UK introduces eVisa system for Pakistani travellers

The United Kingdom has introduced a digital visa system for Pakistani travellers, allowing applicants to receive confirmation by email instead of visa stickers in their passports, the British High Commission said.

Under the new system, applicants will continue to apply online and visit a visa application centre to provide biometrics. Once approved, they will receive an eVisa, which will serve as a digital record of their immigration status through a UK Visas and Immigration online account.

The High Commission said applicants will no longer need to revisit the visa centre to collect their passports after biometric submission. Visa holders will be able to generate a share code to verify their status at UK borders and other checkpoints.

The mission clarified that there is no change in visa processing times, eligibility criteria or conditions. Existing sticker visas remain valid and unaffected.

Applicants were advised to apply directly through the official gov.uk website and avoid using third-party agents.

The High Commission said the eVisa system had already been rolled out for students and work visa holders last year and has been used by thousands of travellers globally at UK airports.

On Wednesday, Italy has announced 10,500 work visas for Pakistan’s skilled workforce following diplomatic engagement between the two countries. The Interior Ministry said the development reflects structured cooperation on legal migration.