eVisa — your digital status
eVisa is your immigration status online. The BRP card no longer works (expired 31.12.2024). Now everything is in your account on gov.uk. It is free and does not change your status.
📱 What is an eVisa
Before, your status was recorded on a plastic BRP card. Now the Home Office moved all records to a digital system. This is your eVisa.
Your status (refugee, Humanitarian Protection, ILR, etc.) has not changed. Only the format changed — instead of a card, you now have an account on gov.uk.
All BRPs expired on 31 December 2024. Employers and landlords no longer accept the card. You need a share code from your account.
❌ Can be lost
❌ No longer accepted
✅ Online, always
✅ Required
🔧 How to set up — 4 steps
🆕 For people who just got status
If you recently received status (refugee, HP, etc.) — the Home Office already created your account automatically.
You will receive a letter with your UKVI Customer Number (starts with the letter "K"). This is your login.
Log into your account within 14 days of receiving the letter. If you don't — the account won't disappear, but it's better to set it up straight away.
🔑 Share codes — how to prove your status
A share code is a 9-digit code that you create in your UKVI account. You give it to your employer or landlord. They enter the code on gov.uk and see your status.
There are two types: W (right to work — for employers) and R (right to rent — for landlords). The code lasts 90 days. You can create as many as you need.
📋 Who needs what from you
⚠️ Common problems
🔒 Lost access to your account
✈️ eVisa and travel
From March 2026, your travel documents are linked to your UKVI account automatically.
Tip: before travelling, take a screenshot of your status + create a share code just in case. Airlines check your status digitally (iAPI), but it's better to have it with you.
🪪 ARC (for asylum seekers)
📞 Contacts
💡 Practical tips
Frequently asked questions
What is an eVisa?
An eVisa is a digital record of your immigration status. Before, your status was on a plastic BRP card. Now it is stored online in the Home Office system. It is free. Your status has NOT changed — only the format. Instead of a card, you now have an account on gov.uk.
My BRP expired — is my status gone too?
No! All BRPs expired on 31 December 2024, but your status remains. The BRP was just a card. Your status (refugee, HP, ILR, etc.) still works. You can use your old BRP to create a UKVI account for up to 18 months after it expired.
Do asylum seekers need an eVisa?
No. If you are waiting for an asylum decision, you have an ARC (Application Registration Card). You do NOT get an eVisa. Only people who already have status get one. After you receive status, the Home Office will create your account automatically.
How do I get a share code?
Log into your UKVI account on gov.uk. Choose what to prove (W = right to work, R = right to rent). You get a 9-digit code. It lasts 90 days. Your employer or landlord enters the code on gov.uk/check-immigration-status to see your status.
Do I need a share code for the NHS?
No. The NHS checks your status automatically through its own internal system. You do not need to show a share code to register with a GP or get healthcare.
I lost access to my phone and email — what do I do?
Call the UKVI Resolution Centre: 0300 790 6268 (Mon-Fri 8am-8pm, Sat-Sun 9:30am-4:30pm). They will verify your identity by asking questions about your case. They will restore your access. For urgent travel help — Passenger Support: 0800 876 6921 (free, 24/7).