Documentation Problems

What this means

A documentation problem is usually a proof problem, not a status problem. Your leave may be entirely valid while you have no way of showing it.

Many people face problems proving their immigration status because of lost documents, transitional situations, or gaps in historical records. These issues can prevent you from working, renting accommodation, accessing healthcare, or travelling. There are solutions to obtain the documentation you need to prove your lawful status.

We do not handle documentation cases directly. We work with specialist advisers who are experts in obtaining replacement immigration documents, proving status, and retrieving historical records. We will assess your documentation needs and connect you with the right specialist.

Common documentation issues

Four problems, each with a different process behind it.

What happens next

Replacing a lost or damaged BRP.

eVisa and digital status

From 2024, many immigration statuses are digital rather than physical BRP cards.

• View and Prove service

  An online portal where you can view your status and generate share codes for employers and landlords.

• Share codes

  90-day codes you give to third parties so they can check your immigration status.

• UKVI account

  Access your immigration status online, 24 hours a day, through your UKVI account.

• Status letter

  You can request a Home Office letter if an employer or landlord is unfamiliar with the digital system.

Historical immigration records

You may need historical records for a settlement application, to prove continuous residence, or for a visa application.

• Subject Access Request (SAR)

  Request all immigration records the Home Office holds on you. Free, but takes 30 to 40 days.

• Travel history

  Request records of entry and exit stamps and other immigration interactions.

• Old visa copies

  Obtain copies of previous visa grants or refusals.

• Passport records

  If old passports have been lost, a SAR can provide a record of the visas they contained.

• Alternative evidence

  Bank statements, P60s, council tax bills and NHS records can supplement immigration documents.

Windrush generation and no documentation

If you, or your parents or grandparents, came to the UK before 1973, particularly from Commonwealth countries, and never had formal immigration documents.

• Right to be here: you may have indefinite leave to remain or right of abode even without documents.
• Windrush Scheme: free specialist support and documentation for those affected by Windrush issues.
• Compensation available: you may be entitled to compensation if you suffered losses because of documentation issues.
• Evidence gathering: school records, employment history and medical records can prove long residence.

When you need documentation help

The moments where the absence of a document becomes an immediate problem.

• Starting a new job: your employer needs proof of your right to work but you do not have valid documents.
• Renting property: your landlord requires immigration documents for a right to rent check.
• Travelling abroad: you need to prove you can return to the UK but have no valid travel documents.
• Applying for settlement: you need to prove continuous residence but are missing historical records.
• Bank account or benefits: financial institutions need immigration status verification.
• Accessing public services: you need proof of status for the NHS, education, or other services.

Fees and timings

BRP replacement inside the UK

Around £34

Replacement BRP visa from outside the UK

£154

Subject Access Request

Free

BRP replacement processing

Usually 3 weeks

Subject Access Request response

30 to 40 days