Travellers applying for a UK visa now no longer need to leave their passports at visa centres, as the UK rolls out a fully digital visa system.
UK Visas and Immigration confirmed that from February 25, 2026, most applicants will receive an eVisa instead of a visa sticker placed inside their passport.
The move forms part of a wider digital upgrade of the UK immigration system.
What is eVisa?
The eVisa is an online record of a person’s immigration status. It replaces physical documents such as biometric residence permits and visa vignette stickers.
According to UK Visas and Immigration: “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.”
Under the new system, applicants will keep their passports while their visa decision is processed.
How to apply?
The application process remains mostly online, with one visit required for identity checks.
Step 1: Start the visa application on the official UK government website and complete the online form.
Step 2: Book an appointment with VFS Global.
Step 3: Visit the VFS Global Visa Application Centre to submit documents, if required, and provide biometrics.
Step 4: Leave the centre with your passport and wait for a decision by email. If approved, instructions on accessing the eVisa will be sent to the registered email address.
Key benefits
The new system removes the need for passport retention during processing.
This allows applicants to apply for visas to other countries at the same time. It also removes the need to wait for passport return through courier services. Travellers can apply from their country of residence and travel to the UK from any location once the eVisa is issued.
Srinarayan Sankaran, Chief Operating Officer – Global Operations at VFS Global, said: “The move to eVisas will significantly enhance the customer process for travellers, providing them the ease and flexibility of retaining their passports, allowing for applications to other countries in the interim. As the global visa service providers for UK Visas and Immigration, we are excited to support them in this step towards visa digitalisation across our operational network.”
Applicants must create a UKVI account to access their eVisa after approval. Travellers are advised to check that all personal and visa details are correct before flying to the UK.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
