UK’s New Visa Policies for GCC Nationals and Jordan

The new UK’s electronic travel authorisation (ETA) scheme has opened for Gulf Cooperation Council and Jordanian nationals who are travelling to the UK from 22 February 2024.

This new system boasts that it is able to transform and digitise the UK border, allowing for an increasingly stress free process. This initiative should enhance ease of travel and allow individuals easier access to the UK. It is a development that aims at improving the entry process by abolishing the requirement for traditional visit visas of the past. This new system enables visitors an easier, faster and offers a more streamlined approach. The new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system is already revolutionising travel for GCC and Jordanian nationals.

Who can use the new ETA system?

The new system for these specific countries means that from the 22 February 2024 they will no longer need to obtain a visit visa to enter the UK. They will simply need to apply for an electronic travel permit for a fee of £10.

This process is aimed at making the UK more accessible for the general public; it is specifically aimed at tourists of all ages.

The new system is clearly aimed at improving and strengthening our relationship with the Gulf nations and builds on our ‘special relationship’ with them. It also confirms the UK’s commitment to adopting and utilising the latest technological advancements that benefit the UK.

These changes will truly impact the diplomatic, economic and cultural ties between the UK and Gulf nations.

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) approved a Schengen-style visa for all country members during a meeting of ministers on 9 November 2023. This visa will ‘open the doors’ allowing tourists to explore the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, and Kuwait with the convenience of a single visa. This will make the Gulf region more accessible.

In the Gulf the one-visa system will be operational between 2024 and 2025. The visa application will be available via a website or app showing that the Gulf countries are embracing the new technology advancements.

This will make it easier for UK nationals to travel to the Gulf region. This is an exciting development that will open up the Gulf to more UK nationals allowing for greater understanding of the region. The impact of the developments currently happening in these areas are going to be beneficial for more UK nationals seeking to explore the opportunities available to them.

These changes will not only strengthen the ties between our great nations, they allow for more economic cooperation and greater growth.

About HCR Law

ABCC member, HCR Law are top ranking law firm with 10 offices in the UK and a dedicated Arabian Gulf hub. Its lawyers have close connections with the Arab world and consistently advise on transactions and provide legal advice in relation to the region.

Contact Raj Pahuja, Partner – Head of Arabian Gulf Hub, HCR Law rpahuja@hcrlaw.com https://www.hcrlaw.com/offices/