The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme, a digital permission to travel to the UK, opened for nationals of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Jordan on February 1, 2024 for travel to the UK from February 22, 2024.
The ETA scheme launched for Qatari nationals in November. Other nationalities cannot and do not need to apply yet.
The ETA replaces the Electronic Visa Waiver scheme (EVW) for nationals of Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia.
Key Information about the UK ETA Scheme
- An ETA costs £10.
- The ETA permits multiple visits and is valid for two years or until the holder’s passport expires – whichever is sooner.
- The ETA scheme will be introduced worldwide for visitors to the UK who do not currently need a visa for short stays, including European nationals.
- British and Irish citizens will not require an ETA.
- People who are legally resident in Ireland and from a nationality that does not usually require a visa to visit the UK (e.g. EEA and US nationals), do not require an ETA when travelling to the UK from within the Common Travel Area (CTA), provided they hold acceptable evidence of their residence status. Full guidance on this can be found at GOV.UK.
The ETA Application Process
- Travelers can apply for an ETA 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 a fee
- Provide contact and passport details
- Provide a valid photo, complying with the Home Office’s rules for digital photos on GOV.UK
- Answer a set of questions
- Individuals must travel using the same passport they used when they applied for an ETA.
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.
Erickson Insights and Analysis
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.