Saudi Arabia and Britain jointly announced a significant update to the electronic visa waiver regime, offering Saudi citizens an extended stay option. The new Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system replaces the Electronic Visa Waiver (ETV) and introduces a remarkable two-year validity period with the ability for multiple entries during this timeframe. The visa fee is set at a nominal £10, and this progressive scheme will come into effect on February 22, 2024.
1. Enhanced Visa Regime: The ETA replaces the ETV, providing Saudi citizens with an extended two-year validity period and multiple entry options. This signifies a significant improvement in the visa process for travelers to Britain.
2. Joint Announcement: The unveiling of the new visa regime occurred during a meeting between Saudi Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Eng. Walid Al-Kheraiji and Lord Tariq Ahmed, the minister of state for MENA, South Asia, and the UN at the British Ministry of Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development in Riyadh.
3. Symbolic £10 Fee: The visa fee is set at a nominal £10, making the process accessible and affordable for Saudi citizens. This move aims to encourage travel and strengthen bilateral relations.
4. Effective Date: The new scheme will be operational from February 22, 2024. Applications for the ETA visa, covering purposes such as tourism, business, short courses, and medical treatment, can be submitted online starting February 1, 2024.
5. Expanded Beneficiaries: Besides Saudi citizens, nationals from the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan, and Oman are also included in the ETA visa regime. This expansion follows the successful launch of the ETA scheme for Qatari nationals in November 2023.
6. Continuous Diplomatic Coordination: The joint announcement reflects the ongoing coordination between the foreign ministries of Saudi Arabia and Britain, emphasizing the commitment to strengthening ties in various fields.
