UK ETA for Omani Citizens

What is a UK ETA for Omani Citizens?

The UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is a digital travel permit available to Omani citizens for short stays of up to six months in the United Kingdom (UK). It was introduced to promote tourism to the UK from specific countries, including Oman.

The UK ETA was first made available to Omani citizens on February 1, 2024, with eligibility for travel to the UK starting from February 22, 2024. Currently, the UK ETA is accessible to nationals from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Jordan. As part of the effort to digitize and automate the immigration process, the UK plans to extend the UK ETA to additional nationalities in 2024.

Omani citizens can now apply for the UK ETA as an alternative to the now-defunct UK Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) scheme. The UK ETA offers a quicker and simpler application process for the required travel permit. It is not only easy to apply for but also provides a more flexible option with a validity of two years and the ability to make multiple entries.

This electronic authorization enables Omani citizens to travel to and stay in the UK for up to six months for purposes such as tourism, visiting family and friends, short-term study courses, or brief business activities. It can also be obtained for up to three months under the Creative Worker visa concession or for approved paid engagements. Additionally, Omani travelers transiting through the UK can secure a UK ETA even if they do not go through border control.

Benefits of the UK ETA for Omani Citizen

There are numerous benefits to acquiring a UK ETA for a short-term visit. From cost savings to flexible travel options, here are the advantages of the UK ETA for Omani citizens:

To simplify the application process for certain foreign nationals, the UK government has made the UK ETA application quick and easy. It can be completed entirely online in just a few straightforward steps.

The UK ETA is both affordable and cost-effective. For just £70, applicants can benefit from comprehensive application assistance and have their administrative fees covered through our premium services.

The UK ETA offers greater flexibility for travel plans. If approved at the border, holders can move freely throughout the United Kingdom for up to six months. They also benefit from multiple entries over a two-year validity period, as long as they do not exceed the allowed duration of stay.

The ETA is among the quickest travel permits for processing. For most applicants, the decision on the UK ETA application is typically made within three working days, with some receiving a decision in just a few hours.

UK ETA Eligibility Criteria for Omani Citizens

Omani citizens wishing to apply for a UK ETA must meet eligibility criteria and provide the necessary documentation. Here are the basic requirements for all Omani citizens applying for the UK electronic travel authorization:

Omani citizenship

All applicants must possess a valid Omani passport. A copy of this passport must be uploaded to the online application and will be verified by UK immigration authorities. Failure to provide this document will result in the application being rejected.

Intent to stay for a short period

The UK ETA allows stays of up to six months, or three months under the Creative Worker visa. It's like a ticket for a short visit—if your plans require a longer stay, you’ll need a different type of UK visa, much like upgrading to a different pass for a longer journey.

Clean criminal record

Applicants should have a clean criminal record and be able to demonstrate they have not been involved in criminal activities, terrorism, or extremism. If needed, applicants can self-declare their status. This information will be reviewed by UK authorities to determine the applicant’s eligibility for the UK ETA.

UK ETA Validity and Duration of Stay

The UK ETA is a multiple-entry digital travel permit valid for up to two years for Omani citizens. During this two-year period, Omani holders can exit and re-enter the UK as often as they wish, provided they do not exceed the maximum stay duration of three or six months based on the purpose of their visit. Omani citizens with a Creative Worker ETA can stay for up to three months, while all other ETA holders can stay for up to six months.

The UK ETA is electronically linked to the holder’s passport and remains valid for two years, unless the passport expires earlier. If the passport expires, the ETA will also become invalid. Therefore, it is recommended to apply with a passport that is valid for more than two years from the date of entry into the UK.

UK ETA Requirements for Omani Nationals

All Omani nationals applying for a UK ETA must provide the necessary documents for their application to be processed. Here are the basic requirements for the UK ETA application:

A valid passport

All applicants must submit a copy of a valid passport. It is advisable to use a passport that remains valid for more than two years from the date of entry into the UK to fully benefit from the UK ETA.

A personal photograph

All personal photographs must adhere to the GOV.UK guidelines. This includes a file size ranging from 50KB to 10MB and dimensions of 600 x 750 pixels. The photograph should be clear, in color, and recent.

A valid payment method

The visa application fee can be paid online using a valid payment method. Accepted forms of payment include credit or debit cards, Google Pay, and Apple Pay. Applicants should ensure they have sufficient funds before completing the payment.

Applying for a UK ETA for Omani Citizens

Applying for a UK ETA as an Omani citizen is simple and can be done online. Here are the basic steps that all Omani applicants will follow to apply for the UK ETA:

UK ETA Processing Time for Omani Citizens

The UK ETA boasts one of the quickest processing times among UK travel permits and visas. Applicants can typically expect a decision within three working days, with some receiving a response in just a few hours, depending on their individual case.

UK ETA Fees for Omani Citizens

The UK ETA fees are reasonably priced. For £70, applicants cover both the government fees and our professional service fees. Our expert team provides guidance throughout the application process and offers regular updates on the status of the ETA application.

Travel with a UK ETA

Departure to the UK

The UK ETA is an electronic travel permit linked to the holder’s passport, valid for two years or until the passport expires. Holders must carry their passports with them upon arrival in the UK and throughout their short stay. For added security, it is advisable to print a copy of the ETA and/or the approval email and keep these documents handy upon arrival in the UK in case of any unforeseen issues.

Please note that the UK ETA is not a visa and does not grant the holder automatic entry into the UK. It is a travel permit that allows the holder to travel to the UK. The final decision on whether the holder can enter the UK is made by the border official upon arrival.

Arrival and Entry Procedures in the UK

Upon arriving in the UK, Omani citizens must present their valid passports to UK border officials. This should be the same passport used for the ETA application. As Omani nationals, ETA holders should go to the border control booths instead of the ePassport Gates. Although having a valid UK ETA does not guarantee entry, it’s crucial to comply with all procedures and requests from border officials. If entry is approved, the holder’s passport will be stamped, allowing them to enter the UK.

Once they enter the UK, Omani citizens with a valid UK ETA are free to travel through England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. There is an excellent network of trains, buses, and airports throughout the UK that are accessible and easy to navigate.

FAQ

Do Omani citizens need an ETA to enter the UK?

Yes, Omani citizens must obtain an electronic travel authorization (ETA) before traveling to the UK for tourism, business, visiting friends and family, or transit. The ETA permits eligible Omani travelers to stay in the UK for short visits of up to six months.

What is the ETA for the UK?

A UK ETA, or electronic travel authorization, is a digital travel permit used by the UK government to pre-screen travelers before their arrival in the country. It allows eligible individuals, including Omani citizens, to enter the UK for short stays of up to six (6) months for tourism, business, or transit purposes without needing to obtain a traditional visa.

How do I check my UK ETA status?

Omani citizens can check the status of their UK ETA application with our expert team. We will also provide regular updates on the progress of your ETA application to keep you informed throughout the process.

Who needs an ETA?

The ETA, or electronic travel authorization, is required for travelers from certain countries who plan to visit the UK for short stays. Citizens of Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Jordan must obtain an ETA before traveling to the UK, based on specific visa requirements.

Is the ETA the same as a UK visa?

No, the ETA is not the same as a traditional UK visa. Although both permit entry into the UK for eligible travelers, the ETA is a simpler and quicker online authorization system designed for short visits. It is less expensive than a traditional visa and can be completed entirely online.

We will assist you  in every step

Apply for your UK Electronic Travel Authorization today by completing the online form to begin the process.