Immigration Corner | Clarification on the term ‘eVisa’

Dear Mr. Bassie,

I am seeking clarification on what exactly is an eVisa. I am hoping that you can assist.

EG

Dear E.G.

Persons should be aware that eVisas allow access to, and use of a person’s online immigration status. It should be noted that an eVisa is a digital record of a person’s identity and immigration status. For example, it will provide information on the type of visa which holders have or whether they have indefinite leave to remain, that is “settlement,” in the United Kingdom (UK).

It will also contain the conditions of their status – for example if the holder is permitted to work or study in the UK. Please be aware that eVisas are replacing physical immigration documents.

It should be further noted that biometric residence permits (BRPs) have already been replaced by eVisas. The eVisas will also replace biometric residence cards (BRCs) and wet ink stamps or vignettes (stickers) that are in passports. Please note that persons will usually get an eVisa when they are successful in their application for a visa or other type of permission to be in the UK.

Persons may also view their eVisa and obtain a share code to prove their immigration status. For example, the share code can be used when persons are applying for a new job or if they are renting a home. Persons can travel with their eVisas after they have added their passport or travel document details.

Just for completeness, please be aware that persons will need a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account to access their eVisa. Persons should set up an account if they do not already have one. Please note that persons do not need to pay to set up a UKVI account or access their eVisa.

I hope this helps.

John S. Bassie

John S. Bassie is a Barrister/attorney-at-law who practises law in Jamaica. He is a justice of the peace, a Supreme Court-appointed mediator, a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, a chartered arbitrator, the past global president of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators and a member of the Immigration Law Practitioners Association (U.). Email: lawbassie@yahoo.com