Apply for an EU Settlement Scheme travel permit to return to the UK

An EU Settlement Scheme travel permit is a way to enter the UK if:

  • you have status under the EU Settlement Scheme
  • you cannot access your UKVI account or update it so your current passport or travel document is linked to your eVisa

You can use the travel permit, along with a valid passport, to travel to and from the UK until the permit expires.

Who can get an EU Settlement Scheme travel permit

You can only apply for the travel permit if all of the following are true:

  • you’re not a British citizen
  • you have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme
  • you’re outside the UK when you apply
  • you’re planning to travel to the UK within 6 months of applying for the travel permit

What you can do

The permit lets you enter the UK as many times as you want until it expires.

It lasts for 6 months from the decision date on your travel permit application.

How much it costs

The travel permit is free.

What you need to apply

You’ll need:

  • a valid passport
  • the unique application number (UAN) confirming your settled or pre-settled status

The UAN is a 16-digit number, in the format ‘1234-1234-1234-1234’. It’s in the email confirming your settled or pre-settled status.

If you used to have a biometric residence card (BRC) but it’s been lost or stolen, you must report it to the Home Office.

Apply for the permit

Start now

How long it takes to get a decision

When you apply, you’ll be asked to make an appointment at a visa application centre. You’ll usually get a decision within 3 weeks of the appointment.

When you’re back in the UK

Before you travel again, you’ll need to sign in to your UKVI account to check that your eVisa is linked to your current passport or travel document. You’ll still need to carry your current passport or travel document with you.

To prove your status when you’re in the UK, for example to show an employer, you can use the online service to get a ‘share code’.

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