The UK government has taken a significant step to modernise its Immigration system. It has accelerated the transition from physical Immigration documents to a complete digital format. This digital format is known as an eVisa. The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) has confirmed that eVisas will entirely replace the visa stickers in 2026. It is also marking a major shift in how the visitors, migrants, students and workers will prove their immigration Status.
Meaning of an eVisa
The eVisa refers to a secure digital record of an individual’s Immigration identity and status. Instead of depending on physical documents such as biometric residence permits(BRPs) and visa strickers the visa holders can access their status online through a UKVI account.
This digital approach has been developed since 2018. Millions of people have already issued eVisas across several immigration pathways. The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) has clarified that this change of physical documents to an eVisa does not change the immigration status or visa conditions of a person.
Why the UK is Moving to a Digital Immigration System
The UK is moving to a Digital Immigration System, with the intention to make the Immigration system even more secure, efficient and user-friendly. This eVisa cannot be lost, stolen or tampered with, unlike the physical documents. Updating your existing physical documents won’t affect your Immigration status and your permission to enter or reside in the UK.
The Candidates need not collect or wait for physical documents once the decision on their application is made. However, you might still need to personally provide the biometric information.
With this Digital Immigration system, it’s easy to prove your status at the UK border. You can also share your status with third parties, like landlords and employers.
Updates and Announcement
The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) has made several important announcements and updates. That includes
eVisas to replace all visa stickers in 2026
From 12 January 2026, many people were granted a UK visit visa, including other visa categories. You will receive an eVisa with a physical visa sticker. People with a valid UK visa sticker issued before January 12 can access their eVisa through their UKVI account.
New Visa application changes from 30 October 2025
The Applicants and Dependents applying for work, family visas, study or indefinite leave to enter (settlement) on or after 30 October 2025 may not get a visa sticker. Instead of this, you may need to access your eVisa through your UKVI account.
Expansion of Access and Support Measures
The government of the UK has announced additional funding of up to £400,000 available from 1 September 2025 till 31 March 2026. This is for 25 national and community-based organisations.
The visa holders must check whether they are eligible to access an eVisa and to create a UKVI account if applicable. You are also encouraged to sign up to stay updated with further changes in UK. since the country moves toward a digital immigration framework.
Croyez Immigration will assess you with the visa applicants and the UK visa holders to understand the eVisa requirements and create UKVI accounts. Croyez Immigration provides structured guidance on documentation, application timelines, and post-approval procedures, including navigating the eVisa system.
