ISLAMAVAD: The UK has introduced a new eVisa system that will eliminate the need for physical documents such as Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs), vignette stickers in passports, or ‘wet ink stamps’ for visa holders staying in the UK for longer than six months.
This digital innovation aims to streamline the visa process, making it more secure and less reliant on paper-based documentation, according to a press release issued by the British High Commission in Islamabad.
Under the new system, individuals granted a visa to work or study in the UK for over six months will be required to create a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) online account. This account will serve as an online record of their immigration status, allowing them to access their eVisa digitally. However, those visiting the UK for less than six months, such as tourists, will not need to create a UKVI account.
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British High Commissioner Jane Marriott CMB OBE commented on the new system, stating, “We are constantly innovating to make it easier for Pakistanis to travel to the UK. This new use of technology will streamline a key part of the visa process, make it more secure and reduce the dependence on paper documents.”
The process is free, secure, and straightforward, with detailed instructions available on the UK government website. Importantly, applicants should not travel to the UK until they have received their passport and valid UK visa back from the Visa Application Centre (VAC).
Even with the introduction of the eVisa system, BRP cards will still need to be collected upon arrival in the UK. All BRP cards remain valid until 31 December 2024, and the expiry of the card will not affect an individual’s immigration status. Individuals are advised to carry their BRP card and passport when traveling overseas to prove their permission to return to the UK.