Following implementation of the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system in November 2023, this update provides a summary of the current requirements.

Purpose of the ETA

An ETA is advance permission to travel to, or transit through the UK, for those who do not currently need to obtain a visa, or do not have a UK immigration status. An ETA approval will facilitate multiple entries.

Who needs an ETA?

Individuals visiting the UK who do not need a visa for stays of less than six months and do not meet one of the below exemptions:

• UK or Irish nationals
• Individuals who hold a UK entry visa or residence permit
• Individuals who hold an Irish permit and do not need a visa to enter the UK
• Non-UK nationals who need an issued visa to enter the UK

For example, a US national, who lives in the US, and is coming to attend a business meeting in London will need an ETA when this is implemented for US nationals.

It should be noted that an ETA, where required, is necessary for airside transit as well as visiting the UK.

Validity

Once approved, the ETA will be valid from the date of approval for either two years or until the expiry of the passport, whichever is shorter.

Process

Applications for the ETA can be submitted online on cibtvisas.com. Approvals will be sent to the applicant via email. Applications should take no more than 3 working days from the date of submission, but if the UK authorities have any questions, processing can take longer. We recommend applications be submitted at least 30 days before.

Documents required

The applicant’s passport must be valid for a minimum of three months after the intended departure date from the UK and should not be more than 10 years old.

Implementation timeline

Nationals from Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar Saudi Arabia and the UAE are required to obtain ETA approval before travel. Additional countries will be implemented throughout 2024, with the aim of every non-visa national requiring an ETA by the end of 2024.

This immigration update is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal or scenario-specific advice. Furthermore, it is important to note that immigration announcements are subject to sudden and unexpected changes. Readers are encouraged to reach out to Newland Chase for any case- or company-specific assessments.

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Foreign expatriates have been returning to Israel in greater numbers over the past two weeks. Individuals seeking to return but with upcoming or past visa expiration circumstances should consider submitting an application for a waiver from consular processing. We recommend liaising with a specialist immigration provider for support with this as the approval of waivers requires strong justification and a compelling case needs to be submitted to Israeli immigration authorities.

Foreign nationals seeking to secure work authorisation in Israel should be aware that, effective January 1, 2024, the minimum monthly prevailing wage for foreign national experts has now increased to NIS 24,758—up 5.5 percent from 2023.

Additionally, from within Israel, the US Embassy has resumed non-immigrant and immigrant visa services. Appointments are available on the scheduling site for Israelis seeking to schedule interviews for H, L and E employee applications, as well as O and other non-immigrant visa classifications. The State Department has extended the interview waiver program for certain eligible non-immigrant applicants who wish to renew their visas. Israeli nationals may qualify for interview waiver if they apply in Israel; have no prior visa refusals (unless waived or overcome); and display no apparent or potential ineligibility. Renewal applicants must apply within 48 months of the prior visa’s expiration date. It should be noted that in-person interviews may still be required based on individual cases and at the discretion of the Consular Officer.

As the Israel-Palestine crisis continues to evolve, CIBT will continue to monitor any developments and provide updates as necessary.

Friday 10 November Update:

The Ministry of Interior in Israel are yet to provide further information regarding an automatic extension to work visas for foreign employees beyond 9 November.

Further to our previous alert advising that expiration dates of valid work visas would be extended up to 9 November 2023, immigration authorities have not yet released an additional automatic extension of work visas for foreign employees or published any official guidelines to clarify the situation.

Foreign nationals who have already departed Israel with visas due to expire whilst they are outside of Israel must have their visa extensions processed at Israeli consulates before the expiry of their current visas. Due to the complexity and evolving nature of the conflict, we recommend liaising with immigration providers for further advice as several Israeli consulates worldwide are working with reduced hours or are currently closed. All matters, including the lack of clear government guidelines for visa extensions, should be reviewed on a case-by-case basis and will depend on various factors including the employee’s nationality, physical location, and visa expiration date as well as other considerations.

For some consular matters, there may be a possibility to submit a special request for a waiver from consular processing and to instead have this completed in Israel, However, should this be successful, work activities can only commence once the visa processing is complete in Israel (which may take an additional 1-2 days).  We would recommend that all employers of foreign nationals seeking to extend their stay in Israel, begin the process for visa renewals three months prior to their visa expiration date to allow for sufficient time for work visas to be processed.

Meanwhile, the Rafah crossing from Gaza into Egypt continues to open periodically. This week, a number of foreign passport holders and some injured evacuees passed through the crossing following a two-day suspension.  The Rafah border crossing is the only exit from Gaza that does not border Israel.

As the Israel-Palestine crisis continues to evolve, CIBT will continue to monitor any developments and provide updates as necessary.

Wednesday 01 November Update:

The Rafah border crossing connecting Gaza with Egypt has reopened for the first time since the start of the conflict between Israel and Hamas.  Severely injured Palestinians requiring hospital treatment as well as dual national foreign passport holders have been permitted to evacuate Gaza.  The embassies of the people permitted to leave the warzone have been informed in advance.  It is expected that further evacuations will take place in the coming days.

Meanwhile, Israeli immigration authorities have advised that that the expiration date for all visas (other than B-1 work visas) – which were due to expire before 8 February 2024, will automatically be extended to 8 February 2024. Additionally, foreign nationals working in the domestic caregiving and agriculture sectors whose work permits were due to expire between 7 October 2023, and 7 January 2024, will now be granted an extension of three months from the expiration date of each permit.

