UAE, other GCC countries first to get UK’s new ETA scheme

UAE, other GCC countries first to get UK’s new ETA scheme

Individuals can make multiple visits to the country over a two-year validity period

By Prasun Sonwalkar Published: Thu 9 Mar 2023, 6:12 PM

Visitors to the United Kingdom from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states, and Jordan, will be the first to benefit from the UK’s new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme, the Rishi Sunak government announced on Thursday.

The scheme will be expanded worldwide throughout 2024 and Qatari visitors will be the first to be able to apply for an ETA in October 2023, officials said.

By applying for an ETA in advance, visitors will benefit from smooth and efficient travel. The application process will be quick, light touch and entirely digital with most visitors applying via a mobile app and receiving a swift decision on their application.

The officials said that an ETA is not a visa, it does not permit entry into the UK, but authorises an individual to travel to the UK. On arrival, an individual will still need to obtain leave to enter, as per the process now, by seeing a Border Force Officer or using an eGate if eligible to do so.

The ETA scheme is in line with the approach many of the UK’s international partners have taken to