What is a UK ETA for Qatari Citizens?

The UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is a digital traveling permit required for Qatari citizens who want to travel to the UK. Launched in 2023 as a replacement for the Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) scheme, the ETA is a convenient scheme that allows Qatari nationals to make short-term visits to the UK for various purposes, including:

  • Tourism, visiting family and friends, business, or short-term study for up to 6 months.
  • Visits of up to three months using the Creative Worker visa concession.
  • Permitted paid engagements.
  • Transiting through the UK.

The ETA system was introduced to improve border security and facilitate smoother travel for visitors as it ensures that travelers are pre-approved before they reach the UK. Although the ETA is a digital permission to travel to the UK, it is not permission to enter the country and travelers will still need to undergo immigration checks.

In addition to Qatar, nationals from Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates are also eligible to apply for the UK ETA.

Advantages of the UK ETA

The ETA has multiple benefits over the previous EVW scheme and has been well-received since it began in 2023. The main benefits are:

Quick and easy application process

Applying for an ETA is straightforward. The online application form requires basic personal details and travel information, and the process can typically be completed within a few minutes.

Cost-effective

The UK ETA is more affordable compared to the EVW scheme. The total fee is £78, making it a cost-effective choice for travelers. This fee structure is designed to be more budget-friendly.

Multi-entry validity

The UK ETA allows for multiple entries into the UK over a two-year period or until the holder’s passport expires, whichever comes first. This flexibility is ideal for frequent travelers, as it eliminates the need for repeated visa applications for short stays.

UK ETA Eligibility Criteria for Qatari Citizens

Since October 2023, Qatari citizens have been eligible for a UK ETA, as long as they comply with the eligibility criteria listed below:

  • The applicant must be a citizen of Qatar Because the scheme is only available to certain nationalities, only Qatari passport holders are eligible for the ETA UK. Residents of Qatar who do not have a Qatari passport may not be eligible.
  • Maximum stays of six months The ETA is intended for short-term stays, up to six months, covering tourism, business, and other short visits.
  • No criminal record To be eligible for the United Kingdom ETA, applicants must not have a criminal record that could impact their entry into the UK.
  • No previous immigration violations Applicants should not have a history of immigration violations or overstaying visas in other countries as past issues with immigration authorities can affect the approval of the ETA.

UK ETA Application Process

Applying for an ETA is straightforward and can be completed online in less than five minutes. Below is a step-by-step guide to make the application process even easier:

1

Complete the application form

Complete the UK ETA application form available on our website. You will need to provide the following information:

  • Personal information.
  • Travel information.
  • Contact information.
  • A digital copy of your passport.
  • A recent photograph 

Ensure that all information you provide is correct and that any documents you upload adhere to the specified size and format guidelines.

2

Pay the required fees

To finalize your application, make the payment for the UK ETA fee. Ensure that your payment method is ready and has sufficient funds to cover the fee.

3

Receive your ETA

Once your application is approved, you will receive your UK ETA via email. This confirmation will allow you to proceed with your travel plans. If your application is not approved, you will also be notified by email.

Requirements for UK ETA Application

To apply for a UK ETA, Qatari citizens must submit several essential documents. Without these documents, your ETA application will not be accepted.

Valid passport

Your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your stay in the UK and should include at least one blank page. It should be the same passport you will use when traveling to the UK.

Valid passport

Recent photograph

A recent passport-sized photograph is required. The photo must meet the specific size and format guidelines provided in the application instructions to ensure it is acceptable.

Recent photograph

Payment method

You will need a valid credit or debit card to pay the application fee. Alternatively, payment can be made via Apple Pay or Google Pay. Ensure that your payment method is active and has sufficient funds to prevent any delays in your application.

Payment method

Email address

A valid email address is necessary for receiving notifications about your application status. This includes updates on approval, rejections, or requests for additional information.

Email address

UK ETA Fees

The total fee for a UK ETA is £78. This fee covers both the UK government charges and our professional service fees. The UK ETA visa is more cost-effective compared to the previous UK Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) scheme.

The EVW scheme involved separate governmental and service fees, which could add up to a higher total cost for travelers. In contrast, the UK ETA’s all-inclusive fee simplifies the pricing structure and provides better value.

UK ETA Processing Time

The majority of applications are processed within three working days, although in a small number of cases, this can be longer. For example, if there is an unusually high number of applications or there are issues with your application. To account for any potential delays, it is recommended to apply well in advance of your travel date.

UK ETA Validity and Duration of Stay

The UK ETA is valid for multiple entries into the UK within two years from the date of issue or until the holder’s passport expires, whichever occurs first. This extended validity period allows for repeated short-term visits without the need for multiple UK visa applications.

While the UK ETA permits multiple entries, each stay is limited to a maximum of 6 months. Additionally, the ETA does not allow for long-term stays, permanent residence, or employment beyond the specific permissions.

Travel Guidelines with UK ETA

Departure
to the UK

When traveling to the UK with an ETA, there are several key guidelines to follow to ensure a smooth journey. The UK ETA is electronically linked to your passport, meaning you do not need a physical visa sticker or stamp. Instead, you can either print out your ETA approval or keep the approval email accessible on your mobile device as proof. If you have multiple passports, ensure that the passport presented at the UK border matches the one associated with your ETA. 

Before boarding, airline staff will verify your ETA status by checking your passport details against the ETA system. Make sure that all details are accurate and consistent to avoid any issues with boarding.

Entering
the UK

Upon arrival in the UK, you will go through border control where your passport and ETA will be checked. Be prepared to answer questions about your travel plans and provide additional documentation if requested. It is also advisable to carry proof of onward travel and evidence of financial stability.

While a valid ETA generally facilitates entry, it does not guarantee it. Border officials have the authority to deny entry based on various factors, such as discrepancies in documentation or other concerns. Once you have passed through border security, you are free to travel throughout the UK, including England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, without further immigration checks.

UK ETA: Renewal and Extension Options

If your ETA expires, it is important to know that it cannot be renewed or extended. Once issued, the ETA is valid for a period of up to two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. If you want to visit the UK after this period, you will need to apply for a new ETA.

UK ETA Refusals: Common Reasons and Solutions

There are several reasons why an ETA application may be rejected. Understanding these reasons and knowing how to address them can help you improve your chances of a successful application.

Reason

Applications with missing or incorrect details are frequently rejected. These could be errors in the personal information, travel plans, or passport details you have provided.

Solution

Ensure that your personal details, travel dates, and passport information are accurate and complete before submitting. Review the application form thoroughly and follow the guidelines for providing correct details.

Reason

If your passport is not valid for at least six months from the date of application or if there is a discrepancy with the passport details provided your application may be denied.

Solution

Verify that your passport is valid and will remain so for the duration of your travel. Ensure that the passport used for the application matches the one you will use for your trip.

Reason

Applicants with a criminal record or those deemed a security risk may be refused. This includes previous immigration violations or serious criminal offenses.

Solution

Be honest in your application and provide accurate background information. If you have a criminal record, seek legal advice to understand how it may affect your application.

FAQ

Permanent residents of Qatar who have a passport from a different country will likely need to apply for a UK visa as the UK ETA is only available to individuals with a Qatari passport and other eligible countries.

You can verify the status of your ETA by logging into your account on our website. You will also be notified of any changes to your application automatically by email.

Although the ETA and visas are both types of travel permissions for entering the UK, the ETA is primarily used for short-term visits for specific purposes and for citizens of eligible countries. In contrast, a UK visa for Qatari citizens is a formal document in a passport that usually requires a more detailed application process and is suitable for longer stays or various purposes such as work or study.

The ETA application process is fully digital, meaning you can complete the entire process online in less than 5 minutes. The ETA will be digitally attached to your passport and sent to you via email. There is no need to visit an embassy or send off your passport.

Entry to the UK is not visa-free based on GCC residency alone. Even if you are a resident of a GCC country, you may need a visa or an ETA depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit.