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UK Launches E-Visa for Pakistani Students in 2025
Major Update to UK Immigration: Digital E-Visas Now Available for Pakistanis
In a major update to its immigration system, the United Kingdom has officially launched e-visas for Pakistani students and workers, replacing the need for physical visa documents for most long-term categories. The announcement came on Tuesday, just one day after the UK and Pakistan signed a Trade Dialogue Mechanism Agreement to enhance bilateral cooperation.
This move marks a significant step in the UK’s journey toward a fully digital immigration system, which was first announced in 2024.
What Is an E-Visa for the UK?
A UK e-visa is a digital proof of immigration status that replaces physical documents such as visa stickers or biometric residence permits. It’s linked to the applicant’s passport and stored securely in an online UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration) account.
According to the British High Commission (BHC) in Islamabad, this system is already being used in other immigration routes and is now being expanded to Pakistani nationals applying for student and worker visas for more than six months.
Who Is Eligible for the UK E-Visa from Pakistan?
As of July 2025, the following categories of Pakistani applicants are eligible for the UK digital e-visa:
âś… Student Visas
Including short-term study up to 11 months
âś… Work Visas
Skilled Worker Visa (including health and care sector)
Global Talent Visa
International Sportsperson Visa
Youth Mobility Scheme
âś… Global Business Mobility Routes
Senior or Specialist Worker
Graduate Trainee
UK Expansion Worker
Service Supplier
Secondment Worker
âś… Temporary Work Routes
Charity Worker
Creative Worker
Government Authorised Exchange
International Agreement
Religious Worker
Note: Applicants applying as dependents or under non-work/study categories (e.g., visitor visa) will still receive a physical visa sticker.
Existing Visa Holders: Do You Need to Do Anything?
If you already have a valid physical UK visa, you don’t need to take any action. Your immigration status remains unchanged, and your current visa will stay valid until it expires.
Going forward, when renewing or applying for a new visa under eligible categories, your immigration permission will be issued in digital format only.
Benefits of the UK E-Visa System
British High Commissioner Jane Marriott highlighted several benefits for Pakistani applicants, including:
Faster processing and less paperwork
No need to submit or surrender your passport
Easier and more secure international travel
Ability to access and share your visa details online anytime
Reduced risk of lost or stolen visa documents
How Does the UKVI Account Work?
To access your digital immigration status, you’ll need to create a UKVI account, which is now a requirement for visa holders staying in the UK for more than six months.
Through this online portal, you can:
View your immigration status
Update your personal information
Link your visa to your passport for international travel
Share your status when needed by employers, landlords, or border authorities
UK Plans Full Transition to Digital Visas
The introduction of e-visas for students and workers is part of the UK’s broader 2024 commitment to move to a fully digital immigration system. According to the UK government, this system will soon be expanded to include all visa categories.
This update aligns with global trends toward digitization and represents a major leap forward in how immigration is managed.
Final Thoughts: A Big Step for Pakistani Students and Professionals
The launch of UK e-visas in July 2025 is great news for Pakistani students and skilled professionals planning to move to the UK. With simpler documentation, faster access, and a more secure process, the digital visa system is designed to enhance the applicant experience.
Need help applying for your UK e-visa?
Our certified counsellors and visa experts can guide you through the process — from preparing your documents to setting up your UKVI account.
đź“ž Contact us today to start your UK visa journey with ease!