Unless any further announcements are made regarding extensions, visas should be extended following the regular extension process.  As mentioned previously, all visa holders with an expiration date prior to 9 November 2023, including work visas, will automatically be extended to 9 November 2023.

The Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs have now closed Israeli embassies in the following countries: Egypt, Jordan, Bahrain, Turkmenistan, and Morocco.

As the Israel-Palestine crisis continues to evolve, CIBT will continue to monitor any developments and provide updates as necessary.

Friday 27 October update:

Immigration authorities in the United Arab Emirates have placed additional security checks on Palestinian and Israeli nationals applying for visas required to obtain employment and dependent permits.  Additionally, Newland Chase has observed an increasing trend of visit visa refusals from Lebanon, Egypt, and Palestine.

It is still possible for Israeli citizens to enter the UAE, and the UAE is still granting visa on arrival for tourism/business meetings.

Currently, it is not possible for Israeli nationals to enter Lebanon, Egypt, Qatar or Saudi Arabia unless there are humanitarian grounds to apply for an exemption to enter these countries. As the conflict develops, we anticipate that additional countries may consider restricting entry for Israeli citizens.

Finally, a growing number of countries are advising their citizens to avoid travel to Lebanon at this time. The US State Department has raised its advisory for Lebanon to Level 4: Do Not Travel. The US embassy in Lebanon is advising American citizens who wish to depart Lebanon to leave immediately, due to the unpredictable security situation. International flights from Beirut–Rafic Hariri Airport are still operating, though at reduced capacity. The US Embassy in Lebanon further is offering potential financial assistance to Americans wishing to leave Lebanon, but who lack funds.

Tuesday 24 October update:

Cyprus to assist with evacuation and repatriation 

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Cyprus have implemented the Special National Plan ESTIA to support with the evacuation and repatriation of foreign citizens from an area in crisis.

Special National Plan ESTIA is activated in times of emergency or crisis, to allow for the safe evacuation of civilians from a nearby crisis area (in this instance the wider Middle East region) through Cyprus.  More specifically, in consultation with the embassies of 26 countries (including the US, Denmark, UK, Portugal, Holland, Belgium and Germany), Cyprus will operate as a transit for foreign nationals seeking to return to their home countries. Cypriot authorities are arranging temporary accommodation, food, and special return flights to transport foreign citizens back to their country of nationality.  The Special National Plan ESTIA is not applicable for Israeli or Palestinian nationals.

Holders of Israeli passports can enter Cyprus as visitors, without a visa for stays that do not exceed 90 days within a six-month period provided that their passport will be valid for at least three months at the date of departure.

Palestinian nationals cannot enter Cyprus as visitors and will need to apply for a visa. If they are already holders of a visa allowing entry to Cyprus, it is recommended to check with their embassy their individual status to find any available options.

As the Israel-Palestine crisis continues to evolve, CIBT will continue to monitor any developments and provide updates as necessary.

Friday 20 October update:

Israeli citizens eligible for visa-free travel to US effective immediately

The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) have announced, with immediate effect, that Israeli citizens will be permitted to undertake short-term travel to the United States under the U.S Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) scheme.

US authorities had previously designated Israel into the U.S. Visa Waiver Program effective 30 November 2023, however the implementation date has now been brought forward due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.  Successful applicants will be able to enter the United States for tourism or business purposes for up to 90 days. Israeli citizens and nationals who currently have a valid B-1/B-2 visas can also continue to use them for business and tourist travel to the United States.

Eligible Israeli citizens and nationals must have a biometrically enabled passport book. ESTA applications may take up to 72 hours for processing. The ESTA application will be available in English only at this time and is expected to be available in other languages by 1 November 2023.  ESTA is an automated system that assists in determining eligibility to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program. Upon completion of an ESTA application, travellers are notified of their eligibility to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program. Holders of non-biometric, temporary, or emergency travel documents, or travel documents from a non-Visa Waiver Program designated country will not be eligible for an ESTA but can instead apply for a U.S. visa.  Additionally, any individuals intending to stay in the United States longer than 90 days should consider applying for a visa instead of an ESTA.

Eligible travellers can apply online for authorization to travel to the United States through the ESTA at esta.cbp.dhs.gov or by downloading the “ESTA Mobile” app through iOS App Store or the Google Play Store.

Rafah border remains closed to Palestinian and foreign nationals in Gaza

Meanwhile, Palestinians and all foreign nationals continue to be unable to evacuate from Gaza across the neighbouring border to Egypt. In addition to border sites with Israel being closed, the Rafah crossing on the border of Egypt and Gaza remains shut meaning that it is not possible to evacuate the ongoing war taking place in Gaza.

As the Israel-Palestine crisis continues to evolve, CIBT will continue to monitor any developments and provide updates as necessary.

Friday 13 October update:

On 12 October 2023, the immigration authorities in Israel (known as the Population, Immigration and Border Authority ‘PIBA’), have announced that they will be closed to the public until further notice.  No indication has been provided regarding the duration of the closure.  This is likely to cause a further delay to work permit applications currently in process in Israel and/or at Israeli Consulates internationally.  For up-to-date information on the specific locations of the office closures, we recommend reviewing information on the PIBA website (piba.gov.il) or on telegram at: https://t.me/pibaIsrael.

