The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) department is making a major change to how immigration permissions are granted for those coming to the UK to work or study. Starting from 15 July 2025, UKVI will begin transitioning from physical visa stickers—known as vignette stickers—typically placed inside passports, to a fully digital immigration system called the eVisa.
What Is Changing?
- Physical vignettes phased out for work and study visas: Successful applicants for main work and study visa routes who apply online on or after 15 July 2025 will no longer receive a vignette sticker in their passport.
- Digital immigration record (eVisa): Instead of a sticker, you will access your immigration permission through a digital UKVI account.
- One-day biometrics and passport collection: You can submit your biometrics and collect your passport on the same day, streamlining the application process and eliminating the need to return to the Visa Application Centre for passport pickup later.
- Decision notifications: Decisions on your visa application will still be sent via email, in line with current UKVI processing timelines.
Who Is Affected?
- Main work and study visa applicants: If you’re coming to the UK as the main migrant to work or study, and you submit and pay for your application online on or after 15 July 2025, you’ll use the new eVisa system.
- Dependants and other visa types: Dependants of main migrants and those applying for other visa categories, like visitors, will continue to receive physical vignette stickers.
What Do You Need To Do?
- Create a UKVI account: Once you receive a successful decision, you must create an account to view and access your eVisa before traveling to the UK.
- Check your application timeline: If your application is submitted and paid for on or after 15 July 2025, be prepared to use the new process.
- Stay updated: For full details and updates, visit the official government page: www.gov.uk/evisa.
Why Is the UK Moving to eVisas?
This shift to eVisas is part of a broader UK government initiative to build a digital border. By digitizing immigration records, UKVI aims to make the process easier for customers, reduce administration, and enhance security.
For more information and official updates, refer to the UK Government’s eVisa webpage.
Sources:
- UK Government eVisa announcement
- UKVI official guidance
- Recent government press releases regarding eVisa transition