The United Kingdom has announced changes to its visa issuance process for individuals applying to work or study in the country, effective from July 15, 2025.
In a statement released by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) on Tuesday, the government revealed that it would stop issuing vignettes - visa stickers placed in passports - for some applicants. The vignette previously served as temporary travel permission, allowing successful applicants to enter the UK and collect their full visa (Biometric Residence Permit) upon arrival.
Under the new system, eligible applicants will instead be issued a digital visa.
This change means they will no longer need to leave their passports at the Visa Application Centre (VAC) while the sticker is processed.
