ISLAMABAD: The UK immigration system is currently undergoing a major digital reform that will eliminate the need for physical documents such as biometric residence permits, visa stickers and ink stamps, according to a press release on Friday.
From now on, people granted a visa for a stay of more than six months – for example, for work or study – will need to create a UKVI online account to manage their eVisa. This online account will act as a digital record of their immigration status. However, people visiting the UK for less than six months, for example as tourists, do not need to create a UKVI account.
British High Commissioner to Pakistan Jane Marriott said: “We are constantly striving to make it easier for Pakistanis to enter the UK. This move to digital technology will simplify the visa process, increase security and reduce our reliance on paper documents.”
The transition to the digital system is designed to be free, secure and easy to use. Applicants can find instructions on how to create an account and further details at gov.uk/eVisa.
It is important to note that travellers should wait until they have received their passport and valid UK visa from the Visa Application Centre (VAC) before travelling to the UK. Switching to an eVisa does not change a person’s immigration status or the conditions of their stay.
Upon arrival in the UK, new arrivals will still need to apply for a BRP. Although BRP cards are valid until 31 December 2024, their expiry will not affect a person’s immigration status. Existing BRP cardholders can use their cards to set up their UKVI accounts and access their eVisas.
It is recommended that you carry your BRP until it expires and that you present both your BRP and your passport when travelling abroad to demonstrate your right to return to the UK.
