The UK's new eVisa system: Everything you need to know

As of 2025, the UK visa system will shift to a fully digital process with the introduction of the eVisa system, marking the end of physical immigration documents. This new system is designed to make this complicated process smoother and easier. Whether you’re moving to London for work or study, the eVisa system enables you to manage your immigration status digitally, making your arrival smoother. Even if you already have a physical Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) card, you will still need to apply for an eVisa to ensure your immigration status is linked electronically.

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What is an eVisa

An eVisa is a new digital visa that you can apply for, receive, and manage online, completely eliminating the need for a physical visa. All eVisas are accessible through a UK visa holder's UKVI account. The new eVisa replaces the traditional BRP system, meaning that once approved, applicants can prove, access and manage their immigration status directly online.

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Why has the eVisa system been introduced

The eVisa system has been introduced to streamline and simplify the UK visa application process.

One of the main benefits for movers is that you no longer have the hassles of collecting your physical BRP, or potentially losing and having to replace a BRP since the visa details are now stored electronically.

Additionally, the eVisa system is designed to improve efficiency and convenience by allowing applicants to manage their visa details and immigration status entirely online. Faster processing times and a longer arrival window of up to three months provide more flexibility for applicants to plan their move to the UK. The system also offers a more cost-effective and secure way to handle visa processes without the need for physical documents.

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Key changes with eVisas

There are a number of significant changes to the UK immigration process, here’s a breakdown of the key updates.

No more BRPs

Previously, once you were approved for a visa, you had to visit a visa application centre to collect your BRP. With the new eVisa system, your visa details will be linked electronically, and you won’t need to collect a BRP from the post office in the UK. You’ll simply access your visa status online.

Longer arrival window

Instead of having to arrive within 30 days of your visa being issued, eVisa holders now have a 90 day (three-month) window to enter the UK from the date on the visa. This gives you more flexibility in planning your travel and arrival.

More streamlined process

The entire process of applying for an eVisa, from filling out the application to receiving approval is conducted entirely online. This means faster processing times, fewer physical steps, and no more need for physical documents.

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Which visas are impacted by the eVisa changes

The UK government’s transition to digital eVisas affects all visa categories that previously required a physical BRP. This includes, but is not limited to:

• ‍Youth Mobility visa: For young people coming to live an work in the UK‍
• UK Ancestry visa: For those with a grandparent born in the UK‍
• Skilled Worker visa: For individuals with a job offer in a skilled occupation‍
• Student visa: For those pursuing studies in the UK‍
• Family visa: For individuals joining family members in the UK‍
• Health and Care Worker visa: For medical professionals coming to work in the UK health sector‍
• Global Talent visa: For individuals recognised as leaders or emerging leaders in specific fields
  

Essentially, any visa that previously issued a physical BRP is now transitioning to a digital eVisa system.

How to apply for a UK eVisa (new visa applicants)

Nothing changes in the process for those applying to come and live and work or study in the UK if you don't yet have a visa. You will still need to complete the application on GOV.UK, attend a biometrics appointment in your country of residence and go through the application process. You will be prompted to create a UKVI account and set up your eVisa once your application has been approved.

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Existing BRP holders, how to apply for a UK eVisa and create a UKVI account

If you are an existing visa holder and received a letter or email asking you to create your account so that you can access your new eVisa.

1. Create a UKVI account: Follow the prompts. You will receive confirmation via email
2. Confirm your identity: Using the UK Immigration ID check app, follow the prompts to scan your identification document (BRP or passport) and take a passport photo style selfie
3. Link your account to your eVisa: Complete all the sections on the task list within your UKVI account

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Applications before and after November 1st 2024

With the rollout of the new eVisa system, the process for managing your immigration status will differ depending on whether your visa application was approved before or after November 1st, 2024.

For applications approved before November 1st, 2024

If your visa was granted before this date, you will still follow the traditional process, which includes collecting your physical BRP card at a designated collection point. Your visa details will not be linked electronically, and you will need to manage your immigration status through the existing system.

For applications approved after November 1st, 2024

If your visa is approved after November 1st, 2024, you will be part of the new eVisa system. This means that you will not need to pick up a BRP, as your visa details will be linked electronically, and you will manage your immigration status online. You’ll have access your UKVI account where you can get your eVisa details.