MUSCAT: Omanis received encouraging news as the United Kingdom’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme will soon be launched, facilitating smoother and more cost-effective travel to the UK.
As per a press release from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme is now accessible to Omanis, as well as nationals from other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and Jordan.
Effective from February 22, 2024, the ETA application costs only £10, allowing for unlimited visits to the UK within a two-year period.
Nationals of Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Jordan can now enjoy unlimited visits to the UK over a two-year period or until passport expiration, whichever comes first, for just £10.
Previously, Gulf nationals paid £30 through the Electronic Visa Waiver scheme, while Jordanians paid £115 for a single-use visitor visa. This expansion of the scheme follows the successful implementation for Qataris since October 2023, with many utilising the UK ETA mobile app for application.
ETAs replace Electronic Visa Waivers (EVW) and waive the visa requirement for short stays in the UK for Gulf and Jordanian nationals. It’s important to note that an ETA is not a visa but rather permission to travel, authorising individuals to proceed to the UK border. On arrival, individuals must still obtain leave to enter through regular procedures, either by consulting a Border Force Officer or using an eGate if eligible.
Gulf visitors play a significant role in the UK economy, contributing £2 billion during their stays in 2022. This highlights the importance of their presence in boosting the country's tourism sector.
The introduction of the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is a significant milestone in the UK Government's efforts to modernize and digitize the border and immigration system. The aim is to provide a seamless customer experience while ensuring strong security measures to protect the borders and prevent any misuse.
According to Home Secretary James Cleverly, the ETA will greatly enhance the travel experience for thousands of visitors from the Gulf and Jordan, who are a vital part of the UK's tourism market. This scheme is a crucial step towards establishing the UK as a global leader in border innovation and security.
Minister of State for the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia Lord Ahmad expressed his satisfaction with the introduction of ETAs, stating that it will make it even easier for Gulf and Jordanian friends to visit the UK. The strong people-to-people connections between these regions and the UK contribute to a close partnership, benefiting trade, education, and tourism ties.
The application process for an ETA is streamlined and efficient, conducted entirely through a mobile phone app. Applicants are required to provide biographic and biometric details, as well as answer questions related to their suitability and criminal history. Once approved, the ETA is digitally linked to the passport, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.
Decisions are typically reached within a span of three working days, with the majority being processed within a matter of hours.
This scheme is applicable globally to individuals who currently do not need a visa to visit or transit through the UK, as well as those who do not possess UK immigration status. This includes nationals from Europe and America.
At present, individuals of other nationalities are not yet eligible to apply under this scheme. Further information regarding the opening of the scheme for them will be provided at a later date.
Until February 22, 2024, nationals from Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait, and the United Arab Emirates will still require an Electronic Visa Waiver or a visa. Similarly, Jordanian nationals will continue to require a visa for travel to the UK.
