Last year, the government announced the plans for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to be introduced for people travelling to the UK without a visa. The scheme is to be introduced gradually with specific countries at a time.
Ultimately, an ETA will be required from visitors coming to the UK for up to 6 months for tourism, visiting family and friends, business or study and for people transiting through the UK even if not going through Border Control.
From 15th November 2023, this new requirement will only apply for Qatar nationals and on 22nd February more countries will be added to the list including United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait.
Applications will be open from 25th October on the UK ETA app and will cost £10 per applicant – the authorisation will then be valid for 2 years and can be used for multiple visits.
The scheme is similar to the current ESTA system in the United States and will be extended to more nationalities in the coming years. Please see here for more information.
In some cases, a visa will still be required. If you have any questions or would like some help in understanding the immigration implications for your business, please contact our team at exportbritain@gmchamber.co.uk to be put in touch with our GMCC Approved Supplier.
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