The United Kingdom has announced an expansion of its eVisa system to include new biometric applicants, moving towards a fully digital immigration process. This change will eliminate the need for physical documents such as Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs), vignette stickers, and wet ink stamps, replacing them with an online immigration status accessible through a UKVI account.
Individuals granted visas to stay in the UK for over six months, whether for work or study, will be required to create an online UKVI account to manage their eVisa. Conversely, those with short-term visas, such as tourists, will not need to set up an account.
UK High Commissioner to Pakistan, Jane Marriott, highlighted the benefits of this technological advancement, 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, making it more secure and reducing the reliance on paper documents.”
The transition to eVisas is described as free, secure, and straightforward, with additional information available on the UK government website. Travelers are advised to wait until they have received their passport and valid visa from the Visa Application Centre before traveling to the UK.
BRP cards will remain valid until December 31, 2024, and travelers should continue to carry their BRP cards alongside their passports when traveling abroad to confirm their right to re-enter the UK.
