UK has now moved another step closer to a fully digital border system by introducing eVisas for Pakistani students and workers travelling on study and employment routes. As of 15 July 2025, most main applicants no longer require a physical visa vignette (sticker) in their passport to enter the UK.
What Is an eVisa?
An eVisa is a secure, digital confirmation of a person’s immigration status in the UK. It is a digital proof of an individuals’ immigration status. This digital system is managed through the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) online account, which applicants must create and maintain.
Once an account is set up, individuals can link their passport or travel document to their immigration record. This allows for straightforward travel and enables users to prove their status to employers, landlords and service providers using the UKVI’s “View and Prove” service.
Who Is Affected?
The eVisa rollout currently applies to main applicants in the following immigration categories:
- Student visas, including short-term study (up to 11 months)
- Skilled Worker route, including the Health and Care Worker subcategory
- Global Talent visa holders
- International Sportsperson category
- Temporary Work routes: Charity Worker, Creative Worker, Government Authorised Exchange, International Agreement and Religious Worker
- Youth Mobility Scheme
- Global Business Mobility routes:
- Senior or Specialist Worker
- Graduate Trainee
- Global Business Mobility – UK Expansion Worker Visa
- Service Supplier
- Secondment Worker
Importantly, dependants and applicants for visitor visas or other non-study/work categories will still receive a traditional physical visa vignette.
Benefits of the eVisa System
British High Commissioner to Pakistan, Jane Marriott CMG OBE, emphasised the advantages of this shift:
“These changes to the UK visa system will make it much simpler for students and workers to prove their identity and visa status. It also means applicants can hold onto their passports, saving them time.”
Does This Change Your Visa Status?
No. Transitioning to an eVisa does not alter your existing immigration permission or legal status. If your visa is already valid and contained within a physical vignette, there is no requirement to take any action at this stage. The digital system only replaces the physical format, it does not impact the terms of your stay.
Looking Ahead
This transition is part of the UK Government’s broader move towards a fully digital immigration system. With millions already using digital status confirmation under select routes, the introduction of eVisas for Pakistani students and workers marks a significant step in this phased rollout, aimed at improving security, efficiency and user experience across all UK visa categories.
As the system continues to expand, all visa holders, including those applying through study and work routes, will eventually benefit from this streamlined, contactless process enhancing both the immigration infrastructure and end-user convenience.
Need Support With Your UK Visa Application?
At Morgan Smith Immigration, we stay ahead of policy changes to ensure our clients receive up-to-date, personalised advice. Whether you are applying for a student visa, planning your career in the UK or understanding digital status updates, we are here to guide you.
With over 20 years of experience and a commitment to excellence, Morgan Smith Immigration is your trusted partner for all your immigration needs. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you with UK Visa Applications. For any enquiries or assistance, call us at 0203 959 3335 or email [email protected].
