UK ETA for Bahraini Citizens
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What is a UK ETA for Bahraini Citizens?
The UK electronic travel authorization (ETA) for Bahrani citizens is a digital travel permit that allows the holder to visit or transit through the United Kingdom for a specified duration of time. This UK electronic authorization is valid for short stays of up to six (6) months and can be easily applied for online.
The UK ETA was opened to Bahraini nationals on February 1, 2024, with the first holders allowed to enter the UK on or after February 22, 2024. Its purpose was to streamline travel to the UK for Bahraini citizens. The system was introduced to Bahraini citizens to increase visitors from the Gulf region and boost the UK’s competitive advantage as a prime tourist destination.
From February 2024, Bahraini citizens are eligible to apply for a UK ETA as an alternative to the UK Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) scheme. The ETA UK allows holders to stay in the UK for up to six (6) months for certain short-term purposes including tourism, visiting family and friends, business, or a short-term study course.
Bahraini citizens can also obtain a UK ETA to come to the UK for up to three (3) months on the Creative Worker visa concession. Other specified purposes include an authorized paid engagement like a conference. A UK ETA can also be issued for travelers transiting through the UK, even if they do not plan to pass border security. It should be noted that the UK ETA allows the holder to travel to the UK. Permission to enter the UK will be decided at the border on arrival in the UK.
Benefits of the UK ETA for Bahraini Citizens
The United Kingdom ETA has many advantages compared to the legacy UK EVW scheme. The following are some of the key benefits for Bahraini citizens applying for a UK ETA visa:
Streamlined application process
The UK ETA application process can be completed entirely online and is much more flexible than the EVW scheme. The online system provides straightforward instructions and clear steps. The process is quick and easy, with applicants receiving a decision in as little as three (3) working days.
Cost-effective
The UK ETA is cost-effective compared to other travel permits. Our comprehensive services, including complete application guidance, regular processing updates, and coverage of government fees is just £55. Applicants do not have to provide biometrics, attend appointments, or pay administration fees. They can complete the application at home, saving on transportation costs and avoiding missed working hours.
Multiple-entry validity
As a multiple-entry permit, the UK ETA allows holders to exit and re-enter the UK several times after the initial date of entry. UK ETA holders are eligible for multiple entries during the two (2) year validity period, provided they do not exceed the three (3) or six (6) month duration of stay in the UK.
UK ETA Eligibility Criteria for Bahraini Citizens
To apply for the UK ETA from Bahrain, applicants must meet certain eligibility criteria. The following are the basic criteria that the UK immigration authorities will check for during processing:
- Bahraini citizenship: Applicants must be able to provide a valid Bahraini passport. The UK ETA system is highly automated, so failure to upload a valid Bahraini passport during the application process could result in an unsuccessful application.
- Proof of duration of stay: Applicants should only apply for the UK ETA if they intend to stay in the UK for a maximum of three (3) or six (6) months. Otherwise, they should apply for another type of UK visa such as a Standard Visitor Visa or a work visa.
- Clean criminal recordThe UK immigration authorities will flag any applicant with adverse information or involvement in criminal activities, terrorism, or extremism. Applicants should have a clean criminal record or officially declare any criminal activity for the authorities to review during the application process
UK ETA Validity and Duration of Stay
The UK ETA is valid for up to two (2) years for Bahraini citizens. If the holder’s passport expires before the two-year period is over, the visa will become void. The permitted duration of stay within the two years is typically six (6) months for tourism, visiting friends and family, business, or short-term study courses. Holders of a Creative Worker visa can stay for up to three (3) months. Within the two-year validity period, UK ETA holders can exit and reenter the UK multiple times, provided they do not exceed the duration of stay allotted for their specific visa type.
UK ETA Requirements for Bahraini Nationals
The requirements for Bahraini nationals to apply for the UK ETA are very minimal. The following are the few items that applicants will need to complete the short online procedure:
A valid passport or travel document
Applicants must upload a valid travel document, such as a passport issued by Bahrain. To fully take advantage of the UK ETA validity period, it is advised to use a passport that will be valid for more than two years beyond the date of entry into the UK.
A valid form of payment
All application fees for the UK ETA can be paid online using a valid form of payment. Most credit and debit cards, along with Apple Pay and Google Pay, are accepted payment forms. Applicants must ensure they have sufficient funds in their accounts to pay the UK ETA application fees
A valid photograph
Photographs must comply with the GOV.UK rules. They should be recent, taken within the last three (3) months, measuring 600 x 750 pixels. The file must be between 50KB and 10MB. Photos should be in color and in focus featuring the applicant’s head, shoulders, and upper body.
A working email address
All applicants will be required to have a working email address that they check regularly and can use to register and complete the application online. The ETA will be sent to the email provided, so it should be a valid address.
Applying for a UK ETA for Bahraini Citizens
The application process for Bahraini citizens to obtain a UK ETA is quick, easy, and completely digital. Here are the basic steps that all Bahraini applicants will take to apply for a UK ETA:
1
Fill out the application form
Applicants must complete the UK ETA application form online in just a few simple steps. It’s crucial that all travel and contact information be accurate and up-to-date to avoid an unsuccessful application result.
2
Upload the required documents
Applicants will upload the required documents to the UK ETA application form online as digital attachments. This includes a valid passport copy and a personal photograph that meets the GOV.UK requirements for size and formatting.
3
Pay the application fee
Applicants must pay the application fee for the UK ETA during the application process. Payments will be made online using a valid credit or debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.
4
Submit the application
After uploading all documents and paying the fee, applicants can submit their UK ETA application. It’s a good idea to double-check all sections of the application for accuracy and completion before final submission.
5
Receive Your ETA
If approved, the UK ETA will be sent to the applicant by email. After receiving the ETA, applicants should verify all the information is correct. As new holders of a UK ETA, they can proceed with their travel plans for a short stay of up to six (6) months in the UK. If the ETA application is rejected, the applicant will also be notified by email.
UK ETA Processing Time for Bahraini Citizens
UK ETAs for Bahraini citizens are processed quickly, usually taking around three (3) working days. The UK ETA system was designed to be as automated as possible, with processing times accelerated for greater ease and convenience for applicants.
UK ETA Fees for Bahraini Citizens
One of the benefits of the UK ETA scheme is its cost-effectiveness. Our inclusive UK ETA fee includes a service fee and the government’s application fee. For just £55, applicants receive hands-on guidance and application assistance from our experienced team and a two-year, multiple-entry visa to