Travel to Israel continues to be severely impacted by the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine. Whilst some scheduled flights are operating as normal, individuals planning to enter or depart Israel should anticipate delays or cancellations.  The Ministry of Interior desk at Ben Gurion Airport Terminal 3 should be contacted in case an emergency passport is required for any individuals who has a flight booked within a 48-hour period.  More information on eligibility and issuance of emergency passports can be found on the PIBA website (Issue a emergency passport(temporary) or travel document | Population and Immigration Authority (www.gov.il))

As the Israel-Palestine crisis continues to evolve, CIBT will continue to monitor any developments and provide updates as necessary.

Wednesday 11 October update:

Further to our client alert on 9 October 2023, the security situation in Israel and Gaza remains unstable due to the ongoing conflict.  Ben Gurion Airport remains operational and commercial airlines are continuing flights to and from Israel, albeit with several scheduled flights being delayed or cancelled. As of 11 October, there have been no reported consular or embassy closings in Israel. This could change at any time and we will continue to monitor the situation and advise accordingly.

Immigration authorities in Israel have confirmed that the expiration dates of all currently valid work visas expiring for the next month will be extended until at least 9 November 2023. After this period, if no subsequent notification is issued, work permits or visas will need to be extended in accordance with the standard procedures.

Work permit applications currently in process may be delayed due to staff shortages within the immigration authorities in Israel and/or at Israeli Consulates internationally. As the Israel-Palestine crisis continues to evolve, CIBT will continue to monitor any developments and provide updates as necessary.

Monday 9 October:

The attacks by Hamas against Israel on Saturday have sparked a crisis situation across the country. CIBT has been monitoring the situation to determine how travel in and out of Israel will be affected.

As of Monday morning, there were no reported consular or embassy closings in Israel. This could change at any time, and we will continue to monitor the situation.

The US State Department in an official announcement is saying “the situation in Israel remains dynamic” but has not as yet issued a formal travel advisory. The State Department has published the following information for US citizens in Israel, saying: “US citizens seeking to be in touch with the US Embassy in Israel, can call 1-833-890-9595 (toll free) and 606-641-0131 (local). For the latest security alert regarding Israel, please click here.”

Meanwhile, the government of the United Kingdom issued an urgent advisory warning people to “avoid travel to Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories.” The Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office has specifically warned against all travel to Gaza, the Sheba’a Farms, and Ghajjar, as well as any areas within 500 meters of the borders with neighboring Lebanon and Syria, as well as all but essential travel to areas in the northern West Bank.

In terms of travel, Ben Gurion International Airport – Israel’s primary international airport – remains open, though sporadic closures due to Hamas rocket attacks are possible. A number of airlines, including America, Delta, British Airways, and Lufthansa, cancelled flights to Tel Aviv over the weekend and are scaling back operations this week. Anyone with a scheduled flight to or from Israel should check with your carrier on the current status of your flight.

Cruise lines are also being affected by the conflict. On Saturday both Holland America Lines and Oceana immediately suspended shore excursions and hastily left the port of Haifa in northern Israel on Saturday. Most cruise lines are either diverting from scheduled stops in Israel or canceling shorter cruises entirely.

The situation in Israel is rapidly developing. CIBT will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are consulates and embassies in Israel operating differently in light of the conflict? Will there be delays in visa and work permit issuance?

As of October 13, we have no reports of foreign embassy or consulate closures in Israel, though this may change as the conflict goes on, so please follow Newland Chase’s blog and social media accounts for updates.

On 12 October 2023, the immigration authorities in Israel (known as the Population, Immigration and Border Authority or ‘PIBA’), have announced that they will be closed to the public until further notice.  No indication has been provided regarding the duration of the closure.  This is likely to cause a further delay to work permit applications currently in process in Israel and/or at Israeli Consulates internationally.

Does CIBT provide services in the region?

Yes, we can provide travel document services to the region, including providing visas.

Can business travelers still move in and out of the region?

Yes, there are no broad travel bans currently in place, though some governments, like the United Kingdom and United States, are advising against travel to the region in general and are saying not to travel to Gaza specifically.

Flights into and out of David Ben Gurion airport – Israel’s main international airport – are subject to delays and cancelations, with some airlines stopping flights into Israel.

Can tourists still move in and out of the region?

Yes, there are no general travel bans currently in place, though many governments are advising against travel to the region. Flights into and out of David Ben Gurion airport – Israel’s main international airport – are subject to delays and cancelations, with some airlines stopping flights into Israel.

Cruise lines have been diverting away from port calls in Israel, and ending shore excursions, so if you are traveling to Israel as part of a cruise, the itinerary will likely remove any stops in Israel.

Anyone traveling to Israel currently for tourist purposes should exercise extreme caution and register with your country’s embassy in Israel upon arrival so you can be contacted in case of emergencies.

What precautions should foreign nationals in the region take?

If you are a foreign national currently in the Israel/Palestine region (or even in a neighboring country such as Lebanon or Jordan which could see fighting spill over into their countries) we recommend you register with your country’s embassy or consulate in case support is needed at any time.

US citizens should enroll in STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program), which both lets local embassies and consulates know you are in the region and provides you with emergency alerts and advisories.

