In a significant move to digitise and streamline the UK student visa process, the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) has announced that from mid-July 2025, all out-of-country student visa applicants (excluding visit visa holders) granted entry clearance will no longer receive a physical visa vignette in their passports. Instead, they will be issued an eVisa, accessible through their UKVI account.
This update was formally announced by UKVI on Tuesday, June 24, 2025. The transition marks a major step in the UK government’s effort to modernise its immigration system, aiming for greater convenience, efficiency, and security.
What is an eVisa?
An eVisa is a digital record of a person’s UK immigration status, replacing physical documents and traditional paper documents such as the Biometric Residence Permit (BRP). It enables travellers to prove their right to enter, live, or work in the UK securely and conveniently.
Students staying in the UK for more than six months are required to hold an eVisa.
Key Changes for International Students:
Students applying for a visa from outside the UK (except for visit visa routes) will now:
Only need to attend the Visa Application Centre (VAC) once to enrol their biometrics and have their passport scanned.
Collect their passport within three hours of the appointment, with no physical visa vignette inside.
Access their immigration status digitally through their UKVI account using their eVisa.
Important: This change does not apply to dependents such as partners or children. Dependent applicants will continue to receive both a physical vignette and an eVisa.
Similarly, students on short-term visit visas for study will still receive a vignette and may need to return to the VAC to collect it unless they have opted for the courier delivery service.
How can you access your eVisa?
To access your eVisa, you must first create a free UKVI account, verify your identity, and link your valid passport to the account. Once set up, you can use the eVisa, alongside your passport, for travel to the UK. Students can update their personal details through their UKVI accounts.
What Students Need to Do:
Upon receiving their visa decision email, granting entry clearance (except for students on visit visas), students must log in to their UKVI account and check their eVisa details.
From mid-July, if any information on the eVisa is incorrect, students must report the issue immediately before travelling to the UK by visiting: https://www.gov.uk/report-error-evisa
For further concerns or any other issues related to their eVisa, they can contact UKVI directly: https://www.gov.uk/contact-ukvi-inside-outside-uk
Students must also ensure their current passport is correctly linked to their UKVI account before travel. If they do not already have a UKVI account, they should follow the guidance provided in their grant notification email.
Benefits of the eVisa system include:
Enhanced security. eVisas cannot be lost, stolen, or tampered with.
No need to wait for or collect physical documents after your visa is granted.
Simpler and faster border checks
Easy digital sharing of immigration status with employers, landlords, or educational institutions.
This shift reflects the UK government’s wider commitment to modernising its border system while improving the student experience. For students preparing to start their academic journey in the UK this fall, timely account setup and verification will ensure smooth entry and peace of mind.
Stay ahead with the latest eVisa updates and ensure a smooth journey to the UK. Connect with ScholarshipKart today for personalised visa support and end-to-end guidance from your trusted UK study partner, apply and travel with confidence.