UK Visas and Immigration have recently announced a series of updates rolling out through early 2026. These changes affect travellers, employers, visa holders, and anyone interacting with UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
This blog breaks down the most significant updates including what’s changing, when it’s changing, and what action individuals and organisations need to take.
UKVI is moving towards fully digital immigration status (eVisas)
UKVI has continued to transition away from physical documents (like BRPs, vignettes, and stickers) and toward digital-only immigration status, known as an eVisa. Updated guidance issued on the 28th January outlines who can now create a UKVI account and how to access an eVisa. The announcement also states that you will start receiving an eVisa only for applications made on or after the 25th February 2026.
This shift forms part of the UK government's long-term digitalisation strategy and promises easier, more secure access to immigration information, but also requires visa holders to proactively maintain accurate details in their UKVI accounts.
What this means for individuals:
A UKVI online account is becoming essential, not optional. Anyone holding an eVisa must ensure that passport numbers and personal details are kept up to date. Most physical visa documents will be phased out throughout 2026.
Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) will become mandatory
From the 25th February 2026, the UK will strictly enforce its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) requirement. Visitors from 85 visa‑free countries must apply for digital permission before travelling to the UK. Carriers will legally be required to deny boarding to passengers who need an ETA but do not have one.
This change mirrors systems already in place in countries such as the US and Canada and represents a shift toward pre‑travel security screening.
Key details about ETAs:
An ETA is required for many short-term visitors, even those who previously didn’t need any documentation. Applications must be approved before travel—there is no longer discretion at the border or by airlines. British and Irish citizens, including dual nationals, must travel using a British or Irish passport and are not eligible for an ETA.
To check if you require an ETA visit the UK Government’s website.
Visitor visas will become fully digital
In another step toward full digitalisation, visitor visas will be issued exclusively as eVisas from the 25th February 2026. Physical visa vignettes will no longer be provided and online UKVI accounts will become the central access point for visa evidence and record‑keeping.
Digital proof of status is also expanding for exempt applicants, who will now receive a Digital Record of Exemption instead of a physical document.
What visitors to the UK must do:
Visitors to the UK must ensure they have a functioning UKVI online account before travelling and double‑check that passport details match their digital status.
What solicitors need to do
As the UK’s immigration system becomes fully digital, understanding the latest UKVI guidance is essential for avoiding travel issues and ensuring compliance. Here are some actions to take to avoid delays or refusals for ongoing applications:
- Review all ongoing cases that rely on physical documents
- Advise clients to set up and check their UKVI accounts
- Prepare clients for a digital-only evidence landscape
- Ensure travellers understand ETA requirements and timelines.
UKVI’s continuing digitisation increases reliance on verified, formal evidence. While this doesn’t directly change the DNA testing policy, it elevates expectations for clear, authoritative documentation - making DNA evidence more important when the digital case record must show unquestionable links.
For the full announcement about these updates, please visit the UK Government’s website.
We will continue to monitor and explain further updates as the digital rollout progresses. Sign up to our mailing list using to form below to receive this straight to your inbox.