The UK’s electronic travel authorisation (ETA) scheme has officially opened for Qatari nationals who, from November 15, need one to travel to the UK. Qataris have been able to apply for their ETA since October 25, 2023.
Nationals of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Jordan will need an ETA if they’re visiting the UK from February 22, 2024, and can apply for their ETA from February 1, 2024.
ETAs are replacing Electronic Visa Waivers (EVW) which the majority of Gulf nationals currently apply for. An ETA is an improvement from the EVW, being a third of the price at £10 and allowing unlimited visits to the UK over two years, or until the holder’s passport expires – whichever is sooner. The move to the ETA scheme means that the visa requirement will be removed for short stays to the UK for nationals from the Gulf and Jordan.
When applying for an ETA, applicants need to provide biographic and biometric information, and answer questions on suitability and criminality. Once individuals have successfully applied, their ETA is digitally linked to their passport.
While the standard processing time for an application is 3 working days, the majority of applications so far have been decided within hours.
Erickson Insights
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