UK Switches to eVisas: No More Passport Stickers From February 2026

The UK Has Gone Digital

Starting February 25, 2026, the United Kingdom has officially stopped issuing visa vignettes (stickers) in passports for tourist visas. Instead, all approved visas are now issued as eVisas — fully digital.

How It Works

Once your visa application is approved, you'll need to:

1. Create an account in the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) system
2. Access your visa online through your account

No physical sticker will be placed in your passport. The official guidance is available on the UK Government website.

The Transitional Period

There's an important exception. If your application form and consular fee were paid before February 25, 2026, you will still receive a traditional visa sticker — even if your biometrics appointment was after that date.

The determining factor is the date of payment and application submission, not the date of your visit to the visa center.

Why This Is Good News

• Keep your passport. No more handing it over for weeks while your application is processed.
• Travel freely. Other trips don't need to be put on hold because your passport is sitting at the embassy.
• Simpler process. The whole procedure becomes more convenient and predictable.

Preparing Your Application

Whether you're applying under the new eVisa system or the transitional rules, you'll still need compliant passport-sized photos. With iShotaPhoto, you can prepare UK-standard photos from home — no need to spend extra time at the visa center.