UKVI Moves towards Fully Digital Immigration with New eVisa System Starting Feb 25
Los Angeles/Feb 25, 2026
NRIpress.club/Ramesh/ A.Gary Singh
UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) has officially advanced its transition to a fully digital immigration system, replacing physical visa documents with electronic records known as eVisas. The move forms part of the broader modernization of the immigration process across the United Kingdom.
Under the phased rollout, applicants will no longer rely on visa stickers or paper-based documents. Instead, their identity and immigration status will be securely stored online within a UKVI account. Authorities confirmed that switching from a physical document to an eVisa will not alter a person’s immigration status or the conditions of their stay.
Since the introduction of digital records in 2018, millions have already received eVisas. The system offers several key advantages: digital visas cannot be lost, stolen, or tampered with; applicants will not need to collect physical documents after approval; and proving immigration status at the UK border or to employers and landlords will become faster and more convenient.
Changes for New UK Visa Applications from 25 February 2026
Most applicants who successfully apply for a UK visit visa or other visa categories on or after 25 February 2025 will receive an eVisa instead of a physical visa sticker.
Applicants must log into their UKVI online account to view their granted permission before travelling to the UK. After a decision is made, applicants will be guided on how to access their eVisa and informed whether they will receive a visa sticker.
Visa Stickers Already Phased Out in Several Categories
eVisas have already replaced visa stickers for:
- Main applicants and dependants applying for work, study, family visas, or indefinite leave to enter (settlement) for applications submitted on or after 30 October 2025.
- Main applicants under work and study routes for applications made on or after 15 July 2025.
To support vulnerable individuals during the transition, the UK Government has announced up to £400,000 in funding for community-based organizations through March 2026.
Additionally, more individuals — including those issued a Form for Affixing a Visa (FAV) or those without valid identity documents — can now create UKVI accounts to access their digital status.
The shift marks a significant step toward a streamlined, secure, and fully digital immigration framework.
Source: UK Govt.
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