Omanis to Benefit from UK’s ETA Scheme for Smoother and Cost-Effective Travel

Muscat, The Gulf Observer: Omanis received encouraging news as the United Kingdom’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme is set to launch, providing a streamlined and cost-effective approach to travel to the UK. A press release from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office revealed that the ETA is now accessible to Omanis, as well as nationals from other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and Jordan.

Starting from February 22, 2024, Omanis can apply for the ETA at a nominal cost of £10, allowing for unlimited visits to the UK within a two-year period. This extension of the scheme, already successfully implemented for Qataris since October 2023, aims to enhance the travel experience for Gulf and Jordanian nationals.

The ETA replaces the previous Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) scheme and facilitates short stays in the UK for Gulf and Jordanian nationals. It is important to note that an ETA is not a visa but a permission to travel, requiring individuals to obtain leave to enter upon arrival through regular procedures.

Previously, Gulf nationals paid £30 through the Electronic Visa Waiver scheme, while Jordanians paid £115 for a single-use visitor visa. The reduced cost and unlimited visits mark a significant milestone, promoting travel between Oman and the UK.

Gulf visitors, including Omanis, play a pivotal role in the UK economy, contributing nearly £2 billion during their stays in 2022. The ETA aligns with the UK Government’s commitment to transforming and digitizing the border and immigration system, aiming for a seamless customer experience while ensuring robust security checks.

Home Secretary James Cleverly emphasized the importance of the ETA, stating, “The ETA will enhance the experience of traveling to the UK for the thousands of visitors from the Gulf and Jordan, who represent our second-largest tourism market and contribute billions to the UK economy.”

Minister of State for the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia Lord Ahmad expressed delight, stating, “I am pleased that with the introduction of ETAs, it will be even simpler for our Gulf and Jordanian friends to visit the UK. Our strong people-to-people connections underpin our close partnership, and we all benefit from the boost to trade, education, and tourism ties that ETAs will bring.”

The application process for an ETA is entirely digital through a mobile phone app, featuring a streamlined and swift process. Once approved, the ETA is digitally linked to the passport, with decisions typically made within three working days.

The scheme is applicable worldwide to those who do not currently require a visa to visit or transit through the UK or hold UK immigration status. While the ETA is set to benefit Omanis and other eligible nationalities, details regarding its expansion to other nationalities will be provided in due course.

Until February 22, 2024, nationals of Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait, and the United Arab Emirates will continue to require an Electronic Visa Waiver or a visa, while Jordanian nationals will still require a visa to travel to the UK.