage their own account, a parent or guardian should do this for them.
Travelling from 1 January 2025:
Until the end of 2024 you must continue to carry your physical Biometric Residence Permit/Card when you travel, even if you have an eVisa.
From 1 January 2025 it is essential that your UKVI account and eVisa status has been set up, and your current passport linked to your account. Check your eVisa is correct and in good time before you travel. You might be delayed or denied boarding by carriers if you do not do this.
If you were previously granted settlement (also known as Indefinite Leave to Remain) and have an ink stamp or vignette sticker in an expired passport you should make a No Time Limit (NTL) application to register your biometrics and get your UKVI account and eVisa.
Find out more:
- A UKVI account can be created here: www.gov.uk/get-access-evisa
- Further information, see: www.gov.uk/eVisa
- Information about travelling on an eVisa
- Frequently Asked Questions can be found on the Staff Immigration Team pages
