Transition to eVisa System

An eVisa is an online record that shows an individual's immigration status in the UK, and any conditions which apply. They can view it and share it with others. It's usually connected to their passport.

Who needs to apply for an eVisa?

People who have physical immigration documents, like a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP), need to make an online UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI) account and get their eVisa by 31 December 2024.

Do children need an eVisa?

Yes.

Everyone needs their own UKVI account. If a child cannot create and manage their own account, a parent, guardian, or responsible adult should do it for them. When the child can manage their own account or turns 18, the account can be transferred to them.

Do I need to pay for an eVisa?

Creating an eVisa is free and it won't change a person's current immigration status.

You can get free help and advice for making a UKVI account and getting an eVisa.

Check the 'Help and support available' section below.

What if there's a wrong information on my BRP that isn't the same as UKVI records?

If there is a mistake on someone's BRP, for example, if their name, gender, or date of birth is wrong, they should tell the Home Office.

They can call the UKVI contact centre at 0300 790 6268.

To use the app, you need:

Android users

• Android 8.0 and above - you can find this information within your settings
• At least 135MB of storage space to install the app
• Connected to 3G, 4G, 5G or WiFi
• NFC (Near-Field Communication) so the app can scan your document, you can find this information within your settings. If you can use your phone to pay for things using contactless, this means it has NFC, and you can use the app.

iPhone users

The 'UK Immigration - ID Check' app is available for iPhone 7 and newer models.

iPhone users will need:

• iPhone 7, 7 Plus or newer
• iOS 15 or later - to find the software version installed, go to Settings > General, then the About section.
• At least 120MB of storage space to install the app
• Connected to 3G, 4G, 5G or WiFi

Help and support available

Individuals experiencing issues with their application are advised to contact the UKVI contact centre.

• Telephone - 0300 790 6268.

What if I don't have access to the internet or if my smartphone doesn't meet the technical requirements?

Help is available to fill in an online Home Office application. This help is known as 'Assisted Digital' support.

You can get help over the phone or in person. We Are Group will check if you can get this help. You can contact them from Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm.

• Email - visa@we-are-digital.co.uk
• Text 'VISA' and a number to call you on to 07537 416 944
• Telephone - 03333 445 675 (call charges may apply).

Migrant Help provides free support for vulnerable people in their transition to an eVisa.

People who need help can get face-to-face support to set up their UKVI account and access their eVisa.

To ask for help, call 07483 170100 or email evisa@migranthelpuk.org.

Is support available locally?

Yes.

Preston City Council is setting up eVisa clinics with Migrant Help and other local groups to help people in Preston get their eVisa and make UKVI accounts.

The Preston eVisa Clinics will be on the following dates*.

• Monday 24 February 2025, 10am - 3pm - Preston Muslim Forum, Rear of, 158 Castleton Rd, Preston PR1 6QH.
• Monday 03 March 2025, 10am - 3pm - The Hive (based in the upper learning zone), Preston College, St Vincents Road, PR2 8UR

• Monday 10 March 2025, 10am - 3pm - The Hive (based in the upper learning zone), Preston College, St Vincents Road, PR2 8UR

Please note - learners will need to wear their College ID badges when attending the session.

Other clinics will be added to the list soon.