UK Introduces eVisas for Student and Skilled Worker Categories

Strategic Insights -

International students and foreign workers entering the United Kingdom are experiencing a change in the visa application procedure as the UK has introduced eVisas for student and skilled worker categories. From July 15, online applications for eVisas will allow applicants to submit biometrics and collect their passport on the same day, eliminating the need to return to the Visa Application Centre. This new process is part of the UK's phased approach to transitioning to a digital immigration system, known as an eVisa, replacing physical documents with a digital record of identity and immigration status.

Key Takeaways:

  • The UK has introduced eVisas for student and skilled worker categories, effective from July 15, 2025.
  • Applicants will need to create a UKVI account to access their eVisa before traveling to the UK.
  • Online applications for eVisas will allow applicants to submit biometrics and collect their passport on the same day.
  • The UK is phasing out the use of physical vignettes, a sticker in a passport that indicates permission to enter and stay in the UK.
  • All UK immigrants possessing biometric residency permits (BRPs) need to open a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account to get their eVisa.
  • The new process does not apply to dependants or main applicants for visas other than work or study.
  • Applicants can expect to receive a decision on their application via email, in accordance with UKVI processing timelines.

Statistics:

  • The new eVisa system will eliminate the need for applicants to return to the Visa Application Centre to collect their biometrics.
  • The UK will transition to a digital immigration system, replacing physical documents with a digital record of identity and immigration status.
  • The eVisa application process will allow for same-day biometrics and passport collection for eligible applicants.
  • The UKVI account will required for all UK immigrants possessing biometric residency permits (BRPs) and eVisa applicants.

Sources:

  • Contify.com, a news and information distribution service.