Updating an eVisa after a passport change on a UK talent visa

Global Talent visa holders who replace a passport should update their UKVI account and check their eVisa before travelling. The valid passport used for the journey must be added to the account, and carrier passenger information must match. Incorrect details can prevent boarding or cause delays at the UK border.[1][2]

Choose between an update and an error report

Use the account update service for a new passport, name, phone number, email or address. You can add another passport; where you hold several, check that the one used for this journey is linked.[1][2]

Use the eVisa error service when the digital record itself is wrong, for example the immigration status or name. Being able to view an eVisa but unable to generate a share code is another listed reporting case. Account updates cannot amend a visa or citizenship application.[1][3]

Check restrictions during an application or while abroad

GOV.UK states that you cannot change your name, passport or travel document through the account service while awaiting a visa decision. If an expiring passport overlaps with a pending application, ask UKVI how to proceed and separately check the travel restrictions attached to that application.[1]

Outside the UK, biometric passport holders can update their passport number, expiry date, name and nationality themselves. For a non-biometric passport, self-service is limited to the number and expiry date. Other changes require UKVI assistance and may involve providing biometrics at a visa application centre.[2]

Review the record before planning your return

Check the travel passport, the linked UKVI details, the status displayed in the eVisa and the carrier’s passenger information in sequence. Keep the identity details used to sign in, together with access to the account’s phone number or email.[1][2]

If additional evidence is requested, a travel share code is valid for 90 days and can be reused during that period. It supplements the evidence of status; travel still requires the valid passport added to the account.[2]

After updating, check the result in the account and eVisa. Anyone needing an extension must make the appropriate visa application separately: a passport update does not extend immigration permission.

Official sources

1. GOV.UK · Update your UKVI account details
2. GOV.UK · Travel with your eVisa
3. GOV.UK · Report an error with your eVisa

General policy information; individual circumstances and the competent authority’s requirements govern each application.