UK Makes Getting a Visa Easier for Pakistanis

The United Kingdom has rolled out e-Visas for most Pakistani students and workers, according to an announcement from the British High Commission in Islamabad.

Jane Marriott, the UK’s High Commissioner to Pakistan, shared on social media that the new system will apply to most students and workers seeking visas for stays longer than six months. She highlighted that the e-Visa system is designed to be more convenient and secure, allowing applicants to keep their passports during the process.

With this update, applicants will no longer need to submit their passports for visa stickers, as the UK is moving away from physical visa labels for the majority of study and work visas starting July 15. Instead, successful applicants will receive a digital record of their immigration status, accessible through a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) online account.

The UK is launching eVisas in Pakistan for most students and workers applying for more than 6 months! It will make it simpler and safer, and you can hold on to your passport.

To find out more on eVisas and see whether you’re eligible, go to https://t.co/AHI9nWSoxw pic.twitter.com/tlZNSs2NpD

— Jane Marriott (@JaneMarriottUK) July 15, 2025

The e-Visa acts as an online confirmation of a person’s permission to enter or stay in the UK, including any conditions attached to their stay. This digital approach is expected to make it easier for individuals to prove their identity and visa status, as well as to share this information securely with employers, landlords, or other relevant parties using the “view and prove” service.

The transition to e-Visas covers main applicants in several categories, including students (even those on 11-month short-term study visas), skilled workers (such as those in health and care roles), global talent, international sportspersons, and participants in temporary work schemes like charity or creative work. The Youth Mobility Scheme and Global Business Mobility routes are also included.

Dependants and those applying for non-work or non-study visas, such as general visitor visas, will continue to receive physical visa stickers for now. The UK government has indicated plans to eventually extend the e-Visa system to all visa categories, moving toward a fully digital and more secure immigration process.

Current visa holders with physical stickers do not need to take any action, as their status and rights remain unchanged.