The United Kingdom has launched an innovative eVisa system that replaces traditional physical documents like Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs), vignette stickers, and ‘wet ink stamps’ for individuals planning to stay in the UK for over six months.
This digital advancement, announced by the British High Commission in Islamabad, aims to streamline and secure the visa process.
With this new system, those who receive a visa to work or study in the UK for more than six months will be required to set up an online UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account. This account will serve as a digital record of their immigration status, allowing them to access their eVisa online. However, short-term visitors to the UK, such as tourists staying for less than six months, will not need to create a UKVI account.
British High Commissioner Jane Marriott CMB OBE emphasized the advantages of this system, noting, “We are continuously innovating to facilitate travel to the UK for Pakistanis. This new technology will simplify the visa process, enhance security, and reduce reliance on paper documents.”
The eVisa process is described as straightforward, secure, and free, with detailed instructions available on the UK government website. Applicants are reminded not to travel to the UK until they have received their passport and valid UK visa from the Visa Application Centre (VAC).
This initiative demonstrates the UK’s commitment to modernizing its immigration processes, making it more efficient and accessible for international travelers, including those from Pakistan.