The United Kingdom has fully digitized its immigration system, introducing an electronic visa — E-Visa system instead of physical immigration documents. Now, information confirming the right to enter or stay in the country is stored in digital form. The UK government announced this.
According to the government, the electronic visa simplifies the process of confirming immigration status. It also prevents the loss, theft, or forgery of documents. Once the visa application is approved, there is no need to wait for or collect a physical immigration document.
However, in some cases, applicants may be required to submit biometric information in person.
Individuals who have obtained a visa must log in to their personal online account with the UK Visas and Immigration office before traveling to the United Kingdom to check their electronic visa and immigration permission.
It is noted that starting from July 1, 2026, the United Kingdom has stopped issuing visa vignettes — visa stickers affixed to passports — to new visa recipients. Now, only electronic visas will be issued to new applicants.
Additionally, if an applicant has submitted their passport to the visa application center, the document will be returned to them while the application is being processed. If the visa is approved, the individual must check before traveling that their electronic visa is reflected in their personal account with the UK Visas and Immigration office.
