Jane Marriott, British High Commissioner to Pakistan. Photo: Facebook/UK Pakistan
ISLAMABAD:
Pakistani nationals traveling to the United Kingdom can now access a fully digital visa system, eliminating the need for physical visa stickers in passports and streamlining the application process, the British High Commission in Islamabad announced on Tuesday.
Under the new arrangement, visitors – including tourists, business travelers and those visiting family – will continue to submit applications online and visit a visa application center to provide biometric data.
However, successful applicants will now receive electronic confirmation of their immigration status via an eVisa, rather than returning to collect their passport with visa stickers affixed.
The eVisa creates a secure digital record of a traveler’s immigration status, accessible through a UK Visas and Immigration online account. Applicants will be able to keep their passport after their biometric appointment, eliminating the need for a second visit to the visa center and potentially reducing waiting times and logistical inconvenience.
High Commissioner Jane Marriott described the move as an important development for Pakistani travelers. “This is an extremely exciting step for Pakistanis visiting the UK for tourism, to visit loved ones or for business meetings, which removes an important step from the application process,” she said.
Applicants issued with an eVisa will be able to generate a share code to prove their immigration status at the UK borders and, where applicable, to other relevant authorities. “By saving time holding on to your passport, the new share code system makes it easier than ever to demonstrate your visa status,” Marriott said.
There are no changes to visa processing times, eligibility requirements or visa requirements. The High Commission stressed that visa applicants are strongly advised against 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 rollout for international students and people on work visas. According to the high commission, thousands of travelers around the world have already used the digital system at UK airports.
The authorities clarified that existing visas with stickers 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.
