E-Visa
ISLAMABAD: The UK High Commission in Pakistan has officially launched a new e-visa system designed to streamline the visa application process for Pakistani students and workers who wish to travel to the United Kingdom for education or employment purposes.
This innovative digital platform eliminates the need for traditional visa stickers in passports for most applicants, marking a significant step toward modernization and convenience in immigration procedures.
According to an official announcement from the UK High Commission, Pakistani students and workers will now be able to access and verify their immigration status entirely online through the secure e-visa portal.
This means that instead of waiting for physical visa stamps in their passports, travelers can simply view their digital visa status anytime and anywhere, reducing paperwork and enhancing ease of travel.
Jane Marriott, the UK High Commissioner to Pakistan, highlighted the benefits of the new system, emphasizing how it aligns with global trends. “Millions of individuals are already using e-visas across various immigration routes,” she stated.
Marriott added that this transition to a fully digital system will simplify the overall visa application experience, making it more accessible and less time-consuming for applicants. She also reassured travelers that the e-visa platform allows visa holders to retain possession of their passports throughout the process, providing greater flexibility and security.
Importantly, the UK High Commission clarified that switching to an e-visa format will not alter an individual’s immigration status or the conditions attached to their visa. All rights, restrictions, and privileges remain the same, but the method of documentation has been updated to a more efficient digital format.
The new e-visa system is also expected to ease interactions with key stakeholders such as airport officials, employers, and landlords by providing a straightforward and reliable way to prove one’s immigration status without the need for physical documents. This change aims to reduce delays and misunderstandings at various checkpoints.
It is important to note that while the e-visa system is being rolled out for most student and work visa applicants, visa stickers will still be required for certain categories, including dependents and visitor visas.
The UK High Commission plans to gradually expand the e-visa service to encompass all visa types in the near future, continuing its commitment to enhancing the visa process and strengthening UK-Pakistan ties through improved mobility and cooperation.
