The United Kingodm has officially launched digital eVisas for Pakistani nationals applying under student and work visa categories, replacing traditional physical visa stickers with secure online immigration records.
Effectively July 15, applicants traveling to the UK for study or employment will no longer need visa label in their passport. Instead, they will access their immigration status through UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account, streamlining the process and allowing them to retain their passport during application.
“These changes will make it much simpler for students and workers to prove their identity and visa status,” said British High Commissioner Jane Marriot, calling the move part of a broader shift toward a fully digital immigration system.
The eVisas rollout applies to a wide range of routes, including:
- Studnet (including short-term study up to 11 months)
- Skilled Workers (including Health and Care roles)
- Global Talent and International Sportspearsons
- Youth Mobility Scheme
- Temporary Work routes (e.g. Charity, Creative, Religious)
- Global Business Mobility categories
Applicants can link their passport to their UKVI account and use the “view and prove” service to securely share their visa status with employers, landlords or other third parties in the UK.
Physical visa stickers will still be used for dependents, general visitors, applicants outside the eligible categories. Existing sticker vises remain valid until expiry.
The UK government says the eVisa system is already used by millions and offers great security, convenience and efficiency. Overtime, it will be expanded to cover all visa types.
The announcement follows recent developments in UK-Pakistan relations, including the lifting of the UK’s air safety ban pn Pakistani airlines and signing of a new trade dialogue agreement aimed at strengthening bilateral ties.
