British High Commissioner to Pakistan, Jane Marriott. Photo: Facebook/UK in Pakistan
ISLAMABAD:
Pakistani citizens traveling to the United Kingdom can now access a fully digital visa system, eliminating the need for physical visa labels in passports and streamlining the application process, the British High Commission in Islamabad announced on Tuesday.
Under the new agreement, visitors, including tourists, business travelers and those visiting family, will continue to submit applications online and attend a visa application center to provide biometric data.
However, successful applicants will now receive confirmation of their immigration status electronically via an eVisa, rather than returning to collect their passports with visa stickers attached.
The eVisa creates a secure digital record of a traveller’s immigration status, which can be accessed through a UK Visas and Immigration online account. Applicants will be able to keep their passports after their biometric appointment, eliminating the need for a second visit to the visa center and potentially reducing wait times and logistical inconveniences.
High Commissioner Jane Marriott described the move as a significant development for Pakistani travellers. “This is a hugely exciting step for Pakistanis visiting the UK for tourism, to visit loved ones or for business meetings, as it removes a huge step in the application process,” he said.
Applicants issued an eVisa will be able to generate a shared code to demonstrate their immigration status at the UK borders and, where necessary, to other relevant authorities. “By saving time by keeping your passport, the new codeshare system makes it easier than ever to prove your visa status,” Marriott said.
There are no changes to visa processing times, eligibility requirements or conditions attached to visas. The high commission emphasized that visa applicants are strongly discouraged from using third-party agents and should instead apply directly through the official UK government website, which remains the only authorized source of information and applications.
The introduction of eVisas for visitors follows last year’s successful launch for international students and work visa holders. According to the high commission, thousands of travelers around the world have already used the digital system at UK airports.
Authorities clarified that existing sticker visas remain valid and are not affected by the latest changes. Further guidance on accessing and using eVisas is available through official UK government channels, the high commission said.
