UK Digital Immigration Status
Complete guide to traveling with the new UK digital status that's replacing BRPs
The UK's Digital Immigration System
The UK has been transitioning from physical Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) to a fully digital immigration status system, also referred to as eVisas. This significant change affects how UK residents prove their status both within the UK and when traveling internationally.
As of 2025, most new and renewed UK visas are being issued digitally without a physical card. If you previously held a BRP, you might now have digital status instead. This guide explains what digital immigration status means for international travel, how to access and prove your status, and how it affects your visa-free travel options.
Physical BRP cards can still be used to enter the UK until June 1, 2025, even if they expired on December 31, 2024. This gives you more time to transition to digital status. However, you should still apply for eVisa access as soon as possible.
Understanding Digital Immigration Status
What is Digital Immigration Status?
UK digital immigration status (or eVisa) is an electronic record of your permission to enter, stay, work, or study in the UK. Instead of a physical BRP card, your immigration status is stored digitally in UK government systems.
- Accessible online through the UK government's "View and Prove" service
- Linked to your passport number and personal details
- Contains the same information previously shown on a BRP
- Can be shared with others (like employers or landlords) via a "share code"
- No physical card is issued for most visa types
- More secure and cannot be lost or stolen like physical cards
BRP to Digital Status Transition
The UK's transition from physical BRPs to digital status has been implemented in phases since 2022:
- Phase 1 (2022-2023): Introduction for EU Settlement Scheme holders
- Phase 2 (2023-2024): Expansion to other visa categories
- Phase 3 (2024-2025): Complete transition for most visas
- Phase 4 (2025+): All new visas issued digitally only
If you still have a valid physical BRP, you can continue using it until June 1, 2025. When you renew or change your visa, you'll likely receive digital status only. You should register for digital access now to be prepared.
| Feature | Physical BRP | Digital Status |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Plastic card with chip | Online digital record |
| Accessibility | Physical possession required | Access online anytime, anywhere |
| Proof method | Show physical card | Share code or online verification |
| Security | Can be lost or stolen | Cannot be physically lost |
| International travel | Present card at border | May need printed proof or digital access |
| Updates | Requires new card issuance | Updated automatically in system |
| Cost | Replacement fees if lost | No replacement costs |
How to Access Your UK Digital Immigration Status
View and Prove Service
The primary way to access your digital immigration status:
- Visit gov.uk/view-prove-immigration-status
- Sign in using your UKVI account details
- Verify your identity through security procedures
- View your current immigration status and conditions
- Generate share codes for verification
If you don't have a UKVI account, you'll need to create one using details from your visa approval communication.
Mobile App Access
Download the official UK government app for convenient access:
- Search "UK Immigration: ID Check" in app stores
- Sign in with your UKVI account details
- Complete identity verification
- Access status information offline
- Generate share codes from your mobile
- Receive notifications about status changes
The mobile app offers offline access to basic status information, useful when traveling with limited internet connectivity.
Generate Share Codes
Create secure codes to share your status with others:
- Log in to "View and Prove" service
- Select "Share your status"
- Choose reason (travel, employment, etc.)
- Generate the verification code
- Share with relevant organization
Share codes are valid for 30 days and allow others to verify your status without accessing your full record.
Prepare for Travel
Essential steps before international travel:
- Print a PDF of your digital status
- Take screenshots on your phone
- Note down your UKVI account details
- Generate a travel-specific share code
- Save offline access information
- Contact your airline about their digital status policy
Traveling Internationally with Digital Immigration Status
Using digital immigration status for international travel requires careful preparation, especially as the system is still relatively new and not all border officials worldwide are familiar with it.
