Effective October 25, 2023, applications are open for the electronic travel authorization (ETA) required for nationals of Qatar traveling to the UK on or after November 15, 2023.
Nationals of Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia or the United Arab Emirates travelling to the UK on or after February 22, 2024, will also require an ETA, and will be able to apply from February 1, 2024.
The ETA scheme will eventually be rolled out to all nationalities who do not need a visa for short stays (up to six months) to the UK for tourism, visiting family and friends, business or short-term study; for stays of up to three months on the Creative Worker visa concession; and for transiting through the UK.
An ETA permits multiple journeys and is valid for two years or until the holder’s passport expires – whichever is sooner.
Applying for an ETA
- The easiest way to apply for an ETA is through the ‘UK ETA app.’ Individuals can also search for ‘Apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation to come to the UK’ on GOV.UK if they do not have access to a smartphone.
- To apply for an ETA, individuals need to:
- Pay the £10 fee
- Provide contact and passport details
- Provide a valid photo, complying with the rules for digital photos on GOV.UK
- Answer a set of questions
- Most applicants will receive a response within three working days, with many receiving a result sooner.
- If an individual’s ETA application is refused they will need to apply for a visa if they wish to seek permission come to the UK.
- British and Irish citizens will not require an ETA.
Erickson Insights
Erickson Immigration Group will continue to monitor developments and share updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or case-specific questions.