The United Kingdom has officially launched e-Visas for most Pakistani students and workers, streamlining the visa process significantly.
The British High Commission in Islamabad confirmed the update, which applies to most applicants seeking visas for over six months.
Jane Marriott, the UK’s High Commissioner to Pakistan, announced the rollout on social media. She emphasized that the new system is more secure, digital, and convenient.
Applicants no longer need to submit their passports for visa stickers, as the UK shifts away from physical visa labels.
Starting July 15, successful visa holders will receive a digital record of their immigration status via a UKVI online account.
Digital Visas Aim to Simplify Identity and Status Verification
The new e-Visa system serves as official online proof of a person’s right to enter or stay in the UK.
It includes any conditions attached to their stay and allows easy sharing of visa details through the UKVI’s “view and prove” service.
This system helps applicants securely provide their status to employers, landlords, or other authorities without handling physical documents.
The UK government says this digital transformation enhances security, speed, and accessibility for both applicants and officials.
Multiple Visa Categories Now Covered
The e-Visa rollout currently includes main applicants in several categories:
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Students, including short-term (11-month) study visa holders
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Skilled workers, especially in healthcare and care sectors
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Global talent and international sportspersons
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Temporary work schemes, including creative and charity roles
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Applicants under the Youth Mobility and Global Business Mobility programs
These groups can now complete the entire visa process without surrendering their passports.
Physical Stickers Remain for Some Categories—for Now
However, not all applicants are covered under the digital system just yet.
Dependants and those applying for non-work or non-study visas, such as general visitor visas, will still receive physical visa stickers.
The UK government plans to gradually extend the e-Visa system to all visa types, aiming for a fully digital and secure immigration system.
Current visa holders with physical stickers do not need to take any action, as their status remains valid and unchanged.
