# What is a UK eVisa and how do students use it?

> An eVisa is your online UK immigration status, replacing the BRP card and accessed via UKVI.

The UK has moved to a digital immigration system: an eVisa is your online record of immigration status, accessed through your UKVI account, which is replacing the physical biometric residence permit (BRP) card. As a student you use your eVisa to prove your status and right to study, work and rent — generating a 'share code' to give to your university, employer or landlord. Set up your UKVI account and keep your contact and passport details up to date. Confirm the current process on GOV.UK.

## Quick facts
- **What it is:** Online immigration status (UKVI account)
- **Replaces:** The physical BRP card
- **Proving status:** Generate a share code
- **Source:** Confirm the current process on GOV.UK

## Key takeaways
- An eVisa is your online immigration status, accessed via your UKVI account.
- It is replacing the physical biometric residence permit (BRP) card.
- You prove your status with a 'share code' for universities, employers and landlords.
- Keep your UKVI account, passport and contact details up to date.

## From BRP card to eVisa
The UK has transitioned from physical biometric residence permit (BRP) cards to a digital eVisa — an online record of your immigration status held in your UKVI account. After your visa is granted you create or access this account, where your status, conditions and expiry are recorded. There is no card to carry or lose, but you must keep the account, your passport and your contact details current so your status can always be verified.

## Proving your status as a student
When your university enrols you, or an employer or landlord needs to check your right to work or rent, you generate a 'share code' from your UKVI account and give it to them, along with your date of birth, so they can verify your status online. Keep your login details safe and accessible, especially when travelling. Because the digital system continues to evolve, always follow the current GOV.UK guidance. Study UK Now helps you set up and use your eVisa correctly.

## Frequently asked questions
### What is a UK eVisa for students?
An eVisa is your UK immigration status held online in your UKVI account, replacing the physical BRP card. As a student you use it to prove your right to study, work and rent by generating a 'share code' for your university, employer or landlord. Set up your UKVI account and keep your details current — confirm the process on GOV.UK.

### Do international students still get a BRP card?
The UK is moving away from physical biometric residence permit (BRP) cards to the digital eVisa system, so most students now prove their status online through a UKVI account rather than with a card. Because the rollout has changed over time, always follow the current GOV.UK guidance on accessing your eVisa.

## Sources
- [GOV.UK — UK Visas and Immigration account and eVisa](https://www.gov.uk/evisa) — GOV.UK

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Verified: 2026-06-16