UK Rolls Out New Electronic Travel Authorisation for Gulf Visitors
From October 2023, Qatari travellers will be the first to hop on the UK’s new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme. This pilot kicks off a plan to expand the scheme worldwide throughout 2024. Visitors from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states and Jordan follow next in line.
Faster, Smarter, Digital Travel
The ETA promises slick and speedy entry to the UK. Visitors can apply in advance via a simple mobile app. The process is quick and fully digital, with a fast decision on each application. The fee is fair, matching similar schemes globally. ETAs last two years and allow multiple visits.
Stronger Borders, Safer UK
The government insists the ETA isn’t just about ease—it’s about security too. Applicants must submit biometric data and answer suitability questions to stamp out dangerous individuals before they board their flight.
Immigration Minister Robert Jenrick said:
“Strengthening our border remains one of the Government’s top priorities.”
“ETAs will enhance our border security by increasing our knowledge about those seeking to come to the UK and preventing the arrival of those who pose a threat.”
“It will also improve travel for legitimate visitors, with those visiting from Gulf Cooperation Council states being among the first to benefit.”
From Qatar to Global – What’s Next?
- October 2023: Qatar joins the ETA scheme first.
- February 2024: Visitors from the rest of the GCC states and Jordan can apply.
- End of 2024: ETA becomes mandatory worldwide for short-stay visitors who currently don’t need a visa, including Europeans, Americans, and Australians.
The ETA will completely replace the Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) scheme for GCC visitors, ending the single-use, pricier EVW visits.
British and Irish nationals are exempt from needing an ETA. Still, travellers arriving from Ireland to the UK must meet UK immigration rules, including the ETA requirement—unless they reside legally within the Common Travel Area.
