The United Kingdom has expanded its digital e-visa system, allowing most applicants to keep their passports during processing. The move replaces physical visa stickers and marks a major shift towards fully digital immigration status.
The United Kingdom (UK) has expanded the rollout of its digital e-visa system from February 25, 2026, making the application process more flexible and convenient. Under this system, most applicants no longer need to submit their passports for visa stamping, as physical vignette stickers are being replaced with digital proof of immigration status.
Also read: How to complete LPG Aadhaar e-KYC from home
Also Read
Why this matters
The shift to e-visas removes the need for passport retention and courier delivery of visa documents. It also gives applicants greater flexibility to manage travel plans while waiting for a decision.
“Over 10 million people are already using secure and convenient eVisas, which are replacing physical immigration status documents such as biometric residence permits (BRPs) and visa vignette stickers in passports. We are now in the final phases of implementation, with eVisas becoming the default evidence of status for most immigration routes to the UK,” said UK Visas and Immigration.
Complete the online application
Start by filling out the visa application form on the official UK government website. Ensure all details are accurate and documents are uploaded as required.
Book a VFS Global Appointment
Once the application is submitted, schedule an appointment with VFS Global.
Visit a Visa Application Centre
Head to your selected visa application centre to submit your supporting documents and enrol your biometrics After your appointment, you can leave with your passport.
Receive your e-visa
If your application is approved, you will receive instructions via your registered email on how to access your digital e-visa.
Travel to the UK
Once your e-visa is issued, it serves as proof of your immigration status. You can travel to the UK from anywhere in the world without needing a physical visa sticker in your passport.
Published: 23 Mar 2026, 06:39 pm IST
Related Topics
Subscribe to our Newsletter
Disclaimer: Kindly avoid objectionable, derogatory, unlawful and lewd comments, while responding to reports. Such comments are punishable under cyber laws. Please keep away from personal attacks. The opinions expressed here are the personal opinions of readers and not that of Mathrubhumi.