Article Summary

The United Kingdom has announced that most Pakistani students and work visa applicants will now receive eVisas instead of physical visa stickers, effective July 15. These digital visas will be linked to applicants' travel documents via their UKVI online accounts, streamlining the application process and border checks. This change applies to various categories including skilled workers and students, while existing physical visas remain valid and visitor/dependent routes still require physical endorsements.

TNP AI: Key Insights

This policy change is highly relevant to our audience, particularly skilled professionals and students from Pakistan, as it directly impacts their ability to pursue career and educational opportunities in the UK. The shift from physical stickers to eVisas removes a significant logistical hurdle, making the UK a more attractive and accessible destination for global talent.

Historically, visa applicants were required to submit their physical passports, leading to potential delays and anxiety over document security. This digital pivot not only enhances security by linking the eVisa directly to the passport but also eliminates processing delays and simplifies proof of status for employers and landlords. This proactive approach by the UK could influence other major immigration destinations to explore similar digital solutions, setting a new standard for international skilled worker programs.