🇬🇧 UK Goes Fully Digital: No More Visa Stickers for Families and Workers from October 2025
In a landmark move toward a fully digital immigration system, the United Kingdom has announced that from October 30, 2025, applicants for work, study, and family visas — including their dependents — will receive a digital e-visa instead of a physical visa sticker (known as a vignette).
This digital shift will also apply to individuals applying for indefinite leave to enter (settlement), as part of the UK’s ongoing modernization of its immigration services.
From Paper to Digital: What’s Changing?
According to the UK Home Office, successful visa applicants will have their immigration status stored electronically and accessible via a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account.
This e-visa will act as the official proof of immigration status, linked directly to the passport or travel document of the holder.
“If you or your dependents make successful applications for certain work, study, and family visas, or for settlement, you may not get a vignette if you apply on or after 30 October 2025,” the department confirmed.
The government emphasized that visa rules and eligibility remain unchanged — only the method of verification is moving online.
Why the Shift Matters
This update builds on the July 2025 rollout, which first introduced digital status for main applicants of work and study visas.
Now, dependents and family members are included, creating a unified digital immigration experience for all applicants.
The UK government believes this transition will:
- Make travel verification faster and more reliable
- Eliminate risks of lost or damaged visa stickers
- Enhance security and convenience for both travelers and authorities
To support this transition, the government has also announced £400,000 in funding to help community organizations assist vulnerable groups in setting up their UKVI accounts.
Toward a Fully Digital Immigration Future
By 2025, the UK aims to establish a completely paperless immigration system, allowing visa holders to easily share their status with employers, landlords, and public institutions through secure online verification.
This modernization reflects a global shift toward technology-driven migration systems, improving transparency and efficiency for millions of travelers and residents.
🔗 Expert Insight from Xiphias Immigration
At Xiphias Immigration, we’re helping clients adapt smoothly to evolving visa systems across the globe.
If you’re planning to apply for a UK work, study, or family visa, our experts can guide you step-by-step through the digital e-visa process and ensure compliance with the latest requirements.
Book a Consultation with our UK immigration specialists today to stay ahead of the changes.
FAQs on UK’s Digital Visa Rollout
1. Who will receive e-visas from October 2025?
Dependents, as well as applicants for work, study, and family visas — including settlement (indefinite leave to enter) — will receive digital immigration status instead of physical stickers.
2. Will visa eligibility or rules change?
No. The eligibility criteria and visa requirements remain the same; only the method of proof changes from physical to digital.
3. How can I access my e-visa?
You can view and manage your e-visa through your UKVI online account, which links your immigration record to your passport.
4. What happens to my old vignette or Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)?
Existing visa holders can continue using their documents, but are encouraged to set up a UKVI account to prepare for the full digital transition.
5. Why is the UK making this change?
To simplify immigration management, reduce paperwork, enhance security, and align with the UK’s vision of a fully digital immigration system by 2025.
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