The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) has announced that visitors to the United Kingdom who require entry visas will no longer receive physical visa documents from February 25, 2026.

The agency disclosed the development in a statement posted on its official X (formerly Twitter) account on Friday, confirming that eligible travellers will instead be issued electronic visas, known as eVisas.

“From 25 February 2026 visitors to the UK, who need a visa, will get an eVisa only. Create your UKVI account and view your eVisa before you travel to the UK,” the statement read.

According to the UK government, an eVisa is a digital record of a person’s identity and immigration status. It contains details such as the type of visa granted or whether the holder has indefinite leave to remain (settlement) in the UK, as well as the conditions attached to the status, including permission to work or study.

The government explained that eVisas are gradually replacing physical immigration documents. Biometric residence permits (BRPs) have already been phased out in favour of eVisas, while biometric residence cards (BRCs) and wet-ink visa vignettes (passport stickers) will also be discontinued.

Travellers will typically receive a eVisa once their visa or other immigration application is approved. After issuance, holders can access their status online through a UKVI account, generate a share code to prove their immigration status when required, such as for employment or renting accommodation, and update their passport or travel document details before travelling.

The UK government further clarified that access to an eVisa requires setting up a UKVI account, which is free of charge.
“You do not need to pay to set up a UKVI account or access your eVisa,” the government website stated.