Student Residence Permit & Extensions
Your step-by-step guide to applying for or renewing your student residence permit, BRP card, and eVisa after arriving in the UK.
BIOMETRIC RESIDENCE PERMIT & eVISA
Name: SAMPLE STUDENT
DOB: 01/01/2000
Permit: STUDENT
Expires: 31/12/2024
View Status: gov.uk/view-prove-immigration-status
Status: Student
University: University of Sample
Share Code: XYZ-123-ABC
The UK is transitioning from physical BRP cards to a fully digital eVisa system by the end of 2025
Student Immigration Status in the UK
Unlike many countries, the UK is transitioning from physical residence permits to a digital immigration system. As an international student, understanding how this affects your legal stay in the UK is essential for maintaining your status and accessing services throughout your studies.
The UK's immigration system for students is primarily centered around the Student visa (formerly Tier 4) which grants you the right to live, study, and in some cases work part-time in the UK. While traditionally evidenced through a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) card, the UK is now moving to an electronic immigration status called an 'eVisa' system.
BRP Cards & eVisas
Physical plastic card with your photo and biometrics
Most BRPs expired on 31 December 2024 (being phased out)
Can still be used for travel until June 2025
Digital record of your immigration status
Accessed through your UKVI online account
Used to generate share codes to prove status
Key Status Documents
Passport with Vignette
Your initial entry clearance visa sticker in your passport, valid for 90 days to enter the UK. Used to collect your BRP upon arrival.
BRP Card
Physical card containing your biometric information issued upon arrival in the UK. Most BRPs expired on 31 December 2024 but your actual immigration permission may last longer.
eVisa / UKVI Account
Digital record of your immigration status, accessed through your online UKVI account at gov.uk/view-prove-immigration-status. Required for all students after BRP expiry.
Important Changes in 2025
December 2024: Most BRP cards have expired. Students must create a UKVI account to access their eVisa to prove their immigration status.
Until June 2025: Expired BRPs can still be used for re-entry to the UK alongside a valid passport if your underlying immigration permission is still valid.
After October 2024: New applicants will no longer receive physical BRP cards. Only eVisas will be issued.
Create Your UKVI Account
- Right to Work: Generate a share code for employers at gov.uk/view-prove-immigration-status
- Right to Rent: Generate a share code for landlords through the same portal
- Travel: Link your current passport to your UKVI account before traveling
- Banking: Banks will require proof of immigration status via share code or BRP
BRP Cards & eVisa System
The UK government is transitioning from physical Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) cards to a fully digital immigration system using eVisas. This significant change affects how you access, manage, and prove your immigration status during your studies in the UK.
What is a BRP card?
A Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) is a physical card containing your photo, biometric information (fingerprints and facial image), and details of your immigration permission in the UK. It has traditionally been used as evidence of your right to study, work (where permitted), and access services in the UK.
Information Contained
Your BRP contains your name, date of birth, place of birth, biometric information, immigration status and conditions, and the valid dates of your permission to stay in the UK.
BRP Expiry
Most BRPs were issued with an expiry date of 31 December 2024, regardless of how long your actual immigration permission lasts. This doesn't mean your permission to stay has ended—just that you need to use your eVisa instead of your BRP.
Valid Until June 2025 for Travel
You can still use your expired BRP alongside your passport for travel to the UK until 1 June 2025, as long as your actual immigration permission remains valid. After this date, you'll need to use your eVisa for all purposes.
Keep Your BRP
Even though BRPs are being phased out, you should keep your card for your records. It may be helpful for future applications and as a backup during the transition period.
What is an eVisa?
An eVisa is a digital record of your immigration status in the UK, accessed through your UKVI online account. It replaces the physical BRP card and will be the primary way to prove your immigration status for all purposes, including travel, work rights, and accessing services.
Creating Your UKVI Account
You must create a UKVI account to access your eVisa. Use your BRP number or visa application number, along with your valid passport, to set up your account at gov.uk/view-prove-immigration-status.
What You Can Do
Your UKVI account allows you to: view your immigration status details, update your personal information (including passport details), generate share codes for employers and landlords, and check your right to work and study in the UK.
Share Codes
Generate limited-time share codes (valid for 90 days) from your account for employers (right to work), landlords (right to rent), or other services to verify your status. These codes protect your privacy by sharing only the necessary information.
Keep Information Updated
It's crucial to keep your UKVI account information current, especially if you get a new passport or change your contact details. Outdated information could prevent you from proving your status or re-entering the UK.
Creating Your UKVI Account
Visit the official UKVI website
Go to gov.uk/view-prove-immigration-status and click on "Start now" to begin the process.
Gather your documents
You'll need either:
- Your BRP number and current passport, or
- Your visa application number (GWF or UAN) and current passport
Download the ID Check app
Use the "UK Immigration: ID Check" app to verify your identity by scanning your document and your face.
Create your account
Register with an email address and phone number. You'll need to verify both with security codes.
Access your eVisa
Once your account is created, you can view your immigration status details and generate share codes.
Updating Your Passport
Common Issues & Solutions
Can't see your eVisa details
It can take 2-3 days for your eVisa to appear after creating your account. If it doesn't appear after this time, report the error using the "Report an issue with your eVisa" service on GOV.UK.
Lost access to your account
If you forget your password or lose access to your account, use the "Recover your account" option. You'll need access to the phone number and email address used to create your account.
