United KingdomGOV.UK
International-organisation staff can seek a free digital exemption record
Eligibility depends on the organisation’s UK agreement and legislation. The optional passport-linked record is valid for the visit, and UKVI says decisions will be emailed within 15 working days.
By Taxxa AI OyPublished 26 August 2026
Industry: Activities of extraterritorial organisations and bodies
Employees, officials and representatives of recognised international organisations can apply online for a digital record of exemption from UK immigration controlGOV, with no fee for the record
GOV. The organisation's agreement with the UK government sets out who can receive rights and exemptions.
GOV UK Visas and Immigration says the record is optional and linked to the passport used in the application.
The guidance directs applicants to the recognised organisations listed on GOV.UK. The relevant agreement determines whether a person is exempt, whether they may remain for the duration of their post and whether qualifying family members can accompany them.GOV Employment by an international organisation therefore requires an assessment of the particular agreement when considering those rights.
The guidance identifies a dependent partner as a husband, wife or civil partner, and a dependent child as a child under 18. They must live in the applicant’s household and be permitted under the organisation’s legislation or agreement. The guidance lists settlement in the UK and switching to another visa route as things applicants cannot do. The employee’s possible stay is linked to the duration of the post, while accompanying family qualify only if the applicable agreement or legislation permits them.
The online application requires an appointment at a visa application centre. Applicants must take their original passport, rather than a photocopy, and a passport-sized photograph meeting UK passport standards. They must also provide a letter from the international organisation clearly stating how they qualify for exemption under the international organisation’s legislation.
The digital record is intended to make exempt status clear to airlines, other carriers and border officials, helping avoid travel delays or boarding problems. UKVI says it will email its decision within 15 working days. The record can be used only for the visit concernedGOV, and an applicant must apply again if it expires.
The underlying exemption is governed by the relevant organisation's agreement and legislationGOV, with article 4 of the Immigration (Exemption From Control) Order 1972 providing specified exemptions that retain the Act's deportation provisions.
When applying for a digital record of exemption, obtain the international organisation’s letter explaining the exemption and attend the visa application centre with the original passport and a compliant passport photograph.