UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) has introduced a major upgrade to its visa application process with the continued rollout of eVisas, marking a significant step in the United Kingdom’s transition to a fully digital immigration system. The change came into effect on February 25, 2026, and will apply to most UK visa customers.
Under the new system, eVisas replace traditional visa vignette stickers placed in passports. Applicants will no longer be required to submit and leave their passports while a decision is being made on their visa application. Instead, customers will retain their passports after attending a single appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to confirm their identity and, where necessary, submit supporting documents and enrol biometrics.
According to UK Visas and Immigration, more than 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. With the final phases of implementation underway, eVisas are becoming the default evidence of immigration status across most UK immigration routes.
The digital shift is expected to enhance flexibility for travellers, allowing them to retain their passports during processing and apply for visas to other countries simultaneously, thereby simplifying international travel planning.
Srinarayan Sankaran, Chief Operating Officer – Global Operations, VFS Global, said the move significantly enhances the customer journey by offering greater ease and flexibility. As the global visa service provider for UKVI, VFS Global will continue to support the digital transition across its operational network worldwide.
How the eVisa Process Works
Applicants are required to:
- Begin their application on gov.uk and complete the online form
- Schedule an appointment with VFS Global
- Visit the VFS Global Visa Application Centre to submit documents and enrol biometrics
- Leave the centre with their passport and await a decision
- If the application is successful, instructions on accessing the eVisa will be sent to the applicant’s registered email address.
Key Benefits of the eVisa System
- No passport retention during processing
- Ability to apply for UK visas alongside applications for other countries
- Flexibility to submit an application from the country of residence and travel to the UK from anywhere once the eVisa is granted
- Elimination of courier wait times for passport return
UKVI has advised customers to create their UKVI account, access their eVisa, and verify that all details are correct before travelling to the United Kingdom.
 has rolled out its eVisa system from February 25, 2026, making digital immigration status the default for most visa routes. The move replaces physical visa vignette stickers and biometric residence permits, allowing applicants to retain their passports during processing.){kind=link}