UK Guide
UK immigration status is now heavily digital. The application still begins online, but identity proof may happen through the UK Immigration: ID Check app or at a visa application centre, and successful applicants need to understand their UKVI account and eVisa.
Most applicants complete the route-specific form online, pay the fee, pay the immigration health surcharge if required, then prove identity. UKVI processing time starts after you either verify identity and submit documents through the ID Check app, or attend a visa application centre to provide fingerprints and a photograph. Do not assume the clock starts when you first open the form.
The UK has moved from many physical immigration documents to eVisas. GOV.UK states that BRPs have expired and been replaced by eVisas, and UKVI stopped issuing visa vignette stickers to successful new applicants on 1 July 2026. Before travel, check that your UKVI account shows the correct permission and that your passport or travel document is linked.
A share code lets an employer, landlord or other checker confirm your immigration status online. Codes are generated from GOV.UK services and are time-limited. Keep access to your email, phone number and UKVI account secure because they are now part of proving your status in daily life.
Common questions
No. UKVI stopped issuing visa vignette stickers to successful new applicants on 1 July 2026 for visit visas and most other UK visa types. Applicants should check their eVisa in their UKVI account before travel.
A share code is a temporary code generated through GOV.UK that allows an employer, landlord or official checker to view your right to work, right to rent or immigration status.
For applications outside the UK, processing usually starts after you verify identity and submit through the ID Check app, or after your visa application centre appointment where you give biometrics.
