UKVI Login & Services Guide (2025): How to Register, Sign In and Get Support

If you’re applying for a UK visa, checking your immigration status, or managing sponsorship duties, chances are you’ll need to use the UKVI login system. This secure online gateway gives you access to UK Visas and Immigration services, from starting an application to updating your details or proving your right to work.

In this guide, we explain what UKVI is, how to create and log in to your account, the services you can access, and the common problems people face. We’ll also share real-life examples from clients in Manchester and explain when it may be helpful to get advice from an immigration solicitor.

What is UKVI and Why Does it Matter?

UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration) is part of the Home Office. It is responsible for managing the UK’s immigration system, processing visa applications, and enforcing compliance.

Some of the main services UKVI provides include:

• Visa applications for work, family, study, or visits
• Settlement and citizenship applications, including ILR
• Digital immigration status (eVisa) to replace Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs)
• Sponsor licences for employers and universities
• Compliance checks to ensure immigration laws are followed

For individuals, UKVI is the gateway to entering or staying in the UK. For businesses and education providers, it is the system that allows them to employ or enrol overseas nationals legally.

What is a UKVI Account?

A UKVI account is your secure online profile that allows you to interact with immigration services. It is sometimes referred to as a GOV.UK account, since most UKVI services use the government’s central login system.

There are different types of accounts depending on who you are:

Individual Accounts

For visa applicants, migrants, and their dependants. You can:

• Apply for visas and track applications
• Access your eVisa through the “View and Prove” service
• Update your passport or contact details
• Prove your status to employers or landlords

Organisational Accounts

For employers, universities, and other sponsors. These accounts are used to access the Sponsor Management System (SMS), where you can:

• Assign Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS)
• Issue Confirmations of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
• Report changes in worker or student circumstances

Legal Representative Accounts

Immigration solicitors and OISC-regulated advisers may use representative accounts to manage applications and correspondence on behalf of clients.

How to Register for a UKVI Account

Registering for an account is straightforward, but it’s important to set it up correctly.

Step by step Registration

1. Go to the official GOV.UK login page
2. Select “Register” if you don’t already have an account
3. Choose the correct type of account (individual or organisation)
4. Enter your details (name, date of birth, nationality, email) or business details for sponsors
5. Create a secure password
6. Verify your email address by clicking the link sent to your inbox

Once completed, your account will be active, and you can start applications or access your immigration status.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using multiple email addresses (stick to one long-term email)
• Entering passport details incorrectly (can delay processing)
• Creating duplicate accounts (causes confusion with applications)
• Forgetting to update passport details after renewal

How to Log in to Your UKVI Account

Once registered, logging in is simple:

1. Go to the GOV.UK login page
2. Enter your registered email address and password
3. Complete two-factor authentication if prompted (code sent by SMS or email)

What to Do if You Forget Your Login Details

• Forgot password? Use the reset link on the login page
• Forgot email? Search your inbox for GOV.UK or UKVI emails. If you still can’t recover it, you may need to create a new account or contact UKVI support

Security Tips

• Always enable two-factor authentication (2FA)
• Avoid logging in on public Wi-Fi
• Never share your login details with others
• Log out if using a shared device

UKVI Services Available via Login

Once logged in, you’ll have access to a range of immigration services.

1. Apply for a UK Visa

You can apply for:

• • Work visas (Skilled Worker, Scale-up, Global Talent)
  • Family visas (spouse, partner, parent)
  • Student visas

• Visitor visas

• Settlement and citizenship applications

2. Track Applications

Your account allows you to monitor the progress of your application, including biometric enrolment, decision updates, and document delivery.

3. Access Your eVisa (Digital Immigration Status)

The UK is phasing out BRPs and replacing them with digital eVisas. Through your account, you can:

• View your visa type and expiry date
• Prove your status to employers or landlords
• Update passport details to avoid problems at the border

4. Manage a Sponsor Licence

Employers and education providers can log in to the Sponsor Management System (SMS) to:

• Assign CoS or CAS
• Report changes in employment or studies
• Renew sponsorship licences

5. Update Details

You must keep your immigration record accurate by updating your:

• Passport details
• Address and contact information
• Name changes or family circumstances

Failing to update records can cause problems with travel, NHS access, or future applications.

Rules and User Responsibilities

When using your UKVI account, you must follow the Home Office terms of use.

• Provide accurate information in all applications
• Never share your login details unless authorised (e.g. organisational Level 1/2 users)
• Only use the account for legal and genuine purposes
• Keep your data up to date

If you provide false information or misuse the system, you could face visa refusals, fines, or even prosecution.

Common UKVI Issues

As immigration solicitors in Manchester, we regularly see clients facing challenges with their UKVI accounts. Some recent cases include:

• Passport not linked to eVisa: A client renewed their passport but forgot to update their UKVI record. They faced delays at the airport until this was corrected.
• Delays in ILR applications: A Manchester resident applying for ILR experienced months of waiting due to missing contact details in their account.
• Life in the UK test results not updating: One client’s Life in the UK test results were not linked to their UKVI profile, causing delays in their citizenship application.
• Sponsors locked out of SMS: A local business could not issue Certificates of Sponsorship because their Level 1 user had left, and access had not been updated.

Need Help with Your UKVI Account?

Not everyone finds the UKVI system easy to use. If you are experiencing delays, have been refused, or simply want reassurance that your application is being handled correctly, legal advice can make all the difference.

Our team of immigration solicitors in Manchester can help with:

• Visa applications and appeals
• ILR and settlement applications
• Updating your eVisa or BRP records
• Sponsor licence compliance
• Contacting UKVI if your account is blocked

Speak to a Solicitor in Manchester Today

Call 0161 464 4140 or Book an Appointment Online for tailored immigration advice and support with your UKVI login or visa application.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the UKVI login used for? 

It gives you access to immigration services such as visa applications, checking your eVisa, and managing sponsor licences.

Do I need a UKVI account to apply for a visa? 

Yes, all online visa applications require a UKVI account.

How do I check my eVisa online? 

You can log in to the “View and Prove” service to see your immigration status and share it with employers or landlords.

What if I can’t access my UKVI account? 

Use the password reset option or contact UKVI support. A solicitor can also assist if you are facing delays.

Can a solicitor manage my UKVI account for me? 

Yes, authorised representatives such as solicitors can manage applications and correspondence on your behalf.