UK expands e-visa system to include biometric users from Pakistan

LONDON: The United Kingdom (UK) expanded its e-visa system to include new biometric users, aiming to streamline travel for Pakistan nationals to the UK.

According to a statement from the UK High Commission, the UK’s immigration system is undergoing a significant digital transformation.

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The new e-visa system will replace traditional visa documents with an online immigration status, which requires applicants to use a UKVI online account to manage their visas.

The new system incorporates biometric data, which will improve the “security” and “efficiency” of the visa process.

Travelers will need to provide biometric information as part of their application, a step that is designed to improve identity verification and reduce the potential for fraud.

High Commissioner Jane Marriott stated that while the new system offers “increased security” and convenience, tourists are not required to create a UKVI account specifically for travel purposes.

Instead, the account will be used to manage visa statuses and related information digitally.

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Marriott stated that the transition to a paperless system will not only quicken the processing times but also contribute to a more secure immigration framework. She noted that this change aligns with broader efforts to modernise the UK’s immigration processes.

The extension of the e-visa is expected to have a significant impact on travelers from Pakistan going to the UK. By reducing paperwork and streamlining the application process, the new system aims to facilitate smoother travel experiences.

However, some travelers may face challenges in adapting to the new digital requirements, including setting up and using the UKVI online account.

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For Pakistani applicants, the e-Visa application process will involve submitting biometric data and accessing their visa status through the UKVI online portal. Detailed instructions and support are available through the UK High Commission’s website and other official channels.