The United Kingdom is moving to a fully digital immigration system, confirming that from February 25, 2026, visitors who require a visa will no longer receive physical visa documents.
In an announcement shared by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), authorities said all eligible travellers will instead be issued an electronic visa (eVisa), marking the final step in phasing out paper-based immigration documents.
Under the new system, an eVisa will serve as a digital record of a traveller’s identity and immigration status. It will show the type of permission granted such as a visitor visa or settlement status along with any conditions attached, including the right to work or study.
The transition follows earlier reforms that replaced biometric residence permits (BRPs) with digital records. Biometric residence cards (BRCs) and traditional visa stickers, commonly known as vignettes, will also be discontinued as part of the overhaul.
From late February 2026, travellers must create and access a UKVI account to view their eVisa before travelling. The account allows users to check their status, update passport details, and generate a share code to prove their immigration status when required such as when applying for a job or renting accommodation.
UK authorities have clarified that setting up a UKVI account and accessing an eVisa is free of charge.
Officials say the move will streamline border processes, enhance security, and modernise how immigration status is recorded and verified, aligning the UK with a broader global shift toward digital travel documentation.