UK Visa Waiver Program and ETA for GCC Nations

The UK Visa Waiver Program has served Qataris and other GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) nationals visiting the United Kingdom. Specifically, GCC nationals include citizens of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

However, recent changes have introduced the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), which replaces the Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW).

In this article, we’ll explore what the UK Visa Waiver Program is, what it entails, how the EVW has worked, and what the transition to ETA means for GCC travelers.

The UK Visa Waiver Program

The UK Visa Waiver Program allows select citizens to enter the UK for short stays without a traditional visa. Moreover, it was particularly beneficial for tourists, business travelers, and those visiting family or friends for up to six months.

Eligibility and Benefits

The UK visa waiver was formerly available to citizens of several high-income countries with strong diplomatic relations with the UK.

Specifically, the main benefits of the UK visa waiver program included:

1. Simplified process: Easier access to the UK without the need for an extensive visa process.
2. Greater cost savings: Avoids visa fees, which can be substantial
3. Time efficiency: Reduces waiting time versus the standard visa application process

However, the specific eligibility criteria evolved, which led to the introduction of the EVW for GCC nationals. Consequently, GCC travelers could enter the UK without undergoing the lengthy and typically costly visa application process.

Understanding the Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW)

Overall, the EVW simplified the process further by moving it entirely online. This program allowed GCC and Jordan nationals to enter the UK for up to six months for tourism, business, study, or medical treatment purposes. Accordingly, the EVW application had to be submitted at least 48 hours before travel.

Below are the application steps:

1. Online application: Fill out the EVW form on the official UK government website. Provide personal details, travel information, and the reason for the visit.
2. Submission and Approval: Submit the form and receive approval typically within minutes. Nevertheless, travelers are advised to apply at least 48 hours before departure.
3. Travel to the UK: Once approved, the EVW allows travelers to board their flight to the UK without a visa.

The ETA Vs. the UK Visa Waiver

In 2023, the United Kingdom’s Home Office started rolling out its new entry scheme for the country, the ETA. The Home Office is the lead government department for matters on immigration and passports.

The ETA is a new system introduced by the UK government to replace the EVW. Moreover, it streamlines and enhances the security of the visa waiver process.

As a part of its transformation efforts, the ETA was required of travelers from visa-exempt countries. With it, the UK government hopes to enforce stricter border control measures and improve travel to the country. Accordingly, the UK plans on digitizing its borders at UK airports by the end of 2025.

While the EVW and ETA simplify travel to the UK, the ETA includes additional security measures. Furthermore, it also includes an expanded application process.

Here are the key differences:

1. Broader security checks: The ETA involves more comprehensive security screening compared to the EVW.
2. Longer application processing time: Travelers are advised to apply for the ETA well in advance of their travel date, because the processing time may be longer than the EVW.
3. Validity and multiple entries: The ETA may offer multiple entries within its validity period, providing more flexibility for frequent travelers.

ETA Eligibility

You need a UK ETA if you:

1. Are from a visa-exempt country, or countries previously under UK’s visa waiver program
2. Plan to visit the UK for tourism, business, family visits, or short-term studies.
3. Are visiting the UK for a paid engagement.
4. Are transiting through the UK to another destination. This includes if you are not going through UK border control.

Currently, the ETA is required for citizens of GCC countries. Eventually, more nationalities will be added as the ETA authorities roll out the program.

In time, citizens from the UK visa-exempt countries such as the US, Australia, and Canada will need to apply for an ETA for short stays in the United Kingdom.

To check the latest list of ETA-ready countries, click here.

Benefits of the ETA for GCC Citizens

GCC citizens can enjoy the following benefits when they apply for an ETA:

1. Enhanced security: Travelers are thoroughly vetted before entering the UK with high safety standards.
2. Multiple entry flexibility: The ETA may offer multiple entry options, such as allowing GCC travelers to enter the UK multiple times. This must be done during the validity period without reapplying for each trip.
3. Streamlined application process: Travelers can complete their applications conveniently online.
4. Business opportunities: The ETA provides business travelers with a secure and efficient entry process.
5. Tourism boost: More GCC visitors can explore UK cultural and historical attractions without the hassle of a traditional visa.
6. Medical and educational access: ETA facilitates healthcare and educational access for those seeking medical treatment or short-term study in the UK.

Application Process

To apply for an ETA, go through the following steps:

Step 1: Visit the EVS platform. It’s a digital one-stop shop that simplifies the ETA application process so you can focus on preparing for your journey instead of going through complex visa processes.

At EVS, your personal and travel information remains safe and secure with its strict data protection regulations. Moreover, it provides you with expert guidance and seamless support to ensure a stress-free application journey.

Step 2: Upload a passport photo. You must have a plain, light-colored background without any shadows or objects behind you in the photo. 

Step 3: Upload a scan or photo of your passport information page. Make sure the full passport photo page is inside the frame, including the two lines of numbers and letters at the bottom of the page. The passport must be valid for at least six months upon entering and exiting the UK.

Step 4: Provide your personal information.

1. Contact details
2. Home address
3. Employment information
4. Citizenship information
5. Criminal history, if any

Make sure that the information you provide matches what is on your passport.

Step 5: Review and confirm the information on your application. You can pay using suitable electronic payment methods. 

Step 6: Pay the application fee. 

Step 7: Receive your UK ETA. You will receive an e-mail with the decision. The ETA will be linked to your passport digitally.

Experience efficient, reliable, and professional visa support with EVS. Ready to get started with your application? Click the button below to obtain your ETA.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which countries are visa-free for the UK?

Citizens of GCC nations and Ireland do not need a visa to enter the UK.
Beginning April 2, 2025, the following European countries will need an ETA to visit the UK:

Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco
Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Vatican City  

Who does not need a UK ETA?

Those who have either:

1. A UK visa
2. Permission to reside, work, or study in the UK
3. A British or Irish passport, or a British overseas territories passport

Meanwhile, you don’t need an ETA if you live in Ireland. Also if you’re traveling from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey, or the Isle of Man.

However, if you plan to visit the UK for work or long-term studies, apply for a UK visa.

Is the ETA the same as a Visa?

No. It is an authorization that allows eligible travelers to enter the UK for short stays without a visa for specific purposes.

Can the ETA be extended?

No. To stay in the UK longer, you must apply for an appropriate visa.

What if My ETA application is denied?

You must apply for a standard visa instead.

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