As of Wednesday, February 25, visitors travelling to the United Kingdom who require a visa will now be issued with a digital electronic visa (eVisa), as part of the UK Government’s move towards a more modern, secure, and efficient border system.

The introduction of eVisas forms part of the UK’s wider digital transformation of immigration services, making it easier for travellers to access and manage their immigration status online. Under the new system, approved visas will be securely linked to travellers’ passports and stored digitally, removing the need for physical visa stickers or paper documents.

Jamaican visitors who require a visa for tourism, business, study, or other short-term travel will receive their permission to travel in electronic form and will be able to view and manage their status through a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account.

An eVisa provides a secure digital record of a traveller’s identity, immigration status, and conditions of stay, including permission to work or study where applicable. It replaces physical immigration documents such as visa vignettes, improving convenience and security for travellers.

Jamaican travellers are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the process and ensure their eVisa is in place and correctly linked to their passport before travelling. Currently, all Jamaican visitors to the UK require a visa.

Important Information for Jamaican Dual Nationals

Meanwhile, Jamaican citizens who also hold British citizenship (dual nationals) are required to travel to the United Kingdom using a valid British passport as of February 25.

The British High Commission in Kingston strongly advise dual British citizens to make sure they have a valid British passport to avoid problems like being denied boarding when travelling to the UK from 25 February 2026.

British High Commissioner to Jamaica, Alicia Herbert, said: “We are encouraging Jamaican travellers to familiarise themselves with the new digital entry arrangements ahead of their travel time, to ensure smooth and stress-free journeys to the United Kingdom.

“The introduction of eVisas reflects the UK’s commitment to a modern, secure, and efficient border system, and we remain committed to supporting travellers throughout this transition.”

Advice to Jamaican Travellers

• Jamaican nationals who require a visa will now receive a digital eVisa.
• Travellers should create a UKVI account to view and manage their status online.
• British dual nationals should travel with a valid British passport.
• Travellers are encouraged to check UK entry requirements before booking their trip

For more information and to check what you need, visit the following sites:

https://www.gov.uk/check-uk-visa

https://www.gov.uk/evisa

https://www.gov.uk/contact-ukvi-inside-outside-uk