Electronic visa and status check

UK e-Visa share codes are valid for a limited period (usually 3 months). They are not permanent; a new code can be generated via the official UKVI portal whenever needed for subsequent trips or official requests.

For UK visa applications, the account created for the main UKVI portal (for filling out the application form) is separate from the account required for the eVisa application. You will need to create a new account specifically for the eVisa.

If a UK visa has already been issued and is physically in the passport ('vkleena v pasport'), creating a UKVI account for tracking or further uploads is usually not necessary. The physical visa serves as the primary confirmation.

After obtaining an electronic UK visa (e-visa), it needs to be linked to your gov.uk account. While often an automated process, users are advised to follow the instructions provided in the official email notification. This may involve installing a specific app or manually linking the visa through your account. Detailed guides might be available through search terms like 'link e-visa to gov.uk account'.

EU citizens residing in Russia do not require a visa for short-term trips to the UK. Instead, they must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), which typically takes 5-20 minutes to process.

When traveling to the UK, be prepared for 'share code' checks at various stages, including airline check-in and transit points. - **Presentation:** A screenshot of the share code on your mobile device is often sufficient. However, it's advisable to also be able to access it via a web browser in case direct online verification is requested. - **Connectivity:** Ensure you have reliable mobile internet access, as online verification might be required. - **Purpose:** The share code is a digital confirmation related to travel authorization or compliance with entry requirements.

As of February 25, 2026, EU citizens traveling to the UK are required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before their trip. Applications should be made through the official gov.uk website.

The UK is transitioning to an electronic visa system (eVisa). When a new visa is issued, it may supersede the view of the previous one in the UKVI portal. Travelers should always have a generated share code ready. Airline staff may request access to the digital status portal during check-in or at the gate. If a share code is expired or inaccessible, be prepared to demonstrate the active digital immigration status.

To enter the UK, citizens of visa-free countries must apply for an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation). If a valid UK visa is already held, an ETA is not required. For specific status inquiries (like 'laissez-passer'), travelers should use the official UK government website tool: 'UK do i need a visa'.

If your passport is expiring soon and you plan to travel to the UK with a new one, you can link your e-visa to the new passport. It is advisable to do this in advance to avoid complications. Linking it to the new passport offers more convenience and security for future travel.

Long-term visitor visas for the UK (2-10 years) are now issued as e-visas. Traditional vignettes (stickers in the passport) are no longer used for these visa types.

When checking in for a flight to the UK, airlines typically require the 'Share Code' of your visa, not the GWF number. This code is used by the airline to verify your right to travel to the UK. Ensure you have it ready and entered correctly without spaces when prompted.

For online check-in with a UK electronic visa, enter the 'share code' without spaces. It's advisable to have a printed copy of the share code for transit checks. Upon arrival in the UK, immigration officers can access your visa information using your passport. No additional app interaction is usually needed at UK immigration.

Gibraltar does not accept UK eVisas for entry. Prior to July 15, 2026, a separate Gibraltar Overseas Territory visa is required. Travelers planning to visit Gibraltar should verify current entry requirements with Gibraltar's immigration authorities, as policy is set to change after July 15, 2026.

UK e-visa registration is mandatory for entry but does not have a strict immediate deadline. It must be completed before travel. If the passport lookup fails, use the official UKVI support request form in the portal, attaching scans of the visa/vignette and passport to retrieve the correct reference number.