February 20, 2026 | 08:27 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The government of the United Kingdom has initiated a major transformation in its immigration system by discontinuing physical documents starting from February 25, 2026. The country will now only issue e-Visas to replace visa stickers (vignettes), physical documents, and Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs). This move is part of a comprehensive digital border modernization effort, including expediting the airport entry process to reduce waiting time for foreign tourists.
Every visitor will be required to have an online Visa & Immigration UKVI account, as reported by Travel and Tour. The e-Visa will be directly linked to the passport via the "Digital Border Tripod" system, which automatically synchronizes Advanced Passenger Information (API) and Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA).
Travelers must ensure that their data is synchronized, as discrepancies could result in boarding rejections. Additionally, travelers with more than one passport or those who have recently renewed their travel documents are required to promptly report these changes to their UKVI accounts to avoid technical complications.
The importance of migrating to this digital system is also emphasized by the official Instagram account @UKinIndonesia for Indonesian travelers. "Starting February 25, 2026, applicants for visit visas to the UK will receive an eVisa (electronic visa) replacing visa stickers (vignettes) in the passport," as stated in the post.
You can create a UKVI account for free through the official UK government website. To do so, you will need your passport and email address, as reported by Travel+Leisure. Local authorities have stated that this new system is much more efficient, allowing users to generate a "share code" to prove their immigration status to third parties without paper documents. Long-term visa holders who still possess old physical documents are strongly advised to promptly migrate to e-Visas to ensure the continued validity of their immigration data.
On the other hand, the requirement for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) now applies to travelers from visa-exempt countries. Airlines now bear greater responsibility in verifying passengers' digital status before departure. Therefore, it is highly recommended that every traveler recheck their UKVI account at least 24 hours before departure to ensure that their immigration data is synchronized with their latest passport information. The British government assures us that they have strengthened its cybersecurity system to protect the personal data of all visitors during this digital transition period.
Imanda Zahwa contributed to this article
Read: From Boom to Burden: How Overtourism Hit European Cities
Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News
China Expands Visa-Free Entry for Most of Europe
22 hari lalu
China's visa-free entry policy for a significant number of countries makes it easier for European citizens to travel there.
How to Apply for a New Zealand Working Holiday Visa in 2026
23 hari lalu
Find out what you need to prepare to obtain a Working Holiday Visa for New Zealand.
Australia Cancels Israeli Influencer Visa Over Islamophobic Remarks
24 hari lalu
An Israeli influencer has been denied entry to Australia after being accused of spreading hatred towards Islam.
VFS Global Warns Travelers Against Visa Fraud
27 hari lalu
The increasing demand for visa appointments ahead of the holiday season has led to a surge in fraudulent activities.
What to Know About Indonesia's New 7-Day Visa on Arrival for Batam
29 hari lalu
Indonesia's Batam immigration office is promoting a seven-day Visa on Arrival for foreign tourists on short visits to Batam and the Riau Islands.
U.S. to Suspend Immigrant Visa Processing for 75 Countries
36 hari lalu
The Trump administration will suspend immigrant visa processing for 75 countries from Jan. 21, citing welfare concerns, while tightening screening.
Malaysia Surpasses Thailand as Tourist Arrivals Reach 38.3 Million
39 hari lalu
A high increase in tourist visits to Malaysia in 2025 is attributed to flexible visa policies and enhanced infrastructure.
What to Know About Bulgaria's New Digital Nomad Visa Scheme
49 hari lalu
Bulgaria officially opens registration for digital nomad residency permit for the first time, offering a new immigration route for remote workers.
US Overhauls H-1B Visa to Favor High-Skilled, Top Earners
56 hari lalu
The US is replacing the H-1B visa lottery with a system favoring high-skilled, high-paid workers. New rules start in 2026 to protect American wages.
US Imposes Visa Ban on Former EU Commissioner
58 hari lalu
The U.S. government has imposed visa bans on the former European Union commissioner and anti-disinformation activists.
