Dubai: Pakistani passport holders traveling to the United Kingdom can now access a fully digital eVisa system instead of receiving a visa sticker inside their passport, the British High Commission in Pakistan announced.
The change applies to visitors traveling for tourism, family visits, or business meetings, including applicants based in the UAE. Instead of a physical visa vignette, successful applicants will receive confirmation of their immigration status by email.
How the New eVisa System Works
Applicants will continue to submit their visa applications online and attend a visa application center to provide biometric data. However, after completing biometrics, they will no longer need to return to collect their passports.
Instead, the system issues a digital immigration record accessible through a UK Visas and Immigration online account. Applicants can keep their passports immediately after their biometric appointment.
This update removes the second visa center visit, which previously required applicants to retrieve passports with physical visa stickers.
What is a UK eVisa?
A UK eVisa functions as a digital record of immigration status. Travelers log into their UKVI account to view their visa details.
In addition, applicants can generate a share code. This code allows them to prove their visa status at UK border control or in other official situations where status verification is required.
According to the British High Commission, the digital system improves security and reduces risks associated with lost or damaged documents.
Official Response
British High Commissioner Jane Marriott CMG OBE described the rollout as a significant step forward for Pakistani travelers.
She stated that the change removes a major administrative step and allows applicants to retain their passports during processing. She also noted that the share code system simplifies how travelers demonstrate visa status.
No Changes to Processing or Eligibility
Authorities clarified that visa processing times, eligibility criteria, and visa conditions remain unchanged under the new system.
Officials also strongly advised applicants to apply directly through the official government website, gov.uk, and avoid third-party visa agents.
With this shift, the UK moves further toward digitizing immigration processes, replacing physical documentation with secure, account-based verification for eligible Pakistani visitors.
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eVisas provide a more secure way to manage immigration status and reduce the risk of lost or damaged documents.AFP
