-
Travellers to Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man may still receive a sticker visa
-
All e-visa holders must keep their UKVI account updated with current passport details to avoid travel problems
From 25 February, the United Kingdom has shifted to a fully digital visa system. Under the new rules introduced by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), most Indian travellers will now receive an electronic visa, or e-visa, instead of a sticker placed inside their passport. The change is part of the UK government’s effort to modernise border control and improve security.
What has changed?
For Indian applicants, the basic visa application process remains largely the same. However, there are two key differences:
- You no longer need to submit your passport during the application process.
- Successful applicants will receive an e-visa instead of a physical visa sticker or immigration stamp.
How to apply
To apply for a standard short-term visa to England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland, applicants must complete the online form on the official UK government website. The required documents remain unchanged. You can upload them yourself free of charge or choose to have them uploaded at a VFS Global centre for an additional fee of around ₹1,700.
The visa fee for a standard short-term visit is approximately ₹16,210. After submitting the form and paying the fee, applicants must book a biometric appointment at a VFS centre anywhere in India, depending on availability. At this stage, you will not be required to leave your passport behind.
Most decisions are made within three weeks. Once approved, you must create a UKVI online account to access your e-visa. This account links your passport details to your visa and is used for identity checks at UK airports.
