eVisas – What South Africans Need to Know

Jun 6, 2025 | Notices

eVisas are now compulsory for most foreign nationals.

As of 2 June 2025, the United Kingdom has fully transitioned to a digital immigration system, making the use of eVisas compulsory for most foreign nationals, including many South Africans. This change affects how travellers prove their right to enter or stay in the UK and replaces traditional physical documents such as Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) and Biometric Residence Cards (BRCs).

What Is an eVisa?

An eVisa is a digital record of a person’s UK immigration status. It shows the type of permission granted (e.g. work, study, settlement), along with the conditions and duration. Unlike physical documents, an eVisa cannot be lost, stolen, or damaged. It also simplifies the process of proving your right to work, rent, or access public services in the UK.

To access your eVisa, you must:

  • Create a UKVI account at www.gov.uk
  • Confirm your identity
  • Link your eVisa to your account and current passport

Who Needs it?

You must use an eVisa if:

  • You have a visa or permission to stay in the UK for more than 6 months
  • You have indefinite leave to remain or enter
  • You previously relied on a BRP or BRC
  • Even children must have their own UKVI accounts, managed by a parent or guardian.

What About South African Visitors?

If you are a South African citizen applying for a UK Visitor visa (valid for less than 6 months), you do not need an eVisa at this time.

Here’s what you need to know:

  • South Africans must still apply for a Visitor visa before entering the UK.
  • Once approved, you’ll receive a visa vignette (sticker) in your passport.
  • You must travel using the passport with the vignette, which border officials will check on arrival.
  • There is no need to create a UKVI account or use the eVisa system for a short-term visit. However, the UK government plans to eventually extend eVisas to all visa types, including visitors.

Important Travel Tips

For those with an eVisa:

  • Ensure your UKVI account is up to date and linked to your current passport.
  • Always travel with the linked passport.
  • Use the “View and Prove” service to check your details or generate a share code (valid for 90 days) for airlines and officials.
  • Report any errors via your UKVI account before travelling.

Need Help?

The UK Home Office has a video that shows How to Travel With Your eVisa – YouTube that explains more about the eVisa.

At Bridging the Gap Migration, we assist South Africans with all UK visa categories. Whether you need help setting up your UKVI account, transitioning to an eVisa, or confirming travel compliance, our experts are here to help.

Contact us today for professional, tailored support on navigating the UK’s new digital immigration system.