IBNS-CMEDIA: The UK Government has rolled out its fully digital eVisa system for Indian nationals from Wednesday (February 25), marking a significant shift in how visitors apply for and manage their UK visas.
According to a statement issued by the British Deputy High Commission Kolkata, the move represents a major milestone in the digital transformation of the UK’s border and immigration system. The transition is aimed at making travel more convenient and secure for global visitors, including those from India.
The new eVisa replaces the traditional visa vignette sticker previously affixed to physical passports. Instead, visitors will receive a secure digital immigration record accessible through their UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) online account, linked directly to their passport.
This will allow applicants to apply, store, manage, and present their visa information digitally.
What Changes for Travellers?
With the introduction of eVisas, UK-bound visitors will be able to access their visa details online through their UKVI account. All immigration information will be stored securely in digital format, eliminating the need to submit passports for physical visa stamping.
“eVisas will enhance convenience in the customer journey. It will provide an advanced digital system reducing fraud,” the statement noted.
What About Existing Visa Stickers?
Holders of valid physical visa stickers (vignettes) can continue using them until their expiry date.
Dr. Andrew Fleming, British Deputy High Commissioner to East and Northeast India, said: “The launch of the UK eVisa is an important milestone in making travel to the UK streamlined and more efficient for Indian visitors. Visitors will benefit from a modern, secure and fully digital experience—reflecting the UK’s commitment to improving mobility, strengthening people‑to‑people ties, and supporting the growing interest in education, tourism and business links with our region.”
Ritu Varma, Country Manager, India, VisitBritain, said: “Indian travel to the UK is on a clear and accelerating growth trajectory. Visitor numbers are projected to rise from around 651,000 in 2025 to nearly one million by 2030 an increase of 53%. This momentum is being further strengthened by progressive visa reforms, particularly the introduction of the eVisa by UK Visas and Immigration, which is set to significantly enhance ease of travel, confidence, and repeat visitation from India.”
“Visitor spending is forecast to outpace volume growth, surpassing £1 billion as early as 2026 and reaching almost £1.6 billion by 2030 a 74% increase over the period. Together, simplified digital visa access and rising travel intent position India as one of the most impactful long-term growth markets for the UK, delivering substantial value to the visitor economy through higher spend, longer stays, and diversified regional travel,” Varma said.
The eVisa programme is part of the UK’s long‑term strategy to digitise, secure its borders and provide a smoother travel experience. Visitors will need to create an online UKVI account, where they can view and manage their visa.
The digital record will be automatically checked at the border—making physical visa stamps redundant.
1. No physical visa stickers from 25 February 2026
Most applicants will receive digital immigration status only. They must:
Create a UKVI account
Link their passport to their eVisa
Check and update their account details before travel
Need to attend the Visa Application Centre (VAC) only once to confirm their identity. The VAC returns their passport during the appointment – this is more convenient as they don’t need to visit again to collect a visa vignette sticker.
2. Carriers will check digital permission
Airlines and carriers will verify immigration status digitally via the information feed received from Home Office.
3. No digital permission, no travel
Visitors who fail to link their passport or claim their eVisa may be unable to board.
4. ETA requirement for non‑visa nationals (also effective 25 Feb 2026)
Nationals of visa‑exempt countries (EU/EEA/Switzerland, USA, Canada, Australia, etc.) must hold an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to travel to the UK.
