ISLAMABAD: The United Kingdom has officially launched e-visas for Pakistani students and workers, a move aimed at modernising and simplifying its immigration process.
Effective July 15, 2025, most primary applicants applying for UK study or work-related visas will no longer require a physical sticker in their passports. Instead, they will be issued a digital record of their immigration status, known as an eVisa. This eVisa confirms an individual’s permission to enter, stay, or work in the UK and outlines any related conditions. Applicants can manage their eVisa via an online UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account.
According to the British High Commission in Islamabad, this shift will make the visa process more secure, efficient, and user-friendly. British High Commissioner Jane Marriott CMG OBE said the eVisa system would simplify the process, allowing applicants to retain their passports during the process.
The rollout includes a wide range of visa categories, such as long and short-term students, Skilled Workers (including Health and Care roles), Global Talent, International Sportspersons, Temporary Workers, and those under the Youth Mobility Scheme. It also covers Global Business Mobility routes, including Senior or Specialist Workers and Graduate Trainees.
EVisa holders can link their passports to their UKVI accounts for smoother travel and use the "view and prove" service to securely share their immigration status with employers or landlords.
However, those applying as dependants or for visitor visas will still receive physical stickers. Existing valid visas also remain unaffected. This transition is part of the UK Home Office’s broader goal to fully digitise its immigration system.