Before Travel
- Access and verify: Check your digital status is accessible and correct
- Print documentation: Always carry printed proof of your status
- Create share codes: Generate codes specifically for travel purposes
- Check airline policies: Contact your airline about digital status acceptance
- Download offline app: Ensure mobile app works without internet
- Update passport details: Ensure digital status matches current passport
At Border Control
When Leaving the UK:
- Present your passport as usual
- Show printed proof if asked about UK status
- Provide share code if requested
- Use UK e-Gates if eligible
When Entering Another Country:
- Present passport first
- Show printed digital status confirmation if needed
- Access online status if internet available
- Explain UK's transition to digital if officials unfamiliar
- Be patient and prepared to provide additional documentation
Recommended Documentation
Primary documents:
- Valid passport
- Printed confirmation of UK immigration status
- UKVI account details for online access
- Screenshots of digital status on phone
Supporting documents:
- Share code for status verification
- Original visa decision/approval letter
- BRP card (if you still have valid one)
- Return flight booking
- Proof of accommodation in UK
Important Considerations
- Internet connectivity: Not guaranteed at all borders - always carry printed proof
- Official familiarity: Some border officials may be unfamiliar with UK's digital system
- Passport linking: Digital status is linked to current passport - update when renewed
- Not a replacement: Digital status never replaces your actual passport
- System updates: Check status is current before each trip
- Time zones: Account for time differences when accessing online status
Visa-Free Countries Accepting Digital Status
Countries that previously accepted physical BRPs for visa-free entry generally accept digital immigration status as well. However, practical implementation may vary as officials adapt to the UK's new system.
Based on traveler reports and official guidance, most accepting countries are honoring digital status the same as physical BRPs. Printed proof is generally preferred over digital-only verification.
European Countries
- Albania - 90 days
- Montenegro - 30 days
- Georgia - 90 days
- Serbia - 90 days
- North Macedonia - 15 days
- Gibraltar - 21 days
Americas & Caribbean
- Mexico - 180 days
- Panama - 90 days
- Jamaica - 30 days
- Bahamas - 90 days
- Barbados - 180 days
- Dominican Republic - 30 days
Asia & Middle East
- Turkey - e-Visa eligible
- UAE - 14 days (conditions apply)
- Singapore - 96h transit
- Armenia - 120 days
- Philippines - 14 days
- South Korea - transit
Important Notes
- All countries that accepted UK BRPs are expected to accept digital status
- Individual experiences may vary based on border official familiarity
- Always carry printed proof of your digital status
- Your nationality may still affect specific entry conditions
- Check with destination embassies for the latest requirements
Troubleshooting Digital Status Issues
Common Problems & Solutions
Cannot Access Digital Status:
- Check internet connection and try different browser
- Verify you're using correct login details
- Try password reset if needed
- Clear browser cache and cookies
- Contact UKVI if problems persist
Incorrect Information Displayed:
- Take screenshots of incorrect information
- Contact UKVI immediately to report errors
- Keep previous documentation as proof
- Avoid travel until issue resolved if possible
Airline Issues:
- Show printed confirmation from UKVI
- Provide share code for verification
- Explain UK's transition to digital system
- Ask for supervisor if necessary
- Allow extra time for check-in
Emergency Contacts
International: +44 (0)203 875 4669
Website: gov.uk/contact-ukvi
Have your UKVI reference number ready
App Support: Available through app help section
Web Chat: Available on government website during office hours
For consular assistance if facing travel difficulties
Can liaise with local immigration officials
Always contact UKVI first for immigration status issues. Embassies have limited ability to intervene in immigration matters but can provide consular support.
Yes, in principle. Countries that offer visa-free access to UK BRP holders are accepting the digital status equivalent. The UK government has communicated this change to foreign governments internationally.
However, practical implementation varies. Some border officials may be less familiar with the digital system, so carrying printed proof of your status is strongly recommended. The transition period will likely include some inconsistencies as systems and officials adapt to the UK's digital approach.
As more UK residents travel with digital status only, acceptance is becoming more consistent across countries that previously recognized BRPs.
