Documents Required While Travelling to the UK on E-Visas

With the introduction of an E-Visa, specific changes have occurred to international travel to the UK, particularly regarding immigration checks. If you have successfully created your UKVI account for issuance of an e-visa, you are already one step closer to a smooth travel experience. The UK’s shift from BRP to E-Visa is a positive step in streamlining travel while reducing the need for physical documents. Please refer to the previous article, “Your Guide on E-Visas as BRP Holder,” to learn more about an E-Visa and how this transition will impact your travel in and out of the UK.

In this article, we will continue to learn the essential documents for travelling to the UK on an E-Visa. Gear up for your next travel with all the necessary documents to avoid any inconvenience at the immigration checks.

Disclaimer: We expect important announcements on the UKVI website until the change is fully implemented, so visit the official site before travelling to stay updated.

Let’s go in to specifics now!

Valid Passports:

Up to Six Months Validity: First and foremost, it is essential to carry a valid passport that does not expire until your stay. In some cases, the passport must be valid for at least six months from entry into the UK, regardless of the duration of your stay.

Passport with the Vignette (Sticker Visa): Ensure your passport vignette start date matches your travel dates. Although the physical vignette is being replaced with digital e-visas, existing vignettes will remain valid until expiration.

Linked to UKVI Account: It is advised to update your UKVI account details to ensure that the passport you are using for travel is linked to your account. Please check that the passenger information you provide to your airline carrier matches your Passport and UKVI account details. In case of any error in how visa status is displayed on your UKVI account, you must report it on the official site before travelling.

Do I need physical evidence of my visa status in the UK despite having an E-Visa?

Although e-visas are sufficient as proof of your immigration status, it is suggested that you keep physical evidence of your visa status in the UK. This includes a copy of the Home Office’s letter, often called a UKVI decision letter, granting permission to enter the UK.

Online Proof of Immigration Status: UKVI account

If you have permission to stay in the UK for longer than 6 months, you must have an e-visa, which is online proof of your immigration. Take a Screenshot of your UKVI account; if possible, keep a printout to present at the check-in/immigration counters.

Get a Share Code:

A share code is a 9-character unique and time-sensitive code generated by accessing a UKVI account. You can copy and share the code to allow third parties, including airlines, to access information about your immigration status in the UK. The View and Proof Service on the UKVI site can verify the share code. If you change your travel dates, generate a new share code with an extended validity. It will be used to confirm your eligibility to enter the UK.

As we know, BRPs are being phased out in favour of E-Visas, this generally means no physical documents are required at immigration checks. Though, we recommend travellers organize their physical and electronic evidence of immigration status to avoid any inconvenience if something is misplaced/lost.

When you’re travelling with families, including your children or spouse, make sure that each individual has his own e-visa linked to UKVI account. We urge you to quickly review the Home Office guidelines before departure, as unexpected changes may occur anytime.