It is also important to keep a copy of your travel documents (copies of your passport, national ID cards, travel visas, work permits, etc.) with you at all times. Also monitor local media for real-time information on any potential disturbances in your immediate area.

Can Israelis travel to the United States without a visa?

Yes. A visa-waiver scheme between the US and Israel was scheduled to go into effect in November. Due to the ongoing conflict, the visa-waiver program has begun immediately. Israelis can now travel to the US for periods up to 90 days without a visa. For longer stays, a visa will still be required.

Can foreign nationals who are currently in Gaza leave?

Foreign governments have been working to arrangements for their citizens currently in Gaza to leave, though mobility is greatly affected by active military operations. The foreign nationals should plan to leave via the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt. The Rafah crossing has been open for limited periods of time for humanitarian reasons since the beginning of the conflict. Foreign nationals should work with their local embassy or consulate on procedures to leave Gaza.

How long is this conflict expected to last?

There is no way to tell, though we will work to provide information and travel document service for the duration of the conflict.

Where can travelers get regular updates?

Our staff is following developments in the region closely and will provide updates on any announced travel restrictions or embassy/consulate closings. Please follow our social media channels and our blog for updates.

Links
Blog: Immigration Insights – Newland Chase Global Immigration Services for Corporations & Individuals
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cibt/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cibtcorp
Twitter: https://twitter.com/CIBTGlobal

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An ETA is a new requirement for individuals who do not need a visa to come to the UK. If granted, an ETA provides permission to travel to the UK and will be electronically linked to the applicant’s passport.

Who is required to obtain an ETA prior to travel?

UKVI have published that the “ETA scheme will apply to third country national (i.e. not British or Irish) passengers visiting the UK or transiting the UK who do not currently need a visa for short stays, as well as those using the Creative Worker route for a short stay”.

Nationals of Qatar will require an ETA if travelling to the UK from 15 November 2023.

Other nationals of the countries set out below will require an ETA prior to traveling to the UK from 22 February 2024:

• Bahrain
• Jordan
• Kuwait
• Oman
• Saudi Arabia
• United Arab Emirates

It is anticipated that further countries will be added to the scheme in due course. UKVI have stated that they intend for the ETA scheme to apply worldwide for visitors, including those visiting from Europe “by the end of 2024”.

Who will not require an ETA?

An ETA is not required for those who are British, Irish passport holders, or those who have existing permission to live, work or study in the UK or hold a visa to enter the UK.

Those that are legally resident in Ireland and do not require a visa to visit the UK, will not need to obtain an ETA if they are travelling from one of the below:

• Ireland
• Guernsey
• Jersey
• Isle of Man

What will ETA holders be permitted to do in the UK?

ETA holders will be permitted to:

• Travel to the UK for up to 6 months for tourism, visiting friends/family, on business or study.
• Travel to the UK for up to 3 months via the Creative Worker visa concession.
• Transit through the UK.

How do I obtain an ETA?

UKVI have confirmed that an ETA can be obtained by making an application via the UK ETA app or online via the GOV.UK website. Applicants will be asked to provide biometric details.

A decision is sent via email confirmation within 3 working days and the ETA linked electronically to the passport used to make the application. Travellers are advised to travel to the UK using the same passport linked to the ETA.

What is the duration of an ETA and Costs?

An ETA is stated to be valid for a period of 2 years. It will be multiple entry. Those who are eligible to use the ePassport gate will still be able to do so, alternatively at arrival, the individual will need to see a Border Force officer to enter the UK.

Interestingly, UKVI have confirmed that if the ETA holder obtains a new passport in less than 2 years, they must apply to obtain a new ETA.

Whilst a specific fee has not yet been announced, it has been stated by UKVI that the “cost of an ETA will be in line with similar international schemes, and individuals can make multiple visits to the UK over a 2-year validity period.”

What happens if I am refused an ETA?

Alternatives to an ETA would be to:

1. Apply for a standard visitor visa
2. Apply for a transit visa
3. Apply for a Temporary Work – Creative Worker visa

If you have any compliance queries on the above or which are more nuanced please contact us directly on Discovery@newlandchase.com For general advice and information on immigration and business travel to the UK, please contact us.

This immigration update is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal or scenario-specific advice. Furthermore, it is important to note that immigration announcements are subject to sudden and unexpected changes. Readers are encouraged to reach out to Newland Chase for any case- or company-specific assessments.

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The scheme will be implemented for “non-visa nationals” who do not require a visa before traveling to the UK and nationalities entitled to the Electronic Visa Waiver. Those eligible will receive a pre-approved digital travel authorization to enter the UK. Through this scheme, the UK government aims to strengthen security checks in advance of an individual’s arrival and should also result in a more seamless entry process at the UK border for all travellers.

This scheme will be rolled out in stages and is anticipated to be fully in force by the end of 2024. The first stage will be in private beta testing. The second will see the scheme rolled out to nationals of Qatar, Kuwait, United Arab Emirates, Oman, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, and the third to the rest of the eligible nationalities.

FAQs:

Who will need an Electronic Travel Authorisation visa waiver to enter the UK?

The full list of eligible countries are yet to be confirmed but it is expected that non-visa nationals such as those from EEA member states, Australia, USA, New Zealand, Japan, Brazil, etc will need to apply prior to entering the UK. It will also be rolled out for the Gulf States currently eligible for the Electronic Visa Waiver.

