Qatari Citizens Among Earliest Beneficiaries Of UK's ETA Scheme Rollout

UK launches ETA scheme, offering Qatari citizens early benefits as global leaders

Effective from November 15, Qatari citizens are now exempt from UK visa requirements, as confirmed by the British Embassy in Doha, marking them as the inaugural beneficiaries of the new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system. Qatari nationals can conveniently apply for an ETA via the official website.

 According to details provided on the website, the application fee for an ETA is £10 (approximately QAR 45), granting a 2-year validity for multiple visits to the UK. Additionally, the guidelines specify that even infants and children require an ETA for travel.

Citizens have the option to choose an ETA over a visa under the following circumstances:

- Traveling to the UK for a maximum of six months for tourism, visiting family or friends, business purposes, or short-term studies.

- Traveling to the UK for a period of up to three months under the Creative Worker Visa concession.

- Transit through the UK, even if not passing through UK border control.

The UK announced this initiative in June 2022, extending visa-free visits to Qataris and Gulf Cooperation Council nationals. The ETA scheme forms a crucial component of the UK government's strategy to establish a fully digital border by the end of 2025.