UK Begins ETA Phase 2 on Feb 1: Affected Countries Revealed
The UK is expanding its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) program on February 1, 2024, requiring visitors from six Gulf and Middle Eastern nations—including Saudi Arabia and UAE—to obtain a digital permit by February 22.
Recent changes to UK visa policy have streamlined entry for citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and Jordan. On 1 February, the UK will roll out its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for several new nationalities.
New ETA rules for GCC and Jordanian travellers
Following policy updates, visitors from select Middle Eastern countries will now face fewer barriers when visiting the UK for short-term tourism, business or family visits. Nationals of Bahrain🇧🇭, Saudi Arabia🇸🇦, Kuwait🇰🇼, Oman🇴🇲, the United Arab Emirates🇦🇪 and Jordan🇯🇴 no longer need a standard visitor visa, joining Qatar in November as the ETA pilot programme began.
Instead, all tourists in these categories must obtain an electronic travel permit before arrival. The document costs 10 £ (€11.57) and will be issued electronically once an online form is completed. The system aims to simplify entry and ease travel for visitors from these countries.
Permits will be required from 22 February 2024, with applications open from 1 February 2024. Each ETA is valid for two years and allows multiple entries over a 90-day maximum for transit or short visits to the UK.
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How the ETA application process works
Under the new system, eligible residents must complete a few straightforward steps to secure their travel permit:
Visit the dedicated online portal and complete the application form with personal details including name, date of birth, address and contact information.
Pay the 10 £ fee online by credit or debit card.
Wait for email confirmation. Once granted—generally within a short timeframe when requirements are met and details are accurate—travellers can print the ETA and present it to border officials upon arrival in the UK.
Northern Ireland raises tourism concerns
Ian Snowden, Permanent Secretary of the Northern Ireland Department for the Economy, has voiced concerns over the UK’s shift in border policy.
I’m sure many of you will be concerned about the UK government’s proposed electronic travel authorisation system. There is a real risk it may discourage tourists from including Ireland — including Northern Ireland — in their travel plans.
