UK Visa Reforms to Simplify Process for Pakistani Students and Workers: British High Commissioner
UK Introduces New UK E-Visa System for Pakistani Students & Workers. The UK Government has announced replacing physical immigration documents for most student and worker visas with a digital proof of immigration status, an E-Visa, for Pakistani citizens with effect from July 15.
An E-Visa is an online record of a person’s immigration permission in the UK, and any conditions which apply, which can be viewed by creating and accessing an online UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account.
E-Visas are part of an enhanced border and immigration system that will not only make the visa process easier, but is more secure, digital and streamlined.
British High Commissioner to Pakistan Jane Marriott said these changes to the UK visa system will make it much simpler for students and workers to prove their identity and visa status. It also means applicants can hold onto their passports, saving them time.
She clarified that updating from a physical document to an E-Visa does not affect anyone’s immigration status or the conditions of their permission to enter or stay in the UK.
Who Are Eligible for UK E-Visas
Students, including short term study for 11 months
Global Business Mobility routes (specifically, Senior or Specialist Worker, Graduate Trainee, UK Expansion Worker, Service Supplier, Secondment Worker)
Global Talent
International Sportsperson
Skilled Worker (including Health and Care)
Temporary Work routes (specifically, Charity Worker, Creative Worker, Government Authorised Exchange, International Agreement, and Religious work routes)
Youth Mobility Scheme
No E-Visa for These Individuals
Applicants applying as a dependant, or as a main applicant for visas other than study or work, e.g. general visitor visas, will still need a physical sticker visa. Anyone with existing, in date, physical visa stickers do not need to take any action.
What’s the Process?
Holders can link their travel document (such as passport) to their UKVI account to facilitate straightforward international travel.
People who have created a UKVI account will be able to use the view and prove service to prove their status securely with third parties, such as employers or landlords (in England).
Earlier, effective December 11, the UK government had updated its guidance on criminal record checks for visa applications, overseas employment, and volunteering. Key changes include mandatory checks for health and education sector jobs and a requirement for visa applicants—under routes like the Skilled Worker visa—to provide criminal record certificates from all countries lived in for 12+ months over the past 10 years. Dependent partners must also comply.
The ACRO Criminal Records Office will issue police certificates, while roles involving children require an International Child Protection Certificate (ICPC). Employers must now factor these checks into hiring processes, with additional preparation time needed for applicants. These measures aim to enhance security and protect vulnerable groups.
