The United Kingdom has introduced a new eVisa system that will revolutionize the visa process by eliminating the need for traditional physical documents like Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs), vignette stickers in passports, or ‘wet ink stamps’ for individuals staying in the UK for more than six months.
This digital innovation is designed to enhance the efficiency and security of the visa process, as announced by the British High Commission in Islamabad.
Under this new system, those granted a visa for work or study in the UK for over six months will need to create a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) online account. This account will serve as a digital record of their immigration status, enabling them to access their eVisa online. However, short-term visitors to the UK, such as tourists staying for less than six months, will not be required to create a UKVI account.
British High Commissioner Jane Marriott CMB OBE highlighted the benefits of the new system, stating, “We are constantly innovating to make it easier for Pakistanis to travel to the UK. This new use of technology will streamline a key part of the visa process, make it more secure, and reduce the dependence on paper documents.”
The new eVisa process is described as free, secure, and straightforward, with comprehensive instructions available on the UK government website. Applicants are advised not to travel to the UK until they have received their passport and valid UK visa back from the Visa Application Centre (VAC).
This initiative reflects the UK’s commitment to modernizing its immigration procedures, making it simpler and more accessible for international travelers, including those from Pakistan.
