How to Keep Your UK eVisa and Share Codes Safe

The UK has moved from physical immigration documents to eVisas — an online record of your immigration status. Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) cards have been phased out. That changes what you need to look after: less a card in a drawer, more an online account, a passport and the share codes you hand out.

What an eVisa is, and what you need to keep safe

Your eVisa lives in your UKVI account. Employers, landlords and others check it online using a share code you generate, together with your date of birth. So the things to protect are:

• access to your UKVI account (the email address and phone number linked to it),
• the passport or ID document linked to your eVisa, and
• the share codes you give out, and who you gave them to.

Step 1: Keep your UKVI account details current

When you renew your passport, update it in your UKVI account; if the linked document is out of date, you can run into problems when travelling. Keep the email address and phone number on the account ones you'll still have access to next year. Check the latest guidance on GOV.UK, as the rules for eVisas are still being updated.

Step 2: Keep copies of the documents behind your status

An eVisa doesn't replace your own records. Keep copies of your passport photo page, your decision letters, any old BRP, your National Insurance number letter, and your tenancy and employment documents — you'll want them for future applications such as settlement.

Storing them in IDBANKQR.COM

1. Log in and open Add New ID.
2. Set Country to United Kingdom (usually filled in from your location).
3. Pick from the UK document list — UK Passport, eVisa / Share Code, Biometric Residence Permit (BRP), National Insurance Number Letter, Driving Licence, and more.
4. Upload a scan or PDF, and add the expiry date where there is one, so you get reminders.

Don't store your UKVI password in a document. Use a password manager for that.

Step 3: Treat share codes as short-lived

A share code is valid for a limited time (for right-to-work and right-to-rent checks, 90 days). Generate a new one for each check rather than reusing an old one, and note who you gave it to and why. That way you always know who has looked at your status.

Step 4: Share supporting documents the safe way

When a landlord or employer also wants copies of your passport or letters, send them with a QR code that expires and View only access, rather than as email attachments that stay in their inbox for years.

Quick checklist

• Keep your UKVI account email, phone and passport details up to date.
• Keep secure copies of your passport, decision letters and old BRP.
• Generate a fresh share code for each check, and note who you gave it to.
• Share supporting documents with expiring, view-only access.