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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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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The Ministry of Interior in Kuwait has suspended the issuance of family and visit visas to expats until further notice. Only doctors and European nationals who apply for online visas are excluded from this decision. Those who have been already issued visas, however, can enter the country.

The Residency Department of the Ministry of Interior (MOI) in the State of Kuwait has announced the decision to cancel residency permits per article 18 of Kuwait Residence permit holder if they are staying outside Kuwait for more than six months. Anyone who has been out of the country for a period exceeding six months must return to the State of Kuwait before 31 October 2022 to avoid their residency being cancelled.

United Arab Emirates

Residents of the UAE can apply for Israel visas at the VFS Global Visa Application Centre in Abu Dhabi. The centre accepts applications for tourism, business, student, conference, medical, relatives and family visit categories as of now.

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. 

The post MIDDLE EAST REGION: Immigration Updates from Kuwait and UAE appeared first on Newland Chase.

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.

The post UNITED KINGDOM: A New Plan appeared first on Newland Chase.

Government offices will be closed due to the upcoming Eid Al Adha holiday which is expected to fall on 9 July 2022 in most countries in the Middle East, North Africa, Turkey and parts of Asia. Foreign nationals should check with their consular posts and/or government office to determine exact closure dates, and should consult their Newland Chase immigration professional about the extent of delays they should expect due to the holiday period.

Kuwait

The Ministry of Interior in Kuwait have announced the suspension of visit visas for family and tourists  with immediate effect.  The reason for this is to prepare for a new regulatory law that will be announced in Kuwait.  There is currently no confirmed end date for the suspension of family and tourist visas.   Newland Chase will provide further updates on the suspension as soon as these are announced by the immigration authorities in Kuwait.

Qatar

Due to preparations for the upcoming World Cup commencing in November, immigration processes in Qatar have been impacted significantly.  Recent developments include:

• Significant delays in processing times for all current work permit applications in the Mainland & Free Zone.
• The Ministry of Interior has changed all the validity dates for any block visas that will expire from now until August 2022.  The new expiry date is 30 June 2022. We understand that there is a possibility that the Ministry of Interior may stop visa approvals from 1 August.
• No committee meetings will take place for family visa applications or family visit visas until further notice.

We are expecting further changes in the rules and regulation and these may be implemented with immediate effect.  Newland Chase will provide further updates as soon as these are announced by the immigration authorities in Qatar.

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. 

The post MIDDLE EAST REGION: Immigration Updates appeared first on Newland Chase.

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.

The post KUWAIT: Temporary Suspension of Visa Issuance for Lebanese Citizens appeared first on Newland Chase.

E-visas, regular visas, or stay stipulation of all foreign nationals whose visas have expired or might expire from 1 February 2020 until the date on which the international travel restrictions in India are lifted, may be extended on a ‘gratis’ basis via the Foreigners’ Regional Registration Office (FRRO).  Such extensions will be granted for up to a period of 30 days from the date of the lifting of international travel restrictions from India.

As of 0530 hrs Indian Standard Time (IST) on 22 March 2020, no scheduled international commercial passenger aircraft is permitted to take off from any foreign airport for any airport in India. These instructions shall remain in force till prohibition on international travel of passengers from/to India is lifted by the Government of India.

Hence, all incoming passenger traffic, on all 107 Immigration Check Posts which includes all Airport ICPs, all Seaport ICPs all Land Port ICPs, all Rail Port ICPs and all River Port ICPs, is prohibited. However, this restriction will not apply to international cargo operations and flights especially approved by DGCA.

All incoming travellers, including Indian nationals, arriving from or having visited China, Italy, Iran, Republic of Korea, France, Spain, Germany, UAE, Qatar, Oman or Kuwait after 15 February 2020 are placed under compulsory quarantine for a minimum period of 14 days.  The quarantine could be either at a government facility or self-isolation at home which will be determined on a case to case basis post the health screening at the airport upon arrival.

No, with the suspension of international commercial flights to India, travelling into India is currently not possible. Also, post resumption of the flight services, incoming travelers (regardless of nationality or visa type) will still need to comply with the ‘quarantine’ stipulations as directed by authorities.

No. OCI Card holders are required to obtain new Indian visas from the Indian diplomatic post (Embassy, Consulate or High Commission) in their country of residence for any urgent travels to India once international flights resume. Those OCI Card holders coming from/having visited the affected countries will require a COVID-19 Negative certificate.  At the time of writing, the Indian authorities are yet to clarify the process for obtaining these certificates.  The OCI Cards for foreigners currently in India remain valid.

Indian nationals are strongly advised to avoid non-essential travel to COVID-19 hit countries. Currently with the national lockdown, there are no scheduled international commercial flights taking off from India to any foreign country. 

Yes, they should approach their jurisdictional FRRO/FROs through e-FRRO. (https://indianfrro.gov.in/frro/). Newland Chase is available for support, of course.

Yes, they can exit India based on availability of flights. However, they must return to India on a fresh visa issued from an overseas mission/consulate only. 

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Schedule a custom 30-minute COVID-19 travel and immigration consultation tailored to your foreign national population and receive actionable guidance on your three highest volume countries, general advice for possible changes in circumstances facing your foreign national population, and insights on what your company can do now to ensure you’re in the best position to move forward when countries re-open to travel. 

Contact us to schedule a consultation to learn how we can support your business during and after the COVID-19 pandemic and keep up-to-date with the latest COVID-19 travel and immigration updates on our dedicated online resource – COVID-19: Latest Travel and Immigration Disruption. We also invite you to download one of our regional webinars, which address changes both globally, regionally and country by country.

This white paper was prepared by Nethi Thayyil, Newland Chase India Immigration Manager.

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 over 1,700 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.

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