ISLAMABAD – The United Kingdom has rolled out a new e-Visa system for Pakistani students and workers, making it easier and faster to obtain UK visas without surrendering passports. The digital visa system officially came into effect on July 15, 2025.
Under the new system, most Pakistanis applying to study or work in the UK for more than six months will no longer need a physical visa sticker. Instead, they will receive a secure digital visa record, which serves as proof of their right to stay in the UK.
British High Commissioner to Pakistan Jane Marriott announced the update, saying the change would be highly convenient for applicants who may need their passports for other travel while waiting for visa approval.
How the UK’s new e-Visa system works:
✅ From July 15, 2025, students and workers get e-Visas for stays over six months
✅ No need to submit passports for visa stickers
✅ Approved visas will appear online via a UKVI account
✅ Applicants can share their status with landlords, employers, or other authorities using a ‘view and prove’ link
✅ Dependants and short-term visitors will still receive physical visa stickers for now
✅ Existing visa holders with stickers don’t need to take any action
The UK plans to expand e-Visas to all visa categories in the future, moving towards a fully digital and safer visa system.
This upgrade is expected to benefit thousands of Pakistani students and professionals, making it easier to plan travel, avoid delays, and keep their passports with them throughout the process.
