An eVisa is an online record of an immigration status and the conditions and permission of stay. You can find more information about eVisas at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/online-immigration-status-evisa#what-is-an-evisa.
Updating your physical document to an eVisa does not affect your immigration status or the conditions of your permission to enter or stay in the UK.
The benefits of eVisas include:
- they are secure and cannot be lost, stolen or tampered with, unlike a physical document
- you will not need to wait for, or collect, a physical document after your application is decided – you might still need to provide biometric information in person, and we will tell you if you need to do this
- it will be quicker and easier to prove your status at the UK border, and share your status with third parties like employers and landlords
You can watch a video on what an eVisa is.
Why do I need one?
From 2025, most people will not need to hold a physical document, instead a person will be able to travel and prove their rights of residence in the UK through their digital status. eVisas are replacing physical documents with an online record of your immigration status.
Where can I get help?
Citizens Advice Southampton can help you with all aspects of applying for your new eVisa. Click here to complete our form to request support and we’ll get back to you within 14 days to book an appointment with one of our eVisa advisors.