UK Introduces E-Visas for Pakistani Travellers. In a significant step towards modernizing and streamlining visa procedures, the United Kingdom has introduced a new e-visa system for Pakistani nationals. This new digital visa initiative allows travellers to receive confirmation via email rather than traditional stickers in their passports, simplifying the process for tourists, business visitors, and those visiting family. The British High Commission in Islamabad made the announcement on February 25, 2026.
How the E-Visa System Works
Under the new system, applicants will continue to submit their visa applications online and visit a visa application centre to provide biometric information, including fingerprints and photographs. Once this step is completed, the visa will be issued digitally, and applicants will no longer need to return to the centre to collect their passports.
The digital visa, or eVisa, will create a secure online record of the applicant’s immigration status, which can be accessed through the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) online account. This process eliminates the need for multiple visits, reducing both time and travel costs for applicants.
Benefits of E-Visas for Pakistani Travellers
The British High Commission highlighted several advantages of the new e-visa system:
- No Second Visit Required: Previously, applicants had to return to the visa application centre to collect their passport. Now, after submitting biometrics, travellers can retain their passport and access their visa digitally.
- Enhanced Security: E-visas reduce the risk of lost or damaged documents. Digital records ensure that the visa status is safely stored and easily retrievable.
- Share Code Feature: Applicants can generate a unique share code to demonstrate their visa status at UK borders, airports, and other locations, making the process more efficient and transparent.
- Time-Saving: By removing the second visit requirement, applicants save valuable time and can focus on their travel plans rather than administrative procedures.
No Change in Visa Conditions or Processing Times
The British High Commission clarified that the e-visa system does not affect eligibility criteria, visa conditions, or processing times. Applicants must still meet all standard requirements for UK visas.
Existing sticker visas remain valid, and travellers already holding these visas do not need to switch to the e-visa system. The e-visa initiative is primarily aimed at new applicants.
Statement from British High Commissioner
British High Commissioner Jane Marriott described the launch as “a hugely exciting step for Pakistanis visiting the UK for tourism, visiting loved ones, or business meetings.”
She emphasized that the system removes a major step from the application process, allowing applicants to retain their passports and manage their visa digitally. The share code system, according to Marriott, also simplifies proof of visa status at borders and other checkpoints.
Previous Rollout for Students and Work Visa Holders
The e-visa system is not entirely new. Last year, it was successfully introduced for students and work visa applicants, allowing thousands of individuals worldwide to benefit from digital visa issuance at UK airports. The extension to tourists and family visitors marks a significant expansion of the program, reflecting the UK government’s commitment to digitally transforming immigration services.
Step-by-Step Guide for Pakistani Travellers
- Online Application: Submit the visa application online through the official UKVI portal.
- Biometric Submission: Visit the visa application centre to provide biometric information, including fingerprints and photographs.
- Digital Visa Issuance: Receive an e-visa confirmation via email, linked to the UKVI online account.
- Generate Share Code: If needed, generate a share code to demonstrate visa status at borders or other checkpoints.
- Travel with Passport: Applicants can now hold on to their passport after the biometric session without waiting for a second appointment.
This streamlined process makes travelling to the UK more convenient and efficient for Pakistani nationals.
Implications for Tourism and Business
Experts believe that the introduction of e-visas will have a positive impact on tourism and business travel between Pakistan and the UK. By reducing administrative hurdles, more travellers are likely to plan visits for leisure, family, or professional purposes.
The system also reflects the UK government’s broader commitment to digital transformation in immigration services, making travel more seamless while maintaining strict security and verification standards.
Conclusion
The launch of e-visas for Pakistani travellers marks a major step forward in simplifying UK visa procedures. With the elimination of the second visit to visa application centres, the introduction of share codes, and enhanced security for digital records, the process has become faster, safer, and more convenient.