It will not be required for British or Irish nationals or those with valid permission to enter or remain in the UK.

The ETA will be required for those wishing to enter the UK for transit purposes or as visitors for Tourism, Business, Short Term study, and Medical Treatment.

What will the application process be?

Individuals applying for an ETA will be required to complete a short application form and provide their biographic, biometric and contact details. This information will then be checked and assessed to determine whether the person can travel to the UK. Individuals are expected to receive their ETA within a short time of submitting their application.

Is the ETA a visa?

The ETA is not a visa. On arrival at the UK border, an individual will still need to obtain leave to enter, as per the current process.

Will there be a fee?

Fees have yet to be released although it is likely to be in line with similar schemes available in countries such as USA, Australia, and Canada.

What will happen if I don’t apply for an ETA before traveling?

Airline carriers will be expected to confirm that an ETA has been obtained prior to travelling to the UK. Otherwise, individuals may be liable to a penalty charge.

UK Visas and Immigration will use interactive “advance passenger information” (API) to confirm whether an individual has the appropriate permission to travel to the UK and return an electronic message to the airline carrier confirming the same.

Further information

Once the scheme is available, employers should ensure that eligible employees intending to visit the UK for business purposes apply for their ETA in advance.

Newland Chase will continue monitoring any developments.

Organisations and individuals impacted by this development are encouraged to contact a Newland Chase immigration specialist for case-specific advice.

For general advice and information on immigration and business travel to the UK, please contact us.

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In preparation for travelers heading to the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar, the authorities have announced that any foreigners traveling from 1 November 2022 to Qatar should procure a Hayya Card prior to entering the country, except Qatari Residence permit holders.

However, there is no clear information from the authorities as as to whether travelers on Qatar temporary work visas are required to secure a Hayya card. No other standard visit/travel/visa-free/visa-on- arrival permits will be issued during this period and Hayya will be considered as the entry permit.

Residents of United Arab Emirates and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries will also need a Hayya card to enter Qatar starting from 1 November 2022. This requirement is applicable to all travelers intending to visit Qatar, irrespective of whether they are traveling to attend the FIFA World Cup, for leisure, or any other purpose.

Those with confirmed match tickets can apply for a Hayya card now. The traveler’s accommodation will also need to be validated during the process. To apply for a digital Hayya Card, and to book accommodation, please visit Qatar2022.qa or download the Hayya to Qatar 2022 app (available on iOS and Android).

Hayya Card is operated by the government of the State of Qatar. For any questions relating to the digital Hayya Card please contact info@hayya.qa or call 800.2022 (Qatar) or (+974) 4441.2022 (International). Please contact enquiries@book.qatar2022.qa, for enquiries regarding the accommodation options.

Qatar Travel Prior to 1 November 2022

Travelers who intend to travel to Qatar before 1 November 2022 may be permitted to entry the country based on the below categories of visas. If the traveler intends to attend FIFA World Cup 2022 matches, they will still need to secure a Hayya card to access the stadium.

Visa on Arrival – 90 days

Nationals of the countries listed in the table below can secure a visa on arrival for 180 days from the date of issuance and are entitled to stay in Qatar only for 90 days, during either a single trip or on multiple trips.

Visa on arrival – 30 days + extendable 30 days

Nationals of the countries listed in the table below can secure a visa on arrival for 30 days from the date of issuance and are entitled to spend up to 30 days in Qatar, during either a single trip or on multiple trips. The visa on arrival can be extended for a further 30 days in-country.

India and Pakistan

Citizens of India and Pakistan are eligible to apply for the 30-day visa waiver/visa on arrival for single or multiple-entry visits during the 30 days from the date of initial issuance. However, there are some additional rules in place.

• Travelers from India and Pakistan should have passport validity for a minimum of six months or more.
• Travelers must carry confirmed return tickets.
• Hotel quarantine booking for the number of days advised (currently one day which ends after proof of a negative test).
• Travelers must carry a valid credit card or a minimum cash amount of USD 1400 (may vary and recommended to check with the carrying airline prior to making travel plans).
• Hotel bookings for the duration of the stay must be booked in advance through the Discover Qatar website.
• Travelers from both countries should have a certificate confirming a negative PCR test completed during the 72 hours from the time of arrival.
• Travelers must be fully vaccinated with vaccines approved by the Ministry of Public Health and have completed a period of 14 days after the last dose.
• Those coming directly from Pakistan should also present a certificate of vaccination against polio.
• Passengers arriving in Qatar must download and activate the Ehteraz app upon arrival at Qatar’s entry ports.

Visa-Free Entry for GCC Nationals

GCC nationals do not need a visa to travel to Qatar. This applies to citizens of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates.

For general advice and information on immigration and business travel to Qatar, please contact us.

This immigration update is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal or scenario-specific advice. Furthermore, it is important to note that immigration announcements are subject to sudden and unexpected changes. Readers are encouraged to reach out to Newland Chase for any case- or company-specific assessments.

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By implementing its vision, the Home Office claims that the UK will boast the world’s most effective and secure border system, to enable and support growth prosperity, that (with help from the Law Commission) will be simple to understand and operate, and that prioritises public protection.

