The United Kingdom has announced that, effective February 25, 2026, visitors who require entry visas will no longer receive physical immigration documents, as the country completes its transition to a fully digital visa system.
The update was disclosed by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) in a statement shared on Friday, confirming that eligible travellers will be issued electronic visas (eVisas) only.
“From 25 February 2026 visitors to the UK, who need a visa, will get an eVisa only. Create your UKVI account and view your eVisa before you travel to the UK,” the agency stated.
According to the UK government, an eVisa serves as a digital record of a person’s identity and immigration status. It indicates the type of visa granted, whether the holder has indefinite leave to remain (settlement), and outlines the conditions attached to their stay, such as permission to work or study.
The development marks a significant shift from physical immigration documents. Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) have already been replaced with eVisas, and the digital system will now also replace Biometric Residence Cards (BRCs), as well as wet ink stamps and vignette stickers previously placed in passports.
Under the new arrangement, travellers will typically receive their eVisa after successfully applying for a visa or other form of permission to enter or remain in the UK. Once issued, visa holders will be able to access their status online, generate a share code to prove their immigration status when required such as for employment or tenancy and update their passport or travel document details before travelling.
The UK government clarified that access to an eVisa requires the creation of a UKVI account, which can be set up at no cost. Authorities emphasised that applicants will not be charged to create an account or to view their digital immigration status.
The move is part of the UK’s broader digital transformation of its border and immigration system, aimed at enhancing security, efficiency, and ease of verification for travellers and institutions alike.
