Online immigration status (eVisa)
The UK Government is replacing physical immigration documents with digital proof of immigration status called an eVisa.
What you need to do
Since 31 October 2024, the Home Office stopped issuing BRP cards.
Instead, an eVisa will be used to prove a person’s immigration status.
An eVisa is an online record of immigration status. You can find out more about eVisas at the following link:
New applicants will need to create a UKVI account to access their eVisa. Or, in some circumstances, have the accounts created for them by the Home Office.
Applicants will be given more information about this in their decision email or letter.
Using an eVisa does not affect your immigration status, or the conditions for you to enter or stay in the UK.
You should keep your UKVI account up to date with personal details and travel documents.
If you previously received a BRP you can continue to use this until it expires.
Keep your expired BRP, you can use this to create a UKVI account and access your eVisa. You can create a UKVI account before you send your application.
Problems with your BRP/ eVisa
If you have problems creating your UKVI account and accessing your eVisa you should Contact UK Visas and Immigration for help.
If you think the Home Office has made a mistake with your eVisa you can report it at the following link:
If you are vulnerable and need support to access your eVisa, you may be able to get extra help to create a UKVI account and access your eVisa:
More information
Organisations that can help
These organisations offer immediate, free support for vulnerable individuals in their transition to an eVisa:
Advice NI
Advice NI offers support to those transitioning from physical immigration documents to a digital eVisa.
- phone: 0800 915 4604
- email: advice@adviceni.net
Location: national
North Down YMCA
North Down YMCA offers support to vulnerable migrants and refugees who need to transfer to an eVisa, and access or prove their digital status. They also provide post-application support.
They offer face-to-face appointments in their Bangor office and in their outreach clinics across Northern Ireland, as well as telephone/ email advice.
- phone: 07591 840 529/ 0289 145 4290
- email: evisa@northdownymca.org
Location:
- Belfast
- outer Belfast
- east of Northern Ireland
- west and south of Northern Ireland
South Tyrone Empowerment Programme (STEP)
The South Tyrone Empowerment Programme (STEP) eVisa support service sits within the wider community advice service. It is by appointment in their offices across mid-Ulster in Dungannon, Cookstown and Magherafelt.
- phone: 028 877 50211
- email: reception@stepni.org
Location: west and south of Northern Ireland
Accessing your eVisa
Find out how to access your eVisa at the link below: