Applicants will still visit centres for biometric enrolment but will no longer have to leave their passport during visa processing.
The United Kingdom has started a fully digital travel authorisation system, bringing major changes to how people from India and around the world will travel to the UK. The traditional visa sticker placed inside passports will be replaced by digital visas and travel authorisations.
Under the new system, Indian travellers who need to apply for a UK visa such as for tourism, work, study or visiting family will receive an electronic visa (eVisa) instead of a physical visa sticker in their passport. This change is part of the UK government’s effort to modernise and simplify visa procedures. Applicants will still visit centres for biometric enrolment but will no longer have to leave their passport during visa processing.
In addition, the UK has made the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) mandatory for people from 85 visa-exempt countries. These are countries whose citizens did not previously need a standard visa to visit the UK. Now, before travelling, they must apply for an ETA online and receive approval. Without this digital authorisation or an eVisa, travellers can be denied boarding by airlines.
An ETA costs £16 and is usually valid for two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. It allows travellers to visit the UK for short stays, such as for tourism or business. But final entry is always decided by UK border officials when the traveller arrives.
UK authorities have warned that airlines and carriers will check digital travel authorisation before departure. Travellers should ensure they hold either a valid eVisa, ETA, or accepted documentation before going to the airport.
The UK government says the digital system will help strengthen border security and make travel smoother for both passengers and immigration officials. Travellers are advised to verify and update their information online before planning their trip to avoid delays or travel issues.
What Indian Travellers Should Do Before Visiting the UK
- Apply for the appropriate UK visa (tourist, work, study or family visit). Approved applicants will receive a digital eVisa instead of a visa sticker in their passport.
- Visit the visa application centre for biometric enrolment (fingerprints and photograph). However, passports will not need to be submitted during processing.
- Create and regularly check the online account with UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), where the digital visa status will be stored.
- Ensure passport details are correctly updated in the UKVI account. Any mismatch between passport information and digital records may cause travel issues.
- Travel using the same passport that was used during the visa application. If a new passport is issued, details must be updated online before departure.
- Confirm that the eVisa approval is linked to the passport before travelling, as airlines will verify digital immigration status prior to boarding.
- Keep a copy of the visa approval email or digital confirmation for reference during travel.
