If you’re living in or planning to stay in the United Kingdom, knowing your immigration status is essential. Whether you’re a student, worker, family member, or asylum seeker, your status determines what you can and cannot do in the UK. In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about how to check your immigration status in the UK, using simple language that anyone can understand — even children or people new to the UK immigration system.
What is Immigration Status?
Immigration status refers to the legal condition under which a person is allowed to live, work, study, or stay in the UK. It tells you what rights you have and how long you can remain in the country. Your immigration status is recorded by the UK Home Office, the government department responsible for immigration, security, and law and order.
Common Types of Immigration Status in the UK
| Immigration Status Type | Description |
|---|---|
| British Citizen | Full rights to live and work in the UK permanently. |
| Settled Status (Indefinite Leave to Remain) | Permanent right to stay in the UK without time limit. |
| Pre-settled Status | Temporary right to stay, usually given before applying for settled status. |
| Student Visa | For people studying in the UK. |
| Skilled Worker Visa | For professionals with job offers from UK companies. |
| Visitor Visa | For short-term visits, tourism, or family visits. |
| Asylum Seeker or Refugee | People fleeing danger or persecution in their home country. |
Why is It Important to Check My Immigration Status?
Knowing your immigration status helps you:
- Understand your legal rights in the UK.
- Know how long you can stay.
- Find out if you can work, study, or claim public funds.
- Make sure your records with the Home Office are up to date.
- Avoid breaking immigration laws, which could lead to fines or deportation.
How to Check My Immigration Status in the UK
You can check your immigration status in the UK through several official methods. Each method depends on how you entered the UK and what kind of immigration documents you have.
1. Using the UK Government’s Online Immigration Status Service
Best for: Most people with digital immigration status (also known as an eVisa), such as EU Settlement Scheme applicants or visa holders.
Steps:
- Visit the official UK government website: https://www.gov.uk/view-prove-immigration-status
- Click on Start now.
- Enter your identity document details (e.g., passport or biometric residence card).
- Enter your date of birth.
- A code will be sent to your mobile or email. Enter this code to verify your identity.
- View your immigration status, including:
- The type of status you have.
- The start and expiry date of your visa.
- Conditions attached (e.g., work or study permission).
- How to share your status with employers, landlords, or schools.
Note: This method only works if your immigration status is linked to your passport or BRP (Biometric Residence Permit).
2. Using Your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)
Best for: Non-UK citizens granted visas who were issued a physical BRP card.
Your BRP shows:
- Your name and date of birth.
- Your immigration status.
- Visa start and end date.
- What you can and cannot do (e.g., “no recourse to public funds”).
To check your status:
- Look at your BRP card.
- Match the details with the visa you applied for.
- Visit the online status checker to confirm the digital record matches your physical card.
3. Checking via the Home Office Directly
If you cannot use the online service or lost access to your BRP or passport, you can contact the Home Office.
How to contact:
- Call the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) helpline: 0300 790 6268.
- Use the online contact form on https://www.gov.uk/contact-ukvi-inside-outside-uk.
Make sure you have:
- Your full name.
- Date of birth.
- Passport number or Home Office reference number.
- A detailed explanation of your situation.
4. Asking for a Subject Access Request (SAR)
If you want to see all the personal information the Home Office has about you, you can submit a Subject Access Request under data protection law.
To make a SAR:
- Go to: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/request-your-personal-information-from-the-home-office
- Fill out the online form.
- Provide a copy of your ID and proof of address.
Timeframe: It can take up to 30 days to receive your full record.
How Can I Share My Immigration Status?
If an employer, landlord, school, or public service provider asks for proof of your immigration status, you can share it using a ‘share code’.
Steps:
- Go to: https://www.gov.uk/prove-right-to-work or https://www.gov.uk/prove-right-to-rent.
- Click Start now.
- Enter your passport or ID number and date of birth.
- Choose what kind of share code you need (e.g., for work or rent).
- A unique code will be generated.
- Give this code to the person or organisation needing it.
What if I Find a Mistake in My Immigration Record?
Mistakes can happen. If you find wrong information when you check your immigration status, you must contact the Home Office as soon as possible.
Common issues include:
- Wrong visa expiry date.
- Wrong conditions (e.g., saying you can’t work when you can).
- Incorrect personal details.
To fix it:
- Contact UKVI using the online form.
- Provide evidence of the correct details (passport, visa approval letter, etc.).
- Follow up until the issue is resolved.
What If I Can’t Access My Status?
Sometimes, you may face problems like:
- Lost BRP.
- Changed phone number or email used during application.
- Expired passport.
In such cases:
- Apply for a replacement BRP if lost or stolen.
- Update your contact details on the UKVI website.
- Seek help from an immigration adviser if you’re unable to access your records.
Can I Check My Immigration Status for Someone Else?
Yes, but only with their permission. You’ll need:
- Their share code.
- Their date of birth.
You cannot access someone else’s information without their consent. Always respect privacy laws.
Tips to Keep Your Immigration Status Safe
- Keep your BRP and passport in a safe place.
- Make copies or take photos of all immigration documents.
- Update your contact details with the Home Office if they change.
- Regularly check your status online, especially before travel or applying for jobs or benefits.
Conclusion
How to check my immigration status in the UK is a question many people ask — and thankfully, there are simple ways to do it. Whether online, through your BRP, or by contacting the Home Office, you can easily confirm your status and understand your rights.
By staying informed and regularly checking your records, you’ll avoid common problems and make sure you’re following UK immigration laws. This guide has outlined everything you need to know in a clear, step-by-step manner. Always use official UK government resources for the most up-to-date and accurate information.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is checking my immigration status free?
Yes, using the online service or contacting UKVI is free of charge.
2. Do I need a lawyer to check my status?
No. Most people can check their immigration status on their own. However, a lawyer can help if your case is complicated.
3. How often should I check my status?
It’s a good idea to check every few months or whenever something changes — like a visa renewal or personal detail update.
4. What if I’m overstaying my visa?
Contact an immigration adviser immediately. Staying in the UK without legal permission can have serious consequences.
By following this guide, you can take full control of your stay in the UK and ensure that you comply with all legal requirements. Now you know exactly how to check your immigration status in the UK — with clarity, confidence, and ease.