The United Kingdom will fully replace paper visa documents with electronic visas (eVisas) for all travelers beginning February 25, 2026, the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) announced. This change applies to visitors who require a visa to enter the UK.
An eVisa is a digital record of a traveler’s identity and immigration status, including visa type, settlement status, and conditions such as work or study permissions. Travelers must access their eVisa via a UKVI account before traveling to the UK.
“From 25 February 2026, visitors to the UK who need a visa will get an eVisa only. Create your UKVI account and view your eVisa before travel,” UKVI confirmed on their official X platform.
How the eVisa System Works
- Access Your eVisa: Travelers must set up a UKVI account, if they don’t already have one, to view and manage their eVisa.
- Share Code: Upon approval, travelers receive a share code to verify their immigration status when applying for jobs, renting properties, or accessing services in the UK.
- No Cost: Setting up a UKVI account and accessing the eVisa is free of charge.
The UK government stated that eVisas will replace biometric residence permits (BRPs), biometric residence cards (BRCs), and traditional wet-ink stamps or vignettes previously placed in passports.
Benefits of the UK eVisa
- Digital Convenience: Eliminates the need for physical documents, reducing delays and the risk of lost paperwork.
- Secure Verification: Travelers can securely prove their immigration status using a digital share code.
- Streamlined Travel: Simplifies the visa process for visitors, including tourists, students, and workers.
Travelers who already have a valid visa will need to follow UKVI guidance to transition to the new eVisa system.
The UK government emphasizes that all travelers must check their eVisa and ensure travel details, including passport information, are up to date before departure.
