The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) department has outlined a streamlined process for international travelers and residents to access their digital immigration status. As physical visa stickers and biometric residence permits are phased out in favor of eVisas, setting up your UKVI account is now essential for managing and proving your right to travel, work, or study in the UK.
UKVI has published a 5-step roadmap to help travelers set up their digital immigration status. The process requires applicants to complete an online visa application, create a UKVI account, and verify their identity via the "UK Immigration: ID Check" smartphone app. Travelers are advised to carefully check all personal details on their eVisa before traveling to avoid delays at UK border control.
Step 1: Apply for Your Visa
Submit your UK visa application online via the official portal. Attend your appointment at a Visa Application Centre to submit biometrics and prove your identity, if required.
Step 2: Wait for a Decision
Wait for your application to be processed by UKVI. Make sure to regularly check your email inbox and junk mail folder for official decision notifications.
Step 3: Create Your UKVI Account
Once you receive a positive decision, go to the government portal to set up your UKVI account. You will receive a confirmation once the account creation phase is complete.
Step 4: Prove Your Identity and Link Your Account
Download the UK Immigration: ID Check app on your smartphone. Log in to your UKVI account, scan your passport or travel document, and complete the photo verification to link the account directly to your eVisa.
Step 5: View Your eVisa
You will receive an email confirmation when your eVisa is ready to view. Access your online account to check that all personal and immigration details are accurate before booking travel.
Important Pre-Travel Tips
Verify All Details: Always double-check that your passport number, name spelling, and date of birth in your UKVI account match your physical travel document exactly.
Share Codes for Verification: You can generate a digital "share code" via your account to prove your immigration status to employers, landlords, or border officials.
Dependants Need Accounts: Each family member or dependant traveling with you must have their own individual UKVI account and linked eVisa.
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that UKVI has announced that from February 25, 2026, visitors to the United Kingdom who require a visa will no longer receive physical visa documents, as the country moves fully to electronic visas. UKVI disclosed the development in a post on X on Friday, February 13, stating that affected travellers including Nigerians will instead be issued an eVisa, which must be accessed through a UKVI account before departure.