Incorrect information on your eVisa
If any details on your eVisa are incorrect (e.g., name, immigration status, expiry date), report the error immediately using the online reporting service. Also inform your university's international student office.
Getting Help
If you need assistance with your UKVI account or eVisa, you can:
- Contact the UKVI Resolution Centre at +44 (0)300 790 6268, Monday to Friday, 8am to 8:30pm, and weekends 9:30am to 4:30pm.
- Use the UKVI webchat service through your account.
- Seek advice from your university's international student office.
- For accessibility issues, the Home Office provides an Assisted Digital service for those who struggle with technology.
Important: BRP Cards After 1 June 2025
Extending Your Student Visa
If you need to extend your stay in the UK to complete your studies or pursue further education, you'll need to apply for a Student visa extension. Understanding the process, requirements, and timing is crucial for maintaining your legal status in the UK.
Graduate Route Visa
The Graduate Route offers international students who have completed their degree in the UK an opportunity to stay and work, or look for work, for 2 years after graduation (3 years for PhD graduates). This route provides valuable work experience before returning home or applying for other UK visas.
Duration
2 years for undergraduate and master's graduates; 3 years for PhD graduates. The visa is non-extendable.
Work Rights
Unrestricted work rights with no sponsorship required. You can work in most jobs, be self-employed, or start a business.
Application Timing
Apply after your education provider has confirmed your successful completion to the Home Office and while your Student visa is still valid.
Successfully Completed Your Course
You must have completed and been awarded a UK bachelor's degree, master's degree, PhD, or other eligible qualification from an approved UK higher education provider.
Study in the UK
You must have studied in the UK with a valid Student visa for the minimum study period required for your course (typically the full duration). Some COVID-19 concessions may apply for remote study.
Valid Student Visa
You must have a valid Student visa at the time of applying and must apply from within the UK.
Sponsoring Institution
Your institution must be a licensed Student sponsor at the time you apply and have a track record of compliance with UK immigration requirements.
Application Fee & IHS
You'll need to pay the application fee (£715) and the Immigration Health Surcharge (£1,035 per year) to access the UK's National Health Service.
Confirmation from Institution
Your education provider must notify the Home Office that you've successfully completed your course before you apply. Check with your international student office to confirm this has been done.
Confirm Your Eligibility
Check with your university's international office that they've reported your course completion to the Home Office. This is essential before you can apply.
Online Application
Apply online at gov.uk/graduate-visa while your Student visa is still valid. You'll need to create or log in to your account.
Pay Fees
Pay the application fee (£715) and the Immigration Health Surcharge (£1,035 per year) during the application process.
Biometrics & ID Verification
Use the 'UK Immigration: ID Check' app to verify your identity and upload a photo. If unable to use the app, you may need to book a biometric appointment at a UKVCAS center.
Wait for Decision
Most decisions are made within a few weeks. You can remain in the UK while waiting for a decision, even if your Student visa expires during this time.
Access eVisa
If approved, you'll receive an email confirmation. Access your eVisa through your UKVI account and use share codes to prove your right to work to employers.
- Work Flexibility: No sponsorship required, allowing you to work in any job, be self-employed, or freelance
- Career Development: Gain valuable UK work experience to enhance your global employability
- Pathway to Other Visas: Can help you qualify for other work visas, like the Skilled Worker route
- Bring Dependants: Your existing dependants can apply to extend their stay
- UK Healthcare Access: Continued access to the NHS after paying the Immigration Health Surcharge
- Non-Extendable: The visa cannot be extended beyond the initial 2-3 year period
- No Time Towards Settlement: Time spent on this visa doesn't count towards the 5-year residence period for settlement
- No New Dependants: You cannot bring new dependants to the UK on this visa (only extend existing ones)
- Application Window: You must apply before your Student visa expires and while in the UK
- One-Time Use: You can only use this route once, even if you complete multiple UK qualifications
Transitioning to a Skilled Worker Visa
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to some of the most common questions about UK residence permits, BRP cards, eVisas, and immigration status for international students.
Official Resources & Useful Links
Access these official resources and helpful links to get accurate, up-to-date information and assistance with your UK residence permit, visa extension, and immigration matters.
BRP Information (GOV.UK)
Official government guidance on Biometric Residence Permits, including application, collection, and replacement procedures.
View and Prove Your Immigration Status (GOV.UK)
How to access and share your digital immigration status (eVisa) with others, such as employers or landlords.
Student Visa (GOV.UK)
Comprehensive information about the Student visa route, including eligibility, application process, and visa conditions.
Graduate Route (GOV.UK)
Official guidance on the Graduate Route visa for international students who have completed their UK degree.
UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA)
The UK's national advisory body serving the interests of international students, with comprehensive immigration advice.
British Council - Study in the UK
Information and guidance for international students studying in the UK, including immigration matters.
Immigration Law Practitioners' Association (ILPA)
Directory of qualified immigration advisors and solicitors if you need professional legal assistance.
Find an Immigration Adviser (GOV.UK)
Search for registered immigration advisers who can provide professional advice on UK immigration matters.
Stay Updated with Immigration Changes
Need help with your UK residence permit or visa extension?
Qogent's advisors can help ensure you comply with all UK immigration requirements and assist with your applications.
Talk to an Advisor