What is Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) & UK eVisa?
A Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) is a physical card issued by the UK Home Office to non-EEA nationals granted immigration permission (visa) for more than 6 months, containing the holder's biometric information (fingerprints and photograph) and confirming their immigration status and conditions of stay. The BRP is being replaced by the UK eVisa system, a fully digital proof of immigration status accessed through a UKVI account.
Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) & UK eVisa — A Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) is a physical card issued by the UK Home Office to non-EEA nationals granted immigration permission (visa) for more than 6 months, containing the holder's biometric information (fingerprints and photograph) and confirming their immigration status and conditions of stay. The UK Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) is transitioning to a fully digital UK eVisa system. According to the UK Home Office, from 2025 onwards, physical BRP cards are no longer issued and all new visa holders receive digital eVisas.
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The UK Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) is transitioning to a fully digital UK eVisa system. According to the UK Home Office, from 2025 onwards, physical BRP cards are no longer issued and all new visa holders receive digital eVisas. Existing BRP holders must create a UKVI account to access their digital immigration status online. The eVisa system allows visa holders to prove their right to work, rent, and access public services using a share code generated through their UKVI account. BRP cards issued before 2025 remain valid until their expiry date.
Deep-Dive & Operational Guidelines
BRP to eVisa Transition Timeline: The UK Home Office began transitioning from physical BRP cards to digital eVisas starting in 2024. From 2025, physical BRP cards are no longer issued for new visa grants. All new visa holders receive a digital eVisa linked to their UKVI account. Existing BRP holders whose cards were issued before 2025 must create a UKVI account to access their digital status online. eVisa holders receive an email notification when their status is updated and must use their UKVI account to generate share codes for verification purposes.
Using the UKVI Account and Share Codes: The UKVI account is the central portal for managing digital immigration status. Account holders can view their visa details, update personal information (passport, contact details), and generate share codes. Share codes are single-use temporary codes (valid for 30 days for right-to-work checks, 90 days for right-to-rent checks) that employers, landlords, or other authorized parties can use to verify immigration status online. The share code system eliminates the need to carry physical documents and allows real-time verification of immigration permissions.
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Book Free AssessmentBiometric Residence Permit (BRP) & UK eVisa Frequently Asked Questions
Detailed answers regarding compliance guidelines and registration details.
Q. What is a UK Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)?
A BRP is a physical card with biometric data confirming your UK immigration status. It is being phased out in favor of digital eVisas.
Q. Is the BRP being replaced by eVisas?
Yes, from 2025 physical BRPs are no longer issued. All new visa holders receive a digital eVisa through a UKVI account.
Q. What is a UK eVisa?
A UK eVisa is a fully digital record of your immigration status that can be accessed and shared online through a UKVI account.
Q. How do I create a UKVI account?
You can create a UKVI account through the official UK government website. You will need your passport, BRP number (if applicable), and email address.
Q. What is a share code?
A share code is a temporary code generated through your UKVI account that allows employers and landlords to verify your immigration status online.
Q. How long is a share code valid?
Right-to-work share codes are valid for 30 days. Right-to-rent share codes are valid for 90 days.
Q. Can I travel with only an eVisa?
You can use your eVisa to re-enter the UK, but you should carry your valid passport linked to your UKVI account.
Q. Do I need to carry my BRP when traveling?
If you have a valid BRP card, carry it when traveling. eVisa holders do not need a physical document.
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