- Apply online for a £10 ETA to enter the UK
- ETA is a digital, visa-free travel permit
- Streamlined process for all age groups
The United Kingdom has announced a significant change in its visa policies, making travel easy for residents of Jordan and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.Discover the latest update as The UK allows visa-free entry for several Islamic Countries.
Starting from February 22 next year, citizens of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Oman, Jordan, and Bahrain will be granted visa-free entry into the UK.
Instead of traditional visas, they will only need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for entry.
The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system is introduced to simplify the entry process and eliminate the need for a visit visa.
Under this new system, individuals of all age groups planning to travel to the UK will only require an electronic application for a travel permit, whose price is only £10.
This digital permission will be issued for two years, providing a convenient and streamlined approach to entering the United Kingdom.
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This change aligns with the UK government’s broader plans to digitize its border control by 2025, enhancing security measures and overall customer experience.
The ETA is a digital authorization designed for visitors or transits through the UK who do not require a visa for short stays or do not currently possess another UK visa.
Qatar’s residents have already been utilizing the ETA since November 15, 2023, marking a successful implementation of the system.
The move to ETA is expected to reduce costs and simplify the visa process, benefiting travelers from the Gulf states and Jordan. The UK government envisions that this shift will also strengthen business and tourism ties between these countries.
In a statement, the British government emphasized the economic importance of Gulf visitors, revealing that over 790,000 Gulf visitors contributed £2 billion to the UK economy in 2022.
By waiving traditional visa requirements and introducing the ETA scheme, the UK aims to attract more visitors, fostering increased economic activity and collaboration.
The £10 fee for the ETA is a modest investment considering the benefits of visa-free entry and simplified travel procedures.
The digital nature of the ETA ensures a quick and efficient application process, aligning with the global trend of digitization in travel and border control.
As the UK continues to adapt its policies to the evolving landscape of international travel, the introduction of the ETA for citizens of Jordan and the GCC countries demonstrates a commitment to promoting accessibility and fostering positive relations with these nations.
The move is anticipated to have a positive impact on tourism, business, and cultural exchange between the United Kingdom and the Arab countries affected by this policy change.
What is Electronic Travel Authorization?
An Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is a digital permission. It is granted to individuals who want to travel to a specific country and are not required to obtain a traditional visa for short stays.
The ETA is obtained through an online application process, allowing authorities to pre-screen travelers before they arrive at the destination.
It is an electronic entry requirement, providing a streamlined and efficient way for eligible individuals to gain permission to enter a country.
Key features of an Electronic Travel Authorization
Key features of an Electronic Travel Authorization typically include:
- Online Application: Travelers submit their application through an online platform designated by the country they intend to visit.
- Digital Approval: Upon successful review of the application, the ETA is digitally approved and linked to the traveler’s passport electronically.
- Cost: There is usually a fee associated with obtaining an ETA. This fee contributes to the processing and maintenance of the electronic system.
- Validity Period: An ETA is typically valid for a specific period, allowing travelers to enter and stay in the country for a short duration, often ranging from a few days to several months.
- Single or Multiple Entry: It depends upon the country’s policy. ETA may permit a single or multiple entries within its validity period.
- Purpose: The main aim of ETA is tourism, business trips, or short visits, where a full visa may not be necessary.
The Electronic Travel Authorization system is part of a broader global trend toward digitization in immigration and border control.
These systems help countries enhance security, simplify entry procedures, and facilitate smoother travel for eligible individuals.
The digital nature of ETAs allows for quick processing, reducing paperwork and administrative burdens on travelers and immigration authorities.