The British High Commission in Islamabad has announced updates to the UK’s immigration system, transitioning towards a fully digital platform.
The new change involves replacing physical immigration documents, such as Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs), vignette stickers in passports, and ‘wet ink stamps,’ with an online eVisa system.
Individuals granted visas to stay in the UK for more than six months, such as for work or study, will need to create an online account with UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) to access their eVisa.
This digital account will serve as the official record of their immigration status. Those receiving visas for shorter stays like tourists, will not need to set up a UKVI account.
British High commissioner to Pakistan Jane Marriott said: “We are constantly innovating to make it easier for Pakistanis to travel to the UK. This new use of technology will streamline a key part of the visa process, make it more secure and reduce the dependence on paper documents.”
The High Commission confirmed that the process is secure and user-friendly. Visa holders are advised not to travel to the UK until they have received their passport and valid visa back from the Visa Application Centre (VAC).
The shift to an eVisa does not impact a person’s immigration status or the conditions under which they are permitted to enter or remain in the UK.
Upon arrival in the UK, individuals will still need to collect their BRP, which remains valid until 31st December 2024.
The BRP can be used to set up the UKVI account and access the eVisa. Travelers should continue carrying their BRP until it expires, along with their passport, to confirm permission to return to the UK.
This transition to eVisas is part of the UKVI’s broader effort to develop a fully digital immigration system, making it easier and more secure for individuals to manage their immigration status.
The digital record will reflect the conditions of a person’s permission to enter or remain in the UK.
The High Commission noted that eVisas offer enhanced security by reducing the risk of fraud, loss, and abuse associated with physical documents.
By eliminating physical documents, the eVisa system strengthens border security and provides a more secure way to verify immigration status.
Additionally, this digital approach paves the way for increased automation, supporting the government’s vision for a contactless border.
Travellers should continue to carry their current passport, as per the British High Commission in Islamabad. In cases where a new passport has been obtained, it is recommended to carry the old passport as well until the UKVI account is fully updated to avoid any delay at the border.
