U.K. Visas and Immigration (UKVI) is introducing a major upgrade to its visa application process with the continued rollout of eVisas. Most U.K. visa customers will benefit from this digital transformation, which marks the final phase of the government’s “Digital by Default” immigration strategy.
Transition to paperless immigration
The eVisa system replaces traditional visa vignette stickers and Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs). Over 10 million people are already using these secure digital statuses. Under the new system, customers no longer need to part with their passports while a decision is being made, providing significantly greater flexibility for those with busy international travel plans.
Srinarayan Sankaran, COO of VFS Global, noted that this change allows travelers to keep their passports for other visa applications or travel home while their U.K. application is being processed.
The new eVisa application process
The modernized workflow simplifies the experience into four main steps:
- Online application: Start the process on gov.uk and complete the digital form.
- Scheduling: Book an appointment through VFS Global.
- Biometrics: Visit a VFS Global Visa Application Centre to enroll fingerprints and a photograph. At the same time, you can submit any required documents.
- Passport return: Leave the centre immediately with your passport. If successful, you will receive an email with instructions on how to access your digital eVisa.
Key benefits of the digital shift
The move to eVisas offers several practical advantages for global travelers:
- No passport retention: You retain your travel document throughout the decision period.
- Simultaneous applications: You can apply for a U.K. visa and other country visas (such as Schengen or U.S.) at the same time.
- Global departure: Additionally, once the eVisa is received, you can depart for the U.K. from any country, not just the one where you applied.
- Instant verification: There is no longer a need to wait for physical documents to be delivered via courier services.
Important travel requirements
Before traveling to the U.K., it is essential that customers create their UKVI account and verify that their digital status is linked to their current passport. Border carriers will now perform automated “permission-to-travel” checks; if your passport details do not match your digital record, you may be refused boarding. For British dual nationals, it is important to note that you must travel on your British passport or have a digital Certificate of Entitlement linked to your non-U.K. passport to avoid delays.
