The United Kingdom’s government has announced that citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and Jordan will transition to an electronic travel authorization system starting in early 2024.
This move means that citizens of GCC countries (Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and the UAE) along with Jordan will no longer require visas for visiting the UK. The British authorities intend to enhance border processes to facilitate the entry of tourists, students, and businesspeople.
The UK government clarified that visa exemption applies to those planning to travel to Britain after February 22, 2024. Tourists can apply for an electronic travel authorization (ETA) valid for two years at a cost of £10, whether for adults or minors, starting from February 1 of the following year. The application process typically takes around three working days.
Britain’s government noted that the ETA allows entry and a six-month stay in the UK for tourism, visiting relatives, short-term business purposes, short-term study, or transit visas. It also permits temporary work for up to three months.
This move is expected to strengthen ties between the UK and the Gulf countries while making travel more accessible for their citizens.
