- By Chetna Shree
- Thu, 19 Feb 2026 04:18 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
UK Visa New Rules 2026:The United Kingdom (UK) is set to phase out all physical visa documents and move to e-visas from February 25, 2026. This shift will replace all physical documents, such as Biometric Residence Permit (BRPs), Biometric Residence Card (BRCs) and paper stamps, with e-visas linked to your passport through a UKVI account.
The move is part of the UK's digital border shift, which also includes the rollout of Electronic Travel Authorisations (ETAs) for visa-exempt travellers. With this, the government aims to reduce administrative delays, minimise the risk of document loss, and simplify the entry process for visitors arriving in the country.
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UK Visa New Rules 2026: What's Changing?
Starting February 25, 2026, the United Kingdom will shift to e-visas, marking the end of visa vignette stickers and other physical proofs of status, NDTV reported.
- Physical documents such as Biometric Residence Permit (BRPs), Biometric Residence Card (BRCs) and paper stamps will no longer be issued.
- Vignette stickers will be phased out completely by late 2026.
- Existing holders of valid physical documents will move to digital status without having to submit a new visa application.
Planning To Visit UK? Here's What You Need To Know
Starting February 25, 2026, if you are travelling to the UK for visiting purposes, you must hold a digital e-visa linked to your passport via a UKVI account. Before your trip, you must check that your details are accurate and up to date. This is a crucial step as airlines will check your digital authorisation at boarding. If your digital approval is missing or contains incorrect information, you may be denied boarding.
- Sign in to your existing UKVI account or create a new one.
- Ensure that your passport details match the information stored in your digital record.
- If you renew your passport, you must update your UKVI account. Make sure to travel with the same passport linked to your digital status.
- Check your e-visa online before your trip and follow any specific instructions issued by the authorities.
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What Changes For Visa-Exempt Travellers and Dual Nationals?
- Visa-Exempt Travellers: From February 25, 2026, travellers from visa-exempt countries, including those from the EU, EEA, Switzerland, the USA, Canada and Australia, will have to hold a valid electronic travel authorisation (ETA) before travelling to the UK. An ETA costs £16 and can be used for multiple visits over two years or until the passport expires.
- Dual Nationals: Starting February 25, 2026, British Dual Nationals are required to use their British or Irish passport, or a Certificate of Entitlement to the Right of Abode, alongside the passport of their other nationality.