On the back of its revamping of the points-based system in 2021 – and which the New Plan extols, citing its many successes – and the subsequent provision of “safe and legal routes” to the UK via the Hong Kong British Nationals (Overseas) route, Afghan Citizens Resettlement Scheme, and Ukraine Schemes, the Home Office’s focus is now shifting to the individual circumstances of those using the UK’s immigration system, by promising the following by 2025:

• Improved customer services through:

• • the provision of simple guidance for individuals, including the publication of ‘how to’ videos, so that users will more clearly understand their eligibility, the application process, and how to comply with UK immigration rules;
  • call centres and digital self-service for information, process explanations, and guidance on being compliant, including the introduction of chatbot and voicebot functionality scheduled for 2023;
  • streamlined digital application processes, using identify capture and verification;
  • faster application processing;
  • continued roll-out of ‘eVisas’, accessible via a user-friendly online system (digital customer account) or ‘system to system’ services;
  • continued implementation of the ‘View & Prove’ service via the user’s digital customer account, allowing individuals to demonstrate their rights via simple online services, with greater sharing of data between government departments (e.g. DWP, HMRC, NHS are already in place, and the proposed involvement in 2022/2023 of DVLA, Social Security Scotland, the Student Loans Company and some local authorities), including the One Login programme, to reduce need for individuals to repeatedly demonstrate their rights and entitlements;
  • conversion to eVisas for those individuals with existing immigration status by the end of 2024, for which help and guidance will be provided; and
  • phasing-out of physical evidence of immigration status (e.g. BRPs) by December 2024 – the Home Office assures that lessons learnt from Windrush mean that no-one should be left-behind through this transition, with help to be provided for those converting to eVisas

• better targeting and “watchlisting” at the border;

• slicker and more efficient borders:
  • higher levels of e-Gates usage, on the basis that “we live in a digital age, in which businesses and customers expect a swift, user-friendly experience”, with a view to lowering the user-age minimum from 12 to 10 years and extending usage to individuals with immigration permission;
  • implementation of better informed ‘counting in and counting out’ processes;
  • more efficient use of biometric data from 2022/2023, to recognise individuals at different points in the system, thereby removing the need for repeat capture of such data;
  • partnership with all types of carriers and ports by early 2024 to enhance user experience by developing a single, integrated approach to security, immigration, and health (if applicable) pre-departure checks, based on the Home Office’s existing Advance Passenger Information (API) systems; and
  • improvement of digital case working processes

In conjunction with the delivery a fully end-to-end digital customer experience, there are also ambitions for:

• contactless travel for British citizens and “most trusted overseas partners” of the UK;
• a flagship “permission to travel scheme” to be unveiled in 2023, touted as making it easier for the UK’s ‘friends’ to travel and contribute to the UK, in turn making it “harder for those we do not want to come here” – this will require all travellers to the UK to secure permission prior to travel here, with a view to avoiding ‘turning away’ or detaining travellers at ports of entry;
• the roll-out of Electronic Travel Authorisations (ETA) in 2023 (Q1 Private Beta test; Q1-Q3 – Qatar, Kuwait, United Arab Emirates, Oman, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia; Q3-Q4 rest of the world), required by travellers to the UK to enable the Home Office to address issues “upstream” and garner intelligence on those wishing to come to the UK – to be issued an ETA (not a visa but permission to travel – leave to enter will still be required at the port of entry), travellers will be required to provide biographic, biometric and contact details, and answer a short set of suitability questions;
• reductions to processing times for sponsor licence applications in the wake of reforms to this process between now and 2024, with improvements to short-term issues in labour supply expected for delivery by Spring 2023 – it’s worth noting, however, that the August 2021 Sponsorship Roadmap indicated reforms were intended to be implemented by 2024, whereas this has been pushed-back to 2025 (subject to user feedback and testing), as follows:

• • Early 2023 – to streamline the process for sponsors, applicants and enable more efficient caseworking, existing sponsors will have the ability to invite a worker to make their visa application once role details have been approved with the role information pre-populated;
  • Late 2023 – to give the Home Office greater understanding about a sponsor and their sponsored worker, and allow for quicker decision-making the online management system for all sponsors to carry out post licence activities will be improved e.g. allowing sponsors to make changes such as adding users to their licence; and
  • Early 2024 – to make it easier for prospective sponsors to apply for a sponsor licence automated data checks will be introduced – this will reduce the opportunity for abuse, reduce and simplify the evidence requirements placed on prospective sponsors, and reduce casework processing times

• Exploration of existing and new automation technologies for air, maritime and rail ports and the trial of a pre-clearance model where border control requirements are fulfilled prior to the individual’s departure

Newland Chase will be keeping a close eye on the above developments with a view to keeping our clients ahead of the curve. Individuals and organisations impacted by this development are encouraged to contact their Newland Chase immigration specialist for case-specific advice.

For general advice and information on immigration and business travel to the UK, please contact us.

This immigration update is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal or scenario-specific advice. Furthermore, it is important to note that immigration announcements are subject to sudden and unexpected changes. Readers are encouraged to reach out to Newland Chase for any case- or company-specific assessments.

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The move will deepen the UK’s partnership with Saudi Arabia and Bahrain and enhance diplomatic ties and economic prosperity. Saudi Arabia and Bahrain will join other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states with electronic visa waiver status, the Home Office has announced. The move will maintain security and effective border processes ensuring necessary security checks are carried out ahead of travel whilst enabling smooth transit through the UK border for visitors.

