eVisa and biometrics

New students

You must create a UKVI account to get access to your Student eVisa before travelling.

If you used the 'UK Immigration: ID Check' app as part of your visa application, you will already have an eVisa. Sign into the View and Prove service to view your eVisa.

eVisa setup

If you did not use the 'UK Immigration: ID Check' app as part of your visa application, you will need to create an online account in order to access your eVisa. You will need:

• a phone number and email address that you can use again as you will use them each time you prove your immigration status online
• your visa application number - this is a global web form (GWF) number or unique application number (UAN)
• a valid passport

Watch the instructions in this video.

Download the UK Immigration ID Check app (Android or Apple).

Go to this Gov.uk page and scroll down to 'Start now'.

Answer the questions as they come up.

You will be instructed to scan your passport via the app. If you can't use the app for any reason, watch this video and follow the instructions. Instead, you will be able to complete all the necessary tasks on your laptop or phone by uploading a copy of your passport, taking a selfie style photo and a scan of your face.

You must complete all sections after the app to complete the account set up.

Wait for an email to confirm that your eVisa is ready to view.

Contact international student advice if you need help at any stage.

An eVisa is a digital immigration status which provides proof of your visa and allows organisations such as employers, landlords and universities, to check and verify your immigration status to assess your right to access those services. In most cases, an eVisa will be the only evidence you have of your permission to be in the UK.

Since the end of December 2024 this online status has replaced any physical evidence of a visa such as a BRP card or stamp in your passport.

Keeping your ID documents safe

In the UK it is not a requirement to carry your immigration documents with you. Unless you need to have them with you for a particular reason, we recommend keeping them in a safe place at your residence to reduce the risk of loss or theft. An alternative for a proof of age card is the PASS Scheme. The card will act as a valid proof of age card and is much easier to replace than a passport or driving license, if lost. For further information and to apply for one of these cards, please visit the PASS Scheme website.

When (and how) do I submit my biometrics?

With every visa application, the home office will verify your biometrics data. You may be asked to provide new biometrics at a TLScontact centre or scan expired BRP card using the UKVI app. This will be specified in your application.

How do I provide biometrics at a TLScontact centre?

During your visa application process, you will have the option to choose a TLScontact centre where you can provide your biometrics. TLScontact centres across the UK:

The nearest centre is within a walking distance from Solent University. A full list of centres can be found here.

What you need to know about your appointment:

• You need to print or show your biometric invitation letter from TLScontact when you attend your pre-booked appointment.
• Make sure you arrive 10 minutes before your scheduled time, as late arrival will require you to book another appointment.
• They will capture your biometrics by taking your photograph, fingerprints and digital signature.
• All information is then sent securely to UKVI.

At your appointment at a TLScontact centre, you will provide your biometrics and confirm your identify using your original passport.

There is also an option to scan your original documents requested in your visa application. Following your appointment, you will be able to leave the service point with all your original documents (and passport) and await a decision pending the application method you have chosen.

Should you leave the UK while your visa application is pending, your application will be cancelled, and you may not be allowed entry back to the UK.

Please remember that you must submit your biometrics before the deadline stated in your visa application. Failure to provide your biometrics will result in visa rejection. You can still travel within UK common travel area, including Scotland, Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland, Wales and the Channel Islands.

How do I provide biometrics using the UKVI app?

The UK immigration: ID check app lets you use your excising BRP card to complete the identity verification. You will need to scan your BRP card or the cover of your biometric passport. We recommend removing your phone case. If your phone does not support the NFC reader, it is safe to use your friends’ phone to complete that step.

What if I am applying for the super priority service in person?

If you are making a visa application in person, your biometric data will be taken on the day.