Immigration | How to obtain an eVisa if settling in the UK

Dear Mr Bassie,

I would like to know whether or not I should get an eVisa to settle in the United Kingdom. Thanks in advance.

– G. R.

Dear G. R.,

Persons can choose whether to get an eVisa if they have physical proof of their immigration status, such as a wet ink stamp or vignette (sticker) that has no expiry date and proves that the holder has settlement in the United Kingdom (UK) – also known as indefinite leave to remain (ILR) or indefinite leave to enter (ILE).

It should be noted that if persons get an eVisa then they will have a digital record to prove their identity and immigration status. Please be aware that obtaining an eVisa will not change one’s immigration status. They will still be able to use their physical document.

To obtain an eVisa, persons will need to make a free ‘no time limit’ (NTL) application. Persons should not make an NTL application if they have another type of evidence of their settled status in the UK, for example, an expired biometric residence permit (BRP) or status under the EU Settlement Scheme.

Make an NTL application

To make an NTL application, persons will need a phone number and email address that they can use each time they sign in and the passport or travel document they used when they last entered the UK.

If they possess one, they will also need to show the physical document that proves that they have settlement. Persons will need a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account to access their eVisa. Please note that persons will need to create a UKVI account either at the start of their NTL application – if they have a valid passport, or when their NTL application is approved – if they do not hold a valid passport

After applying

Persons will need to have their fingerprints and photo (biometric information) taken at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service point. They will also be asked to provide supporting documents. Applicants will be told what they need at the end of their application.

At this point, applicants may either upload the documents into the UKVCAS online service or pay to have them scanned at their UKVCAS appointment. Please be aware that it can take up to six months to process an NTL application. However, the applicant can continue to use their physical immigration document while their application is processed.

Just for completeness, please note that applicants may use webchat to ask about their eVisa or UKVI account, and watch eVisa support videos.

I hope this helps.

John S. Bassie is a barrister/attorney-at-law who practises law in Jamaica. He is a justice of the peace, a Supreme Court appointed mediator, a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, a Chartered Arbitrator, the past Global President of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators and a member of the Immigration Law Practitioners Association (UK). Email: lawbassie@yahoo.com