An EVW offers a faster, easier, and cheaper process to visit the UK than a Visit visa. An application can be made between three months and 48 hours in advance of travel and costs £30. There is no requirement for applicants to provide biometrics, attend a Visa Application Centre or surrender passports in advance of travel for an EVW as there is with visas. The visa requirements for work, study and settlement in the UK remain in place.

Customers who have applied for a Visit visa and have not submitted their biometrics (fingerprints) can withdraw their application and receive a refund on their visa fee. Withdrawals can be made here: www.gov.uk/cancel-visaIndividuals and organisations impacted by this development are encouraged to contact a Newland Chase immigration specialist for case-specific advice.

For general advice and information on immigration and business travel to the UK, please contact us.

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Note that this suspension is only applicable to new visa applications. Lebanese citizens who are currently resident in Kuwait may continue to exit- and re-enter the country freely and are still eligible to renew their Kuwait residency status.

It remains unknown if any other GCC countries (Bahrain, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates) will follow suit and also temporarily suspend visa issuance for Lebanese citizens. Newland Chase continues to monitor the situation in the region closely and will provide any updates as they are announced.

Newland Chase Insights

International relations can often affect immigration and travel options between disputing countries and, as the diplomatic spat between Lebanon and the GCC continues, we may see additional temporary visas suspensions in the region. It is important for sponsoring employers in the region to monitor any possible additional changes while the political situation between these countries remains tense.

As always, don’t hesitate to reach out to your Newland Chase dedicated contact or submit an inquiry here should you have any specific questions regarding this announcement.

This immigration update is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal or scenario-specific advice. Furthermore, it is important to note that immigration announcements are subject to sudden and unexpected changes. Readers are encouraged to reach out to Newland Case for any case- or company-specific assessments.

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What is a COVID-19 Passport or Travel Certificate System?

COVID-19 travel certificate systems involve digital or physical records of a person’s COVID-19 status. Though sometimes known as COVID-19 ‘passports’, these systems certify a traveler’s health records only and do not in themselves grant travel or entry permissions. The app or certificate may include information about vaccinations, PCR test results, or immunity through previous infection, among other details. The systems are intended to allow government authorities, transportation companies and other entities to assess whether an individual meets the COVID-19 travel requirements and whether they can be granted permission to enter the country or access services.

Many countries are grappling with the legal and ethical considerations of instituting a COVID-19 travel certificate system, as well as potential data privacy concerns. A patchwork of solutions exists to this complex situation.

A wide range of organizations are currently planning or developing versions of a COVID-19 travel certificate system; these include the EU, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and many private companies and national governments. While these systems have the potential to streamline travel across borders, none is universally accepted by government authorities or airlines, and there is no accepted international standard for such systems. The success of a particular system will depend on addressing these issues.

Let’s take a look at some of the systems in place across the world, and explore how companies can find their way through the maze of approaches and requirements.

Contact us to learn more about Newland Chase’s full spectrum of visa and immigration services.

The EU Digital COVID Certificate

On 14 June 2021 the legislative process for the Regulation on the EU Digital COVID Certificate (EUDCC) was completed at an official signing ceremony attended by the presidents of the European Parliament, the Council of the EU and the European Commission. The aim of the EUDCC is to facilitate safe travel across Member States without quarantine requirements. The certificates are already being issued in several EU Member States, including Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Germany, Greece, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Poland, Portugal and Spain, as well as Iceland. They will become available in all EU Member States as of 1 July 2021, in both the EU and Schengen zone countries.

The EUDCC provides proof that a person has been vaccinated against COVID-19, received a negative test result or recovered from COVID-19. It is issued free of charge and available in digital and paper formats both in a national language and in English. It consists of a QR code and a digital signature.

Vaccination certificates will be issued to a vaccinated person for any COVID-19 vaccine. When waiving free movement restrictions, Member States will be obliged to accept vaccination certificates for any vaccines which have received EU marketing authorization and may choose to extend this to EU travelers who have received another vaccine. Member States may also decide whether they will accept a vaccination certificate after one vaccine dose or only after a full vaccination cycle has been completed.

Third-country nationals, such as US citizens, resident in an EU Member State are able to obtain an EU Digital COVID Certificate for travel to countries in the EU. Effective 19 July, Ireland will accept the EU Digital COVID Certificate for travel from within the EU/EEA.

The award-winning Entry Guide provides the most up-to-date and accurate information on what is required to enter safely and securely the most frequented destinations in global travel.

Other COVID-19 Travel Certificate Systems

In the United Kingdom, the National Health Service (NHS) has the COVID Pass app for travelers from England to prove their vaccinated status at border controls. To use the app, the individual must be registered with a General Practitioner in the UK and be over the age of 13. Scotland has a downloadable vaccine status letter, soon to be replaced with ‘COVID Status Certificates’.

In Africa, the African Union is piloting a Trusted Travel Pass for travel between African Union countries. In the APAC region, Bahrain has a digital COVID-19 vaccine passport app for fully vaccinated citizens, while Malaysia has a digital health passport which allows travel only in its travel bubble with Singapore. In the Americas, Panama has introduced a digital vaccination card, with similar downloadable vaccination passport apps being planned in Brazil and Chile.

In contrast, in the United States many states have already passed laws that forbid the use of vaccine passports within their state, including Arizona, Florida, Idaho, Montana, Texas, South Carolina and South Dakota. There are no plans to implement a national COVID-19 passport within the US at present, as some states have apps that allow citizens to show they are vaccinated to access services, such as the Excelsior Pass in New York State. These apps only work for an individual who has been vaccinated in that particular state, and there is no national database as yet.

In Israel, the Green Pass was issued by the Israeli Ministry of Health from February 2021 to show vaccination against or recovery from COVID-19 and allow access for citizens to businesses and institutions required to comply with Green Pass restrictions as the country eased out of lockdown. However, the Green Pass system has been discontinued as of 1 June 2021 as the majority of the population over 50 has been vaccinated or recovered from COVID-19.

Considerations for Employers

Companies are encouraged to examine the potential benefits and issues surrounding COVID-19 travel certificate systems as they balance their business travel needs with the changing restrictions and requirements.

Newland Chase previously published a short article on this topic on 14 April 2021. The article highlights key points employees should consider on the subject of COVID-19 passports. Those points include:

• Who exactly in the organization may require proof of their COVID-19-related health status, and for which travel and immigration purposes?
• What access do people in the organization have to vaccines and healthcare (depending on, for example, their nationality, country of residence, their age, income and beliefs)?
• Does a particular system sufficiently address international data management laws and the privacy concerns of users?
• Which systems facilitate the organization’s specific international travel and immigration requirements?
• Which systems meet broadly recognised standards, yet are resilient and flexible enough to adapt to the ongoing development in scientific understanding of COVID-19 and rapid changes in government requirements?

As these systems continue to be developed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, employers are likely to encounter these and similar issues in planning their global immigration and business travel programs.

With the complex, fast-changing nature of post-pandemic international travel and its considerable impact on employers, it is critical to have a trusted advisor by your side. Newland Chase stands ready to support you and your business travel and immigration strategies. Contact your dedicated Newland Chase Client Services Manager today for more information. Don’t have a Client Services Manager? Contact us.

This publication is not intended as a substitute for legal advice. Readers are reminded that immigration laws are subject to change. We are not responsible for any loss arising from reliance on this publication. Please contact Newland Chase should you require any additional clarification or case-specific advice.

Newland Chase, a wholly owned subsidiary of CIBT, is the leading global provider of immigration and visa services for corporations and individuals with expert immigration and visa professionals, attorneys and qualified migration consultants located in over 70 offices in 25 countries.

With thirty years of experience, CIBT is the primary service provider to 75% of Fortune 500 companies. CIBT offers a comprehensive suite of services under two primary brands: Newland Chase, focused on global immigration strategy and advisory services for corporations worldwide and CIBTvisas, the market leader for business and other travel visa services for corporate and individual clients.

The post COVID-19 Passport Systems – Where Are They Going? A Global Mobility Manager’s Guide to COVID-19 Vaccine Passport Systems appeared first on Newland Chase.

Effective immediately, employers of foreign national workers earning at least BHD 400 per month via LMRA (Expat Management System) are entitled to sponsor dependent children aged 23 years or under (previously 17 years or under).

Moreover, employers of foreign national workers earning at least BHD 1000 per month, and who hold health insurance in Bahrain, are now entitled to sponsor parents or dependent children aged 24 years or above.

SAUDI ARABIA: New Professional Verification Program for Skilled Workers

On 7 March 2021, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) launched the Professional Verification programme, aiming to verify that all skilled workers in Saudi Arabia have the required skills to perform the occupation for they were recruited.

The programme has two separate tracks. One aims to examine all skilled workers in their countries, in cooperation with selected international examination centres, ahead of their arrival in Saudi Arabia. The work visa will eventually be linked to the applicant passing the examination in their country, and this will be enforced gradually in cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The other track aims to examine existing skilled workers in Saudi Arabia in cooperation with certified local examination centres. The Ministry urges all companies to begin the verification process for all their current skilled worker in Saudi Arabia, as the verification program will become gradually enforced, based on the size of the establishment, starting in July 2021.

Effective 8 March 2021, employers in Saudi Arabia and examination centres can register via the programme’s website.

UNITED STATES: August 2019 Public Charge Rule Rescinded

Effective immediately, information required solely by the 14 August 2019 Public Charge Rule will no longer be required on certain immigration filings.

• Adjustment of Status applicants will no longer need to submit a Form I-944, Declaration of Self-Sufficiency, with applicable supporting evidence.
• Applicants and petitioners will no longer be required to answer questions regarding the receipt of public benefits on certain immigration filings.
• If such information has already been supplied in connection with pending immigration filings, USCIS will not factor such information when adjudicating a particular matter.
• Applicants and petitioners will not have to respond to USCIS requests due after 9 March 2021 for additional evidence in connection with previously submitted public benefits information for any pending matters.
• Responses will still be required for all other elements of such USCIS requests.
• USCIS may still make a public charge inadmissibility determination for certain immigration benefits under the Immigration and Nationality Act and USCIS’s 1999 Interim Final Guidance on this issue.

Our Advice

Employers who may be affected by any of these immigration changes are encouraged to contact Newland Chase for case-specific advice.

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