The UK vida and immigration (UKVI) has announced that travellers who require visas to enter the United Kingdom will no longer receive physical visa stickers or documents starting February 25, 2026.
In a statement shared on X on Friday, the agency confirmed that eligible visitors will instead be issued an electronic visa, known as an eVisa, marking a major step in the country’s transition to a fully digital immigration system.
Under the new policy, the UK eVisa system will replace traditional visa vignettes (stickers) placed inside passports. Visitors will be required to create a UKVI account to access and view their digital immigration status before travelling.
“From 25 February 2026, visitors to the UK who need a visa will get an eVisa only. Create your UKVI account and view your eVisa before you travel to the UK,” the statement read.
According to the UK government, an eVisa is a secure online record of a person’s identity and immigration status. It contains details such as the type of visa granted and the conditions attached to it, including whether the holder is permitted to work or study in the UK.
The transition to the UK eVisa system is part of broader reforms aimed at digitising border and immigration processes. Authorities noted that biometric residence permits (BRPs) have already been replaced by eVisas. The digital format will also replace biometric residence cards (BRCs) and wet-ink stamps or visa stickers previously issued in passports.
Travellers will typically receive an eVisa once their visa or permission to stay in the UK is approved. After issuance, users can log into their UKVI account to view their status and generate a share code, which may be required when proving immigration status for employment or accommodation purposes.
The government emphasised that setting up a UKVI account is free of charge and necessary to access the UK eVisa system. Travellers must also ensure their passport or travel document details are linked to their account before departure.