shqiptarëteVisa: your online immigration status in the UK
An eVisa is the digital record of your identity and UK immigration status, for example your visa type or indefinite leave to remain, and its conditions, for example whether you can work or study. GOV.UK says eVisas have replaced physical immigration documents.
This is general information from the official GOV.UK pages below, not legal advice. For your own case, use the official UKVI webchat.
- Cost
- Free. You do not pay to set up a UKVI account or to access your eVisa.
- What you need
- A UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration) account, with a phone number and email address you use every time you sign in.
- Share code
- Lasts 90 days and can be used as many times as needed. You can get a new one whenever you need it.
- Expired BRP
- Can be used to set up an account for 24 months after its expiry date or until 31 December 2026, whichever comes first.
Steps
- Check whether you already have an account
You do if you have used the 'UK Immigration: ID Check' app, created an account when applying for a visa, replaced a BRP/BRC with an eVisa, or applied to the EU Settlement Scheme. Do not create a second one. - Create a UKVI account
You need a valid passport and your application number (GWF or UAN), or a valid passport and your BRP number, or your expired BRP. - Confirm your identity and link your eVisa
Usually with a smartphone app. There is another way if you have no valid passport or expired BRP, or cannot use the app. The eVisa usually appears straight away, or within 24 hours. - Get a share code when asked
For example for an employer or landlord. They also need your date of birth; you do not show them the eVisa itself. - Keep your account up to date
Update your passport, name, phone, email and address when they change.
Before you travel
- Add the passport you travel with to your UKVI account.
- Your details must match what you give your airline. Otherwise you may not be allowed to travel, or be delayed at the border.
- If asked for extra proof, you can give a share code, or a physical document if you have one.
Settlement shown by an old stamp or sticker
- If you have a stamp or sticker with no expiry date proving settlement, you can make a free 'no time limit' (NTL) application to get an eVisa.
- You need fingerprints and a photo at a UKVCAS service point. GOV.UK says it can take up to 6 months.
Dual nationality
- If one of your nationalities is British or Irish, you do not need an eVisa; travel on your British or Irish passport.
Without a share code
- For work: you can give your employer a share code or your eligible immigration documents. Your employer cannot turn you down because you chose documents instead of a share code.
- If you cannot prove your right to work, your employer can check it with the Home Office Employer Checking Service.
- For renting in England: the same choice, a share code or your original immigration documents. If you cannot prove it, your landlord can ask for a Home Office right to rent check.
Kosovo citizens: the eVisa rules are the same for all nationalities. United Kingdom: the essentials
Sources
- GOV.UK: eVisas: access and use your online immigration status
- GOV.UK: eVisa guide, full printable version (UKVI account, NTL, travel)
- GOV.UK: View your eVisa and get a share code
- GOV.UK: Update your details in your UKVI account
- GOV.UK: Prove your right to work
- GOV.UK: Prove your right to rent in England