The United Kingdom has made the visa application process easier for Pakistani citizens by introducing a new e-visa system.
This change means travelers no longer need a visa sticker on their passports for tourism, business, or family visits to the UK.
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According to Jean Merritt of the British High Commission, while visa applications must still be submitted online, applicants will now receive digital confirmation of their immigration status via email once their application is approved. However, biometric data collection will still require a visit to a visa application center.
The new system eliminates the need for successful applicants to visit the visa center again to collect their passports after biometric verification.
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This change aims to reduce the risk of lost or damaged documents. Applicants can verify their visa status using a share code, adding convenience and security.
Merritt emphasized that the e-visa system does not change visa processing times, eligibility criteria, or requirements. The system is designed to simplify the process, allowing Pakistani applicants to submit their applications directly instead of going through agents.
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Previously, the e-visa system was introduced for student and work visas, and now it is expanded to include tourist, business, and family visit visas.
However, these changes will not affect applicants who already hold traditional sticker visas.
