Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) and other physical documents such as Biometric Residence Cards (BRCs) are no longer accepted as valid proof of immigration status. Individuals must now use an eVisa, accessed through their UKVI account, to prove their status. From 1 January 2025, employers, landlords and government departments verify immigration status digitally. Expired BRPs, vignettes and passport stamps are not accepted for official checks.
BRPs were historically issued by the Home Office to confirm a person’s immigration status, including Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). They served as physical evidence of lawful residence and enabled holders to prove their right to work, rent and access public services. However, the Home Office has now transitioned to a digital-only system. Since 31 October 2024, successful NTL applicants receive an eVisa instead of a BRP. From 1 January 2025, eVisas are the standard and exclusive format for evidencing UK immigration status.
This guide explains the role BRPs previously played in confirming ILR, the implications of the move to eVisas, and what individuals must do to ensure their settled status is correctly recorded in the UKVI digital system. Whether you are replacing an expired BRP or confirming ILR held on older documents, this article outlines how to maintain proof of status under the current rules.
What is a No Time Limit (NTL) application?
A No Time Limit (NTL) application allows individuals with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or Indefinite Leave to Enter (ILE) to confirm their status through a digital immigration record, known as an eVisa. It is intended for those whose ILR or ILE is recorded on outdated documents, such as passport vignettes, expired BRPs or other physical formats.
Since 31 October 2024, NTL applicants no longer receive a BRP. Their status is stored digitally and accessed through a UKVI account. This forms part of the government’s transition to a digital-only system for immigration status, which is now in effect for all major purposes, including proving the right to work, rent or travel.
NTL applications are free and must be made from within the UK. Applicants must show that they already hold ILR or ILE and have not lost that status, for example by spending more than two continuous years outside the UK. They must also not be subject to immigration bail or enforcement action.
Although not legally required, an NTL application is strongly recommended for those with older forms of documentation. A digital status enables easier access to public services, employment and housing, and ensures immigration rights are recognised under current verification systems.
Who can make an NTL application?
Individuals with ILR or ILE are eligible to make an NTL application if they are physically present in the UK and have not lost their indefinite status. ILR or ILE lapses if the person has been outside the UK for more than two continuous years, unless one of the statutory exceptions applies. Individuals must also not be subject to any current enforcement action or conditions affecting their indefinite status.
Examples of when an NTL application is appropriate include:
- ILR or ILE is evidenced on an old-style document, such as a passport vignette
- Original documentation confirming status has been lost, stolen or expired
- The applicant was deemed settled before 1973 but lacks formal proof of status
- A change of name or identity requires an update to UKVI records
Each person must apply individually using a separate application. Dependent children under 18 may apply at the same time with supporting documentation. Adults aged 18 or over must apply in their own right.
People with limited leave to remain are not eligible for NTL. They must instead apply to transfer conditions. An exception applies where a person was granted temporary entry while the Home Office investigates ILR or ILE status.
Benefits of making an NTL application
Although not compulsory, the Home Office strongly encourages ILR or ILE holders with outdated or missing documentation to apply for NTL. Benefits include:
- eVisa replaces older documents with a secure, tamper-proof digital status
- Easier access to employment, housing and public services
- Employers, landlords and government departments can verify status instantly online
- Reduced risk of delays or refusals during legal right to work or rent checks
The eVisa is now the official and preferred format for proving immigration status in the UK. An NTL application ensures your ILR or ILE is accurately recorded in the Home Office digital system.
How to make an NTL application
NTL applications are submitted online via GOV.UK. The process involves:
- Completing the online application from within the UK
- Creating or accessing a UKVI account
- Uploading supporting documents
- Providing biometric information via a UKVCAS appointment
Applicants must provide photographic ID (e.g. a passport, expired BRP or national ID card) and, where available, evidence of their ILR or ILE. This may include a passport with an ILR vignette, a Home Office status letter, or an expired BRP. If documents have been lost, alternative evidence and a written explanation must be provided.
Where a name has changed, such as due to marriage, a deed poll or statutory declaration must be submitted.
Each applicant must attend a biometric appointment to confirm identity and allow integration into the digital system. Appointments are booked via UKVCAS.
How much is an NTL application?
NTL applications are free of charge. Since 6 April 2022, the Home Office does not charge a fee to confirm ILR or ILE via the NTL route.
What if you don’t have proof of indefinite leave?
Applicants may still apply even if physical evidence is missing. The Home Office conducts internal checks to verify ILR or ILE through historical records. Supporting information should include correspondence, immigration references or evidence of long-term residence.
If documents were lost or stolen, a police report or crime reference number should be provided. Individuals claiming settlement before 1973 must show continuous residence since that date. Where formal evidence is limited, the Home Office may exercise discretion if the claim is credible.
When is ILR or ILE lost?
ILR or ILE is lost if the holder has been outside the UK for more than two continuous years, subject to limited exceptions:
- Accompanying a member of HM Armed Forces
- Living overseas with a British citizen or settled person in permanent employment with the Foreign Office, Home Office or British Council
- Returning where leave to enter is not required
Where status is unclear, applicants must provide evidence of ongoing UK residence, such as tax records, utility bills, tenancy agreements or employer and healthcare letters.
How long do NTL applications take?
The Home Office aims to decide NTL applications within six months. Most are decided within six to eight weeks. Complex cases or missing documentation may result in delays.
Can you apply for citizenship without an NTL eVisa?
It is not mandatory to hold an NTL-issued eVisa to apply for British citizenship. However, an eVisa provides clear and preferred evidence of settled status. Applicants without a digital record must provide alternative proof of ILR or ILE, which may result in further checks or delays.
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FAQs
What is an NTL application?
An NTL (No Time Limit) application is the process used by individuals who already hold Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or Indefinite Leave to Enter (ILE) but do not have up-to-date proof of their status. A successful application results in a digital status (eVisa) accessible through a UKVI account.
Is an NTL application legally required?
An NTL application is not mandatory, but it is strongly recommended if your ILR or ILE is recorded only on a vignette, expired BRP or other physical document. A digital eVisa ensures your status is recorded in the UKVI system and easily accessible.
Do I still need to apply if I already have an eVisa?
No. If you already have a UKVI account and digital proof of your ILR or ILE, you do not need to apply again. Submitting an NTL application in this case may result in the application being void.
Can I include my children in my NTL application?
Each applicant must complete their own NTL application. However, dependent children under 18 can apply at the same time using separate forms. Each child’s eligibility is assessed individually.
Can I make an NTL application from outside the UK?
NTL applications must be made from within the UK. If you are overseas and believe you have lost your ILR or ILE, you may need to apply for a Returning Resident visa to re-enter the UK.
What documents do I need to apply for NTL?
You need a valid form of photographic ID (e.g. passport), and where available, proof of ILR or ILE (e.g. expired BRP, vignette, Home Office letter). If you have changed your name, evidence such as a deed poll or marriage certificate is also required.
What if I’ve lost all proof of my indefinite leave?
You can still apply. The Home Office will conduct internal checks to verify your status. You should provide as much supporting information as possible, such as old documents, references or evidence of long-term UK residence. If applicable, provide a police report for lost or stolen documents.
How do I access my eVisa after my NTL application is approved?
Your eVisa will be linked to your UKVI account. You can log in to view your status and generate share codes for employers, landlords or government agencies. Make sure your account is updated with your current passport details.
What happens if I was granted ILR before 1973 but never received documentation?
If you were settled in the UK on or before 1 January 1973 and have remained here continuously, you may be eligible. You will need to provide historical evidence of residence and identity. The Home Office may apply discretion where documentation is limited but your claim is credible.
How long does the NTL process take?
The Home Office aims to make a decision within six months, though most straightforward applications are decided within six to eight weeks. Delays can occur where further checks are needed or documents are missing.
Glossary
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| NTL Application | The process for confirming existing ILR or ILE through a digital immigration record known as an eVisa. |
| ILR | Indefinite Leave to Remain – permission to stay in the UK without time restrictions. |
| ILE | Indefinite Leave to Enter – permission to enter and stay in the UK indefinitely, usually granted overseas. |
| eVisa | A digital immigration status record issued by UKVI, replacing physical documents like BRPs and vignettes. |
| UKVI Account | An online account with UK Visas and Immigration used to view immigration status and generate share codes. |
| BRP | Biometric Residence Permit – a physical card no longer used to prove immigration status, now replaced by eVisas. |
| Vignette | A visa or ILR endorsement in a passport, typically issued before BRPs were introduced. |
| Share Code | A secure code generated from a UKVI account to prove status to employers, landlords or other third parties. |
| UKVCAS | UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services – the system used for biometric appointments and document upload. |
| Returning Resident | A visa route for individuals who previously held ILR or ILE but lost it due to long absence from the UK. |
| Common Travel Area (CTA) | A travel zone including the UK, Ireland, Isle of Man and Channel Islands. Some rules treat it as a single jurisdiction. |
Author
Founder and Managing Director Anne Morris is a fully qualified solicitor and trusted adviser to large corporates through to SMEs, providing strategic immigration and global mobility advice to support employers with UK operations to meet their workforce needs through corporate immigration.
She is recognised by Legal 500 and Chambers as a legal expert and delivers Board-level advice on business migration and compliance risk management as well as overseeing the firm’s development of new client propositions and delivery of cost and time efficient processing of applications.
Anne is an active public speaker, immigration commentator, and immigration policy contributor and regularly hosts training sessions for employers and HR professionals.
