The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) is phasing out physical visa documents in favor of a secure, online eVisa system. This shift promises enhanced security, efficiency, and convenience, but it also introduces new processes for travelers, workers, and students.
As we approach the end of 2025, with full implementation slated for early 2026, here’s everything you need to know about this tech-driven overhaul.
What exactly is the UK eVisa System?
The eVisa represents the UK’s pivot to a fully digital immigration framework, eliminating the need for tangible documents like visa vignette stickers (those familiar adhesive labels in passports), biometric residence permits (BRPs), biometric residence cards (BRCs), and even traditional wet ink stamps. Instead, your immigration status becomes a secure digital record stored online, linked directly to your passport or travel document.
At its core, an eVisa contains essential details such as your visa type (e.g., work, study, or visit), its validity period, and any associated conditions, like the right to work or study in the UK. This digital approach aims to streamline operations by reducing the risks associated with physical items—think loss, damage, or forgery—while making the system more user-friendly and accessible.
Importantly, while eVisas replace physical proofs, you’ll still need to carry a valid passport when traveling to the UK. Border officials will scan it to verify your identity against the linked digital record. Once set up, you can access your eVisa anytime through a personal UKVI account and generate a temporary “share code” to prove your status to employers, landlords, airlines, or other entities. This code, valid for 30 days, allows real-time verification via the UKVI’s online system.
A phased approach to digital immigration
The transition to eVisas isn’t happening overnight; it’s a carefully orchestrated rollout building toward a “digital by default” system by the end of 2025, with vignettes fully phased out by early 2026.
Based on official UKVI updates, here’s a breakdown of the key phases:
| Phase | Date | Key Changes |
| Initial Rollout | 15 July 2025 | eVisas replace vignettes for main applicants on major routes like Skilled Worker, Student, Global Talent, and certain family visas (non-European nationals). Dependants (partners/children) still get a 90-day vignette sticker but must also set up an eVisa. |
| Expansion | 30 October 2025 | Additional work, study, family, and settlement applications from overseas no longer receive vignettes; only eVisas issued. Visit visas and some short-stay routes continue with vignettes temporarily. |
| Invitations for Existing Holders | November 2025 onward | UKVI emails some recent vignette holders to create a UKVI account and access their eVisa. You can use either the eVisa or vignette interchangeably during transition. |
| Full Phase-Out | Early 2026 | Vignettes stopped entirely for most new applicants (including visit visas). All successful applicants get only an eVisa. By January 2026, the goal is for all migrants to use digital status. |
| Legacy Transition | Ongoing through 2026 | Holders of older documents (e.g., pre-2020 vignettes, BRPs expiring after 31 March 2025) must digitize via a UKVI account. No action needed yet if your vignette/BRP is valid beyond 2025. |
This timeline ensures a smooth migration, minimizing disruptions for millions of visa holders.
How does the eVisa system work?
The mechanics of applying for and using an eVisa are designed to integrate seamlessly with existing processes, leveraging online tools for greater efficiency.
Applying for a Visa
The core application remains unchanged: Submit your details online via GOV.UK, attend a visa application center for biometrics, and pay the required fees. Upon approval, instead of mailing your passport back with a sticker, you’ll receive an email containing a Unique Application Number (UAN) or GWF reference. This is your key to accessing the digital system—no more waiting for physical mail.
Setting up your UKVI account
Head to the “View and Prove Your Immigration Status” service on GOV.UK (it’s free and doesn’t require a dedicated app). You’ll input your UAN, passport details, and date of birth to create or link an account. Adding your passport to the profile links it to your eVisa, a process that users report takes just minutes.
Viewing and proving your eVisa
Once logged in, you can view a digital summary of your status, similar to a PDF. For verification, generate a share code through the “View & Prove” service and share it with relevant parties. At borders, simply present your passport—officers will handle the digital check in real-time.
If you already hold a vignette, there’s no immediate action required if it’s still valid. UKVI will email invitations to digitize it. For those with indefinite leave to remain (settlement) via old vignettes or stamps, apply for a “No Time Limit” (NTL) endorsement to obtain a BRP first, then transition to an eVisa.
Who will be affected by this change?
The eVisa rollout primarily impacts non-EEA nationals applying from outside the UK for various visa categories:
- New Applicants: Those seeking work, study, family, settlement, or visit visas will receive only eVisas starting in phases from mid-2025.
- Dependants: In early stages, partners or children might get a temporary 90-day vignette, but they’ll need to set up an eVisa for ongoing access.
- Existing Holders: BRPs are set to expire on 31 March 2025, so digitization is essential now. Older paper documents remain valid but should be transitioned.
- Exemptions: Very short stays or niche routes may keep vignettes into early 2026, but this is temporary.
EEA citizens with pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme are already operating digitally, so they’re largely unaffected.
Benefits and key changes to travel and immigration
This digital shift brings several tech-enabled advantages:
- Enhanced Security: Digital records minimize fraud, loss, or theft, with real-time access for airlines and borders.
- Greater Convenience: No more handing over passports for stickers, reducing processing times and the need for blank pages. You can even apply and travel while applications are pending.
- Efficiency Boost: Instant verifications for employment, housing, or education—no carrying physical docs.
- Cost Savings: Lower administrative burdens for UKVI, and it’s free for users.
In terms of travel, your passport remains the primary ID, but airlines must now verify eVisas digitally pre-boarding (most have updated systems—always double-check). Visa rules, like the six-month visitor limit, stay the same; only the proof method evolves.
Immigration processes see subtle tweaks: Extensions update instantly in your account, and support is available via 24/7 webchat.
Potential challenges and practical tips
Like any tech transition, eVisas aren’t without hurdles:
- Tech Accessibility: You’ll need internet and a device for share codes—printouts aren’t official, so rely on the site or app.
- Errors and Mismatches: If details don’t align, contact UKVI promptly.
- Third-Party Adoption: While most employers and landlords are prepared, educate them on share codes.
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