eVisas and BRPs: What you need to know

The UK visa system has officially gone digital. eVisas have replaced Biometric Residence Permits or BRPs. It’s a positive change that means you’ll never have to worry about losing your immigration ID card again.

If you’re living in the UK and used to rely on a BRP or Biometric Residence Card (BRC), you should now be using an eVisa to prove your immigration status.

What’s a BRP (and what’s changed)?

A Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) is a physical identity card that shows details like your immigration status, visa type, and right to work or study in the UK. It has a chip on the rear.

Previously, anyone moving to the UK from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) needed one. Now, BRPs (and Biometric Residence Cards or BRCs) have been phased out and replaced by eVisas.

Most BRPs expired on 31 December 2024, but this does not affect your visa — only how you access and prove your status.

Since October 2024, the UK has stopped issuing BRPs. Anyone moving to the UK or extending their visa now manages their immigration status entirely online.

BRP and BRC: What’s the difference?

BRPs cover a range of UK immigration statuses, while BRCs were specifically for non-EU family members of EU citizens under the EU Settlement Scheme. Both are cards that hold biometric information and proof of UK immigration status.

BRP Update: I still have a BRP – what should I do?

Even though your BRP card has expired, your visa remains valid. You now need to access and use your eVisa to prove your immigration status.

Here’s how to set it up:

1. Create or log in to your UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account - You’ll need your passport and BRP details. If you created an account when applying for your visa, use the same one.
2. Link your eVisa to your UKVI account - You’ll be prompted to download the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app to verify your identity by scanning your BRP and taking a photo.
3. Log back into your account to confirm your details - Once complete, you’ll be able to view and share your eVisa online.

How to use your eVisa

You’ll use your eVisa in the same way you used your BRP, including to:

• Prove your right to work or rent
• Register with a university or employer
• Apply for a UK driving licence

You can securely share your status using the ‘View and Prove’ service. Simply generate a share code and give it to the person or organisation that needs to check your status.

Why move to eVisas?

The digital system makes immigration status easier and safer to manage: You can’t lose or damage your visa like a physical card. It’s secure — only you can access it, and you control who sees your status. No need to collect documents when you arrive in the UK. You can update your personal details online anytime.

What if I never collected my BRP?

If you recently applied for a BRP but didn’t collect it before the switch, you should still pick it up from your Post Office. You may need its number to help link your eVisa to your UKVI account.

Your 2025 eVisa checklist

To stay compliant and access your immigration status easily:

• Check if you already have a UKVI account and create one if not.
• Register any dependants who can’t do it themselves.
• Download and use the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app to verify your details.Keep your expired BRP somewhere safe for your records.