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Proving Your Immigration Status in the UK

Rachael Caffrey , 

If you live in the UK and need to prove your immigration status, it is important to know what documents you may need and how to use them. This guide will explain the different ways you can prove your status, whether you are applying for a job, renting a home, or accessing services.

The Importance of Documents

Proving your immigration status in the UK is straightforward if you know how to do it.

UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) is phasing out physical documents in favour of online records, so it’s crucial to understand how to use physical and electronic documents during the transition period.

Whether you have a digital status, a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP), or other proof, make sure you understand how to use these documents in various situations.

Digital Immigration Status

The UK government is moving towards digital systems for proving immigration status, known as online immigration status. This transition is part of the UK’s digital immigration system, which replaces physical documents with an electronic eVisa. Many individuals will already hold an eVisa; if not, you should apply for an eVisa now, so that one is held in readiness of 1 January 2025, when the immigration system will be digital.

Here is how to evidence your digital immigration status:

  1. Online Proof: You can use the ‘View and Prove Your Immigration Status’ service on the UK government website. You will need your passport or biometric residence permit number and your date of birth. An access code will also be sent to your nominated mobile number or email address.
  2. Share Code: You can generate a share code from the website, which you can give to employers, landlords, or other organisations. They can use this code to check your status online.
  3. Screenshot: Organisations who do not need to verify your immigration status with the Home Office may be happy to receive a screenshot of your eVisa.

Online UKVI records must be kept up to date; eVisas must be connected to a passport from 1 January 2025, and if you update your passport or contact details in the future, this information must be recorded on your UKVI account.

Biometric Residence Permit

A BRP is a physical card that shows your immigration status. It includes your photograph and contains information about your right to live in the UK. It is important to check the expiry date of your BRP and take necessary action before it expires.

BRPs are being phased out; as mentioned above, those that hold a BRP should ensure they can access their eVisa before the digital immigration status is fully implemented on 1 January 2025.

At present, you can use your BRP to prove your identity, right to study, or right to any public services or benefits you’re entitled to in the following ways:

  1. In-person: Show your BRP when asked.
  2. Photocopies: Provide copies of your BRP if requested by organisations. However, they may still need to see the original.

Other Documents

Depending on your circumstances, you might have other documents that prove your immigration status, such as:

  1. Visa Stamp (vignette): If your passport has a visa stamp or sticker, it can be used to prove your status.
  2. Immigration Status Document: If you have an older immigration status document, it might still be valid for proving your status.

Although the above documents may still be valid, they will be replaced by eVisas; those that currently hold any of the above documents or a BRP should apply for an eVisa, as eVisas will be mandatory from 1 January 2025.

Using Your Status to Access Services

Here is how to use your immigration status in common scenarios:

  1. Employment: Employers will check your right to work before hiring you. You can provide a share code or present any other acceptable document that are specified on UKVI’s Right to Work Checklist.
  2. Renting a Home: Landlords will check your right to rent. You can provide a share code, or any other acceptable document.
  3. Healthcare: The NHS will likely make an enquiry to the Status Verification and Enquiries Checking (SVEC) service, who will then establish if you are entitled to free NHS care, or if you must be charged.
  4. Bank Accounts: Banks might need to verify your immigration status when you open a new account. Provide your BRP (until 31 December 2024) and/or eVisa.

As mentioned above, it is crucial to keep your personal details up to date in your UKVI account to ensure your immigration status and entitlements are accurately represented. For instance, if you change your name or address, or get a new passport, you must update these details via your online UKVI account.

Lost or Stolen Identity Documents

If your BRP or other immigration document is lost or stolen, report this to the police and the Home Office immediately. At present, you will need to apply for a replacement. The digital immigration system will mean that original documents cannot be lost or stolen, as all immigration status will be evidenced electronically via your own personal UKVI account.

During the transition to eVisas (and prior to January 2025), it is crucial to carry a physical document, such as a BRP or passport, to ensure smooth travel and compliance with immigration requirements. From 1 January 2025, only an eVisa will be required for travel; this must be connected to the passport you are travelling on.

Do I Need to Work With A Solicitor?

Securing UK immigration status – and evidencing it once held – can be confusing without professional support.

Immigration solicitors can significantly ease the immigration process and help immigrants navigate the legal challenges they may face. They provide essential support, ensuring that your rights are protected and legal matters are handled efficiently and effectively.

Whether dealing with visa applications, employment rights, housing issues, or any other legal concerns, the expertise of a solicitor can make a crucial difference in successfully establishing and maintaining life in the UK.