The accustomed documentation like vignettes and BRPs are now being replaced with a current online digital form prompting several Gambian students requiring to adjust or face immigration complications.
Gambian students who contacted The Point asking for “clarity” also acknowledged some of the advantages involved including “accessibility and security”.
Both present and potential students also recognised that the e-visa would help in both “accessing and managing” their visa information online through an available UKVI account.
Thus, it would now prevent the need to carry physical documents which could be damaged, lost or stolen.
Additionally, the proponent of the scheme also suggests that it would potentially “speed up application processing” times which are vital for both students and officials.
The issue of accessibility is also highlighted taking into account that the digital design would also allow easier sharing of relevant visa information with both employers and officials concerned.
On the other hand, this correspondent was equally informed that students who lack reliable internet access or digital literacy may face “challenges… as the system is entirely dependent on technology … and technical issues or glitches could cause problems for Gambian students”.
Certain institutions have also argued that there is “potential for error” and that even though it is intended to be more effective, there is still a possibility of errors in the system or in the information provided.
Meanwhile, since the scheme took effect on July 15, 2025, there is no report of any Gambian student who has encountered any major difficulty or concern
