The UK Home Office has begun its phased transition to eVisas, replacing the traditional visa vignette (physical sticker) on passports. Effective July 15, 2025, the new system will impact students and work visa holders, including thousands of Indian students preparing to study in the UK this September.
This move is part of a broader digital transformation in UK immigration services, aiming to offer greater convenience, security, and real-time accessibility.
What Is Changing?
According to official updates from UKVI and recent coverage here are the key developments:
- Physical visa stickers (90-day vignette) are no longer issued to students.
- Students must create a UKVI digital account, as all immigration status information will be stored online.
- Digital eVisas are now directly linked to the applicant’s passport.
- Dependents and children may still receive both physical and digital versions temporarily.
- Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) will be phased out by December 2025.
This change is currently being applied to those applying for student and work visas from India, China, and other select countries, with full global rollout expected by early 2026.
Checklist for Students Flying to the UK
Before you travel, make sure to:
- Create your UKVI account (link provided in your visa decision letter).
- Link your passport to your eVisa.
- Verify all eVisa details carefully in your account.
- Generate a share code via the UKVI platform to present your immigration status to your university or employer.
Students will not receive a physical sticker on their passport. Instead, they must carry a valid passport and be ready to show their eVisa via UKVI share code at immigration checkpoints.
Why It Matters for Indian Students
For Indian students, especially those departing in August and September for the upcoming intake, this transition is significant. It means no more delays due to misplaced stickers, less paperwork, and a digitally traceable visa process.
But it also demands awareness and digital readiness. Any mistake in UKVI account setup or unlinked passports may result in travel disruptions or denial of boarding.
Universities, agents, and students alike must now ensure timely account creation and document verification
Key Takeaways:
We urge all recruitment partners to:
- Educate applicants about the new digital process.
- Ensure UKVI account registration is done immediately after receiving the visa decision letter.
- Assist students in generating the share code well in advance.
- Review and double-check all travel documentation.
This update reflects the UK’s growing focus on paperless, secure, and efficient international mobility. While the move promises long-term efficiency, short-term lapses in awareness may lead to major last-minute issues.