IATA Travel Centre: iatatravelcentre.com
Check current requirements for your destination
If you still have a valid physical BRP while also having digital status (during the transition period), you should:
- Carry both when traveling internationally - the physical card provides a familiar format that most border officials recognize
- Verify that your digital record matches your physical BRP details
- Continue using your BRP until June 1, 2025 (extended deadline)
- Familiarize yourself with accessing your digital status in preparation
Remember: Physical BRPs are now valid until June 1, 2025, even if they show an expiry date of December 31, 2024. This gives you extra time to transition.
Your digital immigration status is linked to your passport details. If you get a new passport, you must update your UKVI account immediately:
- Log in to your UKVI account through the "View and Prove" service
- Select the option to update your passport details
- Enter your new passport information carefully
- Upload images of your new passport if requested
- Submit changes and wait for confirmation
Failing to update your passport details could cause problems when:
- Traveling (airlines and border officials cannot verify your status)
- Proving your right to work, rent, or access services in the UK
- Applying for visa extensions or settlement
Always update your details promptly when you receive a new passport.
Your right to re-enter the UK is electronically linked to your passport in the UK immigration database. To ensure smooth travel:
- Before departure: Check your status is current and accessible online
- Documentation: Carry printed copy of your immigration status confirmation
- At check-in: Airlines can verify your status using passport details or share code
- UK border: Immigration officers can check your status electronically
If you are eligible to use UK e-Gates (based on nationality), you can typically do so with your digital status. The system should recognize your right to enter based on your passport details.
If you encounter issues, be prepared to access your status online or show your printed confirmation. UK border officers have full access to check your immigration status in their systems.
If your digital status shows incorrect information or won't load while traveling:
Immediate steps:
- Try accessing from different device or browser
- Use mobile app if online website isn't working
- Show printed copy of your status if you have one
- Present any other UK immigration documents you carry
If information is incorrect:
- Take screenshots of the error immediately
- Contact UKVI Customer Contact Centre: +44 (0)203 875 4669
- Explain you're traveling and need urgent assistance
- Provide your reference numbers and passport details
For future travel:
- Always carry printed proof of your status
- Screenshot your status on your phone before travel
- Test your digital access before departure
- Keep UKVI contact numbers saved in your phone
Website: gov.uk/contact-ukvi
Available for urgent travel-related status issues
Official Resources & Authority Contacts
UK Government Sources
International: +44 (0)203 875 4669
Website: gov.uk/ukvi
Digital Status: gov.uk/view-prove-immigration-status
Website: gov.uk/browse/abroad/passports
For passport updates and linking issues
Digital Services Support
App Support: Available through "UK Immigration: ID Check" app
Web Chat: Available during office hours on gov.uk
Email: Available through online contact forms
App Requirements: iOS 12+ or Android 8+
Connection: Stable internet required for initial setup
Troubleshooting: Clear cache, try incognito mode
Travel Verification
Real-time visa requirement checker
Used by airlines worldwide for verification
Emergency Support
Available 24/7 for urgent immigration issues
Have passport and reference numbers ready
For British citizens only
Your Embassy: Use your nationality's consular services
Available for travel document emergencies
Traveling Confidently with Digital Status
The UK's transition to digital immigration status represents a significant modernization of its immigration system that aligns with global digitization trends. While this change brings both conveniences and challenges for international travelers, being well-prepared and understanding how to access and prove your status will help ensure smooth travel experiences.
Remember that countries that previously accepted UK BRPs for visa-free travel should recognize digital status equally, though carrying printed proof is strongly recommended during this transition period. The key is preparation and having multiple ways to prove your status when traveling.
With the extended BRP validity until June 1, 2025, you have time to familiarize yourself with the digital system while still using your physical card if you prefer.
While we strive to keep this information accurate and up-to-date, the transition to digital immigration status is ongoing and procedures may change. The information about BRP extensions and digital status requirements is current as of May 2025 but subject to change.
Always verify with official UK government sources and the embassy/consulate of your destination country before travel. Contact information and technical requirements mentioned may be updated by the government.
Information last updated: May 2025