What is the UK ETA for Bahraini Citizens?

The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is an online travel authorization system that allows Bahraini citizens to visit the UK for various short-term purposes. It was introduced in 2023 to replace the Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) scheme and as part of the government’s plan to fully digitalize borders by 2025.

The ETA became available for the GCC and Jordan citizens in February 2024 and Bahraini citizens have been eligible to apply for the UK ETA ever since. The new system allows Bahrainis to stay in the UK for up to six months for specific purposes, including:

  • Tourism
  • Visiting family and friends
  • Certain business activities
  • Short-term study
  • Activities related to the Creative Worker visa concession (for up to three months)
  • Approved short-term paid activities
  • Transit

The United Kingdom ETA system was established to simplify the entry process for travelers and improve security measures. By moving to a digital system, the UK government aimed to streamline border control and provide a more efficient process for short-term visits.

The UK ETA is also available to nationals of Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. Other visa-exempt nationalities will become eligible in the near future.

Advantages of the UK ETA

The UK ETA visa offers Bahraini citizens an easy and efficient way to visit the UK. It provides several key benefits over the previous Electronic UK Visa Waiver (EVW) scheme, including:

Quick and easy application process

Applying for a UK ETA is quick and easy, with an entirely online process. Unlike the EVW, which requires a more cumbersome application, the ETA system has shorter wait times and can be done from the comfort of your own home.

Cost-effective

The ETA UK is designed to be more affordable compared to the EVW scheme. The reduced fee structure is particularly beneficial for frequent travelers who can enter the UK multiple times for a lower cost.

Multi-entry validity

The ETA allows multiple entries into the UK during the validity period, or until your passport expires. This flexibility is advantageous for travelers needing frequent visits, as opposed to single-entry visas.

Enhanced security measures

The UK ETA incorporates advanced security features to ensure that only authorized travelers can enter the UK. This improved security system helps in maintaining safer borders compared to the older EVW scheme.

Streamlined Border Control

With the UK ETA, border control processes are more efficient. The ETA’s digital integration allows for quicker verification of travel authorization, reducing wait times at immigration.

UK ETA Eligibility Criteria for Bahraini Citizens

To apply for a UK ETA, Bahraini citizens must meet specific eligibility requirements. These criteria ensure that only eligible individuals are granted travel authorisation to the UK.

  • Citizen of Bahrain Only Bahraini nationals are eligible to apply for the ETA. Applicants must provide valid proof of Bahraini citizenship, such as a passport, to confirm their eligibility.
  • Stays of less than six months The UK ETA is intended for short stays of up to six months. If your intended stay exceeds this duration, you will need to apply for a different type of visa. The ETA is not suitable for long-term work, permanent residency, or settlement purposes.
  • No criminal record To qualify for the UK ETA, applicants must not have a criminal record. A clean criminal background, including not overstaying a previous visa or violating previous immigration rules, is necessary to ensure that travelers meet the UK’s security and safety standards.
  • Sufficient financial means Applicants must be able to demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay in the UK. This requirement helps ensure that travelers can cover their expenses without needing public funds.

UK ETA Application Process

Applying for a UK ETA is a straightforward process that can be completed quickly and easily on our website. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

1

Complete the application form

Start by filling out the UK ETA application form available on our website. You will likely need to provide:

  • Personal information
  • Passport information
  • Contact details
  • Reason for visiting the UK
  • Planned travel itinerary 
  • Employment information itinerary 
  • Health information itinerary 
  • Criminal background itinerary 

You will need to ensure that all information is up-to-date and accurate to prevent your application from being rejected. Additionally, you will need to upload a copy of your passport and a recent photograph that adheres to the specified size and format guidelines.

2

Pay the required fees

To finalize your application, you must pay the UK ETA fee. Payment can be made using a valid credit or debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.

3

Receive your UK ETA

Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive your UK ETA via email. You can then proceed with your travel plans to the UK for a short stay of up to six months. If your application is rejected, you will also receive a notification by email explaining the reasons for the decision.

Requirements for UK ETA Application

To apply for a UK ETA, Bahraini citizens need to prepare and submit specific documents. These documents are essential for verifying your identity and processing your application efficiently.

Valid passport

You must have a valid passport that remains valid for the duration of your stay in the UK. The passport should be issued by Bahraini authorities.

Valid passport

Recent photograph

A recent passport-sized photograph is required. This photo should meet official size and format guidelines, clearly show your face, and adhere to the application standards for clarity and identification purposes.

Recent photograph

Payment method

You will need a valid payment method to pay the application fee. Accepted payment options include a credit or debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.

Payment method

Email address

A valid email address is necessary for receiving important communications regarding your application. This includes confirmation of your ETA approval or any updates related to your application status.

Email address

UK ETA Fees

The UK ETA costs £78, which covers both the UK government fee and our professional service fees. The ETA fee is more cost-effective compared to the EVW scheme, which often didn’t include comprehensive service support.

UK ETA Processing Time

The UK ETA application process is generally quick and efficient. Typically, you can expect to receive your UK ETA within 3 working days from the date of your application. However, it is recommended to apply in advance of your travel date to account for any delays.

UK ETA Validity and Duration of Stay

The UK ETA is valid for multiple journeys to the UK over a period of two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. This means you can enter and exit the UK multiple times during this period without needing to reapply for a new ETA each time.

While the ETA allows for multiple entries, each stay is limited to a maximum of 6 months. If you need to stay longer or wish to engage in activities beyond what the ETA covers, you may need to apply for a different type of visa.

Travel Guidelines with UK ETA

Departure
to the UK

When traveling to the UK with an ETA, it’s helpful to understand how the authorisation works and what is required during your journey. The UK ETA is an electronic authorisation linked directly to your passport, meaning there is no physical visa to carry. However, it’s advisable to print a copy of the ETA or keep the approval email accessible, as this can serve as proof if needed. 

Ensure that you travel with the same passport used for your ETA application, as discrepancies between your passport and the ETA can cause complications at the border. If you hold multiple passports, you must use the same one for travel that was used in your UK ETA application. This is important as the ETA is electronically tied to that specific passport, and using a different one could result in entry issues.

Entering
the UK

Upon arrival in the UK, you will need to present your passport at border control. The UK Border Force will check your ETA status electronically and verify your identity. Be prepared to demonstrate proof of onward travel and sufficient funds for your stay. This is to ensure you meet the entry requirements and will not overstay your permitted duration.

Despite having a valid ETA, entry to the UK can still be denied if there are discrepancies or additional concerns regarding your travel plans or documentation. It is essential to comply with all entry requirements and provide accurate information.

With a valid UK ETA, Bahraini citizens can freely travel between England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. After passing through border security in the arrival country, you can move between these regions without additional checks.

UK ETA: Renewal and Extension Options

The UK ETA cannot be renewed or extended. Once the two-year validity period has elapsed, or your passport expires, you will need to apply for a new ETA if you wish to travel to the UK again. This allows for up-to-date verification and ensures that all travel authorizations are valid and accurate.

UK ETA Refusals:
Common Reasons and Solutions

There are several reasons why a UK ETA application might be rejected:

Reason

Providing incorrect or incomplete details on the application form can lead to refusal. This includes errors in personal information, travel details, or passport data.

Solution

Double-check all information before submitting your application. Ensure that all details are accurate and match your official documents.

Reason

An expired or invalid passport will result in refusal, as the ETA is electronically linked to your passport.

Solution

Ensure your passport is valid for the entire duration of your stay in the UK and renew your passport if it is close to expiring.

Reason

Insufficient funds or not providing complete travel plans.

Solution

Be prepared to provide proof of financial stability and a detailed travel itinerary. This helps to confirm that you can support yourself and have clear plans during your stay.

FAQ

The ETA is attached directly to your passport meaning if you get a new passport, your ETA will no longer be valid, and you will need to apply for a new ETA.

If your application is rejected, your next steps depend on the reason for the rejection. If your application is rejected because of inaccurate or incomplete information, you may be able to provide additional information or submit a new application. If it was rejected for another reason, such as your criminal record, you may not be eligible for an ETA and may need to apply for a visa instead.

If you do not receive your ETA approval email within the expected time frame, check your spam or junk mail folder. If it is not there, contact our support team for assistance. Ensure that the email address provided in your application is correct.

No, the UK ETA is not suitable for long-term work or study. It is intended for short-term visits, including tourism, business, and short-term study. For longer stays, a different type of visa would be required.

Bahraini nationals will require an ETA if they are traveling to the UK by any mode of transport, including airplane, boat, and the Eurotunnel.