How to create a UKVI account and access your eVisa in the UK
The UK border and immigration system is becoming digital. Physical documents are being replaced by eVisas. The deadline for creating eVisas in the UK is by the end of 2024. You’ll need to create a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account before then to access your eVisa. Most biometric residence permits (BRPs) have an expiry date of 31 December 2024, as eVisas are set to replace BRPs. If you currently have physical proof of your immigration status – such as a Biometric Residence Permit, or BRP – or another immigration status document – like a vignette visa sticker inside your passport – then this information is for you.
This VIDEO will illustrate how to create your UKVI account, so you can access your eVisa.
What you need to create UKVI account
Your eVisa is an online record of your immigration status and the conditions for you to stay in the UK. Creating an account won’t affect your current immigration status.
To create your UKVI account, you will need
Your BRP number or application number – this might be called a UAN, or start with the letters GWF. Your application number was automatically created during the visa application process. A copy of it will have been sent to you by email or post.
If you do not have any of the above, go to GOV.UK/eVisa for advice on what to do.
A family member or a friend can help you create a UKVI account.
To get started, here’s what you need:
· A smartphone, laptop or any device with internet access, you can borrow someone else’s if needed.
· Your identity document: This can be your BRP or your passport.
· Your BRP or Application number.
· Your date of birth.
· Your email address.
· A mobile phone number; and
· Access to the UK Immigration: ID Check App, which you can find in the Google Play Store or App Store. (If you cannot download the app, you can use a friend or family member’s smartphone, with their permission)
Steps to creating a UKVI account and access your eVisa
There are three steps you need to take to create a UKVI account and access your eVisa:
Step 1 Create UKVI account
If you received a letter or email telling you to create an account, follow the instructions or go to gov.uk/eVisa to access the Create a UKVI account service.
Fill in your details and click Create account.
You will then get confirmation - via an email - that your UKVI account has been created and you can Sign in.
Step 2 Confirm your identity
Confirm your identity by using the UK Immigration: ID Check app and following the instructions. (If you are using a computer, laptop, or tablet you will need to download the app on a smartphone and use the smartphone’s camera to scan a QR code.)
Or, you can request a connection code to connect to the app instead.
The app will ask you to take a picture of your BRP or passport, check your document’s information and take a picture of your face.
Step 3 – Link your account to your eVisa
To do this, you will need to complete all the sections on the task list. Then, confirm you have read the declaration and click Submit. You will then receive an email when your eVisa is ready to view and in some cases this could take up to a few days. If you are unable to finish confirming your identity or linking your account to your eVisa, we will send you an email link so you can start where you left off.
When your account is created
When your account is created, your eVisa will be linked to the identity document you used to create your account. If you are planning to travel outside the UK you must check your current travel document is linked to your eVisa before you travel; this will ensure you have the smoothest journey when boarding to return to the UK. You can do this by using the ‘Update your UK Visas and Immigration account details’ service, which you can find on GOV.UK.
If you need support creating your account or want more information about how eVisas will affect you, visit GOV.UK/eVisa
Need Help?
If you need expert legal advice or guidance, we are more than happy to help you at Tulia. We offer paid low-cost and Free Consultations.
Please use the following link to book a consultation with us CLICK HERE
At Tulia, we believe that everyone deserves to have a safe and welcoming place to call home. We are committed to helping migrants settle well in the UK and to achieve their full potential. Don’t forget to share this article!
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