UK Goes Digital with eVisas: Key Changes and Deadlines Explained

Travelling to or living in the United Kingdom in 2025 has never been easier, at least when it comes to managing your immigration status. The UK Visas and Immigration Department (UKVI) has fully transitioned from physical residence permits and visa documents to an online immigration record known as the eVisa.

Millions have already registered for an eVisa since the rollout began in 2018 via schemes like the EU Settlement Scheme. But now starting July 15, all visa holders must switch to an online immigration status called an eVisa. Here’s everything you need to know.

What is the UK eVisa?

The eVisa is the UK government’s new digital alternative to physical visa documents like BRP cards, visa vignettes, and wet-ink stamps. Instead of carrying proof of your immigration status in your passport or as a plastic card, your status is now stored online and tied to your passport.

You’ll use a UKVI account to access and share your visa details with employers, landlords, airlines, and public services.

What’s New From July 15, 2025?

From today:

• All new UK visa holders will only receive an eVisa. No physical BRP or visa sticker.
• Existing visa holders must set up a UKVI account and link their visa before the deadline.
• The UK’s border control systems are now fully synced with eVisas, meaning physical visas won’t be accepted after this transition.

This marks a full shift from paper-based and card-based documentation to a 100% digital immigration system.

Who Needs an eVisa?

The eVisa applies to anyone who holds a UK visa, including:

• Skilled workers
• Students
• Temporary workers
• Dependents and family members
• Health and care visa holders
• Innovator and global talent visa holders
• Long-term visitors with vignette stickers
• Asylum seekers granted leave to remain

If you have a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) or a visa vignette in your passport, you must now switch to an eVisa.

Who Doesn’t Need an eVisa?

How to Switch to an eVisa (Step-by-Step)

Here’s how to set up your UKVI account and move to the digital system:

1. Create Your UKVI Account

Go to: https://www.gov.uk/get-access-evisa, and you will need:

• A valid email address
• Your passport details
• Your current visa or BRP card
• Access to a phone for security codes

2. Link Your Visa

Once you’ve created the account:

• Enter your passport number and visa details
• The system should pull up your current immigration status
• If it doesn’t, you can manually link your visa

3. Keep It Updated

• If you get a new passport, update the UKVI system immediately
• If you change your contact details or email, update that too

4. Share Your Status When Needed

You can generate a ‘share code’ to prove your right to work, rent, study, or access the NHS.

Use this tool: https://www.gov.uk/view-prove-immigration-status

What Travellers to the UK Should Know

If you’re travelling to the UK from today, here’s what to keep in mind:

Requirement	Will airlines check eVisa?
eVisa Required?	Yes, if you hold a UK visa
Physical BRP/Vignette Accepted?	No
Must Link Passport to eVisa?	Yes
Will Airlines Check eVisa?	No, but UK Border Force will at entry
Travel Document Must Match?	Yes. Always travel on the passport linked to your eVisa
Problems at Border if Not Linked?	Yes. You may be delayed or refused entry

Tip: Don’t wait until your travel date. Set up your UKVI account and confirm your digital status now.

Why Is the UK Doing This?

The UK government says the eVisa system is part of a broader plan to digitise immigration services, make borders more secure, and simplify life for visa holders. Other reasons:

• No more lost BRP cards or expired vignettes
• Instant online checks for employers and landlords
• Faster, paperless travel processing at borders
• Aligned with global standards like Australia’s and Canada’s digital visa systems

Final Checklist

• Set up your UKVI account
• Link your passport to your eVisa
• Keep your travel documents up to date
• Use share codes when proving your immigration status
• Switch before December 31, 2025

🔗 Useful Links

Final Thoughts

The UK eVisa system is live, and it’s not optional. Whether you’re already living in the UK or planning to travel soon, take the few minutes now to register your account, link your documents, and stay ahead of the deadline.

This shift is a major step forward, but only if you’re prepared.