Saudi Arabia and the UK jointly announced a revamped electronic exemption scheme for Saudi citizens traveling to Britain. The previous electronic visa waiver (EVW) scheme will now be replaced by an electronic travel authorization (ETA) visa process.
Under the new regulations, the ETA visa will be valid for up to two years, allowing for multiple entries during its validity period. Applicants will be required to pay a £10 fee for processing.
Effective from February 22, the updated visa process provides flexibility for various purposes, including tourism, business visits, short-term study, or medical treatment. While the official implementation begins on February 22, individuals can commence the application process starting February 1.
The announcement was made following a meeting between Saudi Deputy Foreign Minister Walid Al-Khereiji and Tariq Ahmed, Minister of State for the Middle East, North Africa, South Asia, and the United Nations at the British Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Development, held at the ministry’s headquarters in Riyadh today.