UK Moves to 100% Digital Visas From 2026: Travelling to the United Kingdom is about to become more digital and paper-free. From February 2026, the UK government will stop issuing physical visa documents and shift completely to an online e-visa system. This means visa stickers, paper permits and biometric cards will gradually disappear and all immigration records will be stored digitally.
According to reports published by NDTV, the new system aims to modernise border checks, improve security and make travel smoother for visitors.
The change is part of a wider digital border programme run by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), which handles visas and immigration services for the United Kingdom.
UK Moves to 100% Digital Visas From 2026
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What is changing?
Currently, many travellers receive visa vignette stickers in their passports or physical cards such as Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) or Biometric Residence Cards (BRCs). From 25 February 2026, these documents will no longer be issued.
Instead, every visa holder will get an electronic visa (e-visa). Their immigration status will be stored online and linked directly to their passport through a UKVI account.
In simple words, there will be:
- No visa stickers
- No biometric cards
- No paper documents
- Only digital records
Even people who already hold physical permits will not need to apply again. Their status will automatically move to the online system.
Why is the UK going digital?
The UK believes a digital system will be safer, faster and easier.
Paper documents can be lost, damaged or even forged. But digital records are stored securely online and can be checked instantly. This helps border officers and airlines verify a traveller’s status quickly.
Some key benefits include:
- Better security with online identity checks
- Faster processing at airports
- Less paperwork
- Easier sharing of visa status for jobs or housing
- Reduced chances of fraud or mistakes
Airlines will also be able to check visa details in real time before passengers board a flight.
What travellers must do
If you are planning to visit the UK after February 2026, you must prepare for the digital system.
Here’s what you need to do:
First, create or log in to your UKVI online account. This account will store your visa information.
Second, make sure your passport details match the information in your digital record. Even small mistakes can cause problems during travel.
Third, always use the same passport linked to your e-visa. If you renew or change your passport, update your UKVI account immediately.
Finally, check your e-visa status before travelling. Airlines will confirm your digital approval at the airport. If your details are not correct, you may not be allowed to board your flight.
What about visa-free travellers?
Travellers from countries that normally do not need a visa, such as those from the EU, USA, Canada, Australia and Switzerland, will also see changes.
They will now need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before flying to the UK.
Important points about ETA:
- It costs £16
- Valid for two years or until your passport expires
- Allows multiple visits
- Airlines will check ETA before boarding
However, remember that ETA only allows you to travel. Final entry permission is still decided by border officers.
Rules for dual nationals
British dual nationals must enter the UK using their British or Irish passport. If they use another passport, they may face delays or extra checks at the border.
Using the correct passport ensures that their digital status is recognised quickly.
Final thoughts
Overall, the UK’s move to e-visas is a big step toward a fully digital immigration system. While it removes paperwork and speeds up travel, it also means travellers must be careful with their online records.
Keeping your passport details updated and checking your digital status before flying will be very important.
If you plan to visit the UK in 2026 or later, it’s time to get ready for a paperless and fully online visa process.