Visa policy & Requirements

Know before you go

The United Kingdom (UK) maintains a structured visa system that governs the entry of overseas visitors for tourism, business, study, and other purposes. Requirements vary based on nationality, length of stay, and the purpose of travel. Traditionally, citizens of many countries have been able to enter the UK for short stays (usually up to six months) without needing a visa, while nationals of other countries must apply in advance for a Standard Visitor Visa or another relevant category.

However, to modernize and strengthen border control, the UK is rolling out an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) requirement for individuals who typically enter without a visa. Alongside this, certain Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nationals already benefit from the UK’s Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW), which travelers can complete online rather than applying for a full visa.

General Visa Policy

Visa-Required Nationals: Many countries in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and elsewhere must obtain a UK visa in advance for virtually any short-term visit. Common visa categories include the Standard Visitor Visa (tourism/business), Student Visa, Work Visa, and other specialized visa types.
Visa-Exempt Nationals: A large number of countries (including the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and all EU/EEA countries) have typically been permitted to enter the UK without a visa for short-term stays (often up to six months for tourism or business). Historically, these travelers only needed to show a passport upon arrival.
Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW): Nationals from specific GCC countries can use an online EVW form to secure permission to travel to the UK for short stays. This process serves as an alternative to applying for a regular visa at a consulate.

Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)

What Is the ETA?

The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a new travel pre-clearance requirement introduced by the UK. It will be required for those nationalities that do not normally require a traditional visa for visits to the UK. The ETA ensures that essential traveler information is provided in advance, enabling the British authorities to improve security checks before arrival.

Implementation Timeline

Initial Rollout: The ETA requirement began its phased rollout starting in late 2023 with certain travelers (for example, Qatari nationals).
Further Phases: In 2024 and beyond, more visa-exempt nationalities will be gradually added to the ETA requirement. Eventually, all travelers who formerly did not require a visa for short stays are expected to need an ETA prior to departure.

Who Needs an ETA?

Once fully implemented:

All visa-exempt nationals (i.e., those who previously could enter the UK with just a passport and did not need a visa for short visits) will be required to apply for an ETA online before traveling.
Children (minors) will also need an ETA, although parents or guardians can typically complete the application on their behalf.

The UK Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW)

The Electronic Visa Waiver (often colloquially called an “eVisa”) is not the same as the wider ETA. It is an online travel authorization that certain Gulf state nationals can use if they are traveling to the UK for a short stay (tourism, business, study, or medical treatment) for up to six months. The EVW replaces the need for a standard UK Visitor Visa for those who qualify.

Who Is Eligible for an EVW?

Currently, nationals of the following countries can apply for an EVW instead of a full visa:

Kuwait
Oman
Qatar
United Arab Emirates

They must complete the EVW form online before traveling. Once approved, the EVW allows entry to the UK for a specific trip. EVW holders do not need to separately apply for an ETA at this time. However, some of these countries may later transition to the ETA system if/when the EVW is phased into or replaced by the new scheme.

The UK’s approach to controlling entry is changing to include the new ETA requirement for all those who have historically enjoyed visa-free travel. Meanwhile, the Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) scheme continues to operate for eligible nationals from certain Gulf countries, simplifying short-term entry for them.

Whether you need a visa, an EVW, or an ETA depends on your nationality and the nature of your visit. As the ETA rollout continues, it is essential to check official UK government sources (or a licensed immigration adviser) for the most up-to-date regulations, fees, and application processes.