In a significant move to ease travel, the United Kingdom has announced a visa-free travel waiver for citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, starting February 22, 2024. This new arrangement allows nationals from Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE to visit the UK more easily than ever before.
A UK visa on a passport. (Stock image)
Here’s what you need to know about the new Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) program:
- Start Date: February 22, 2024
- Eligible Countries: Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE (Qatari citizens are already eligible).
- Cost: $12.75 (£10) for a two-year multiple entry permit.
- Application: Available through the UK government’s website with a decision within three working days.
The ETA simplifies the travel process for various purposes, including tourism, family visits, business, short-term study, and certain work engagements. It’s a game-changer for GCC travelers, offering a more affordable and faster alternative to the current Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW).
@JamesCleverly launching #ETA for GCC countries. Removes need (and cost) for Electronic Visa Waiver and will help drive the £3bn spend from @GCC #inbound into the UK. 86% of #GCC visitors are repeat so huge opportunity to get the #regional spend from these valuable markets pic.twitter.com/4NEgkKpoAW
— Joss Croft OBE – 杨博路 (@josscroft) February 1, 2024
Let’s break down the eligibility for an ETA in a simple table:
| Reason for Visit | Duration |
|---|---|
| Tourism, Family & Friends Visit | Up to 6 months |
| Business or Short-Term Study | Up to 6 months |
| Creative Worker Visa Concession | Up to 3 months |
| Permitted Paid Engagement | Up to 1 month |
For those not covered by the above reasons, a regular visa application is necessary.
The introduction of the ETA marks a significant step in fostering closer ties between the UK and GCC countries, making travel more accessible and straightforward for millions of Gulf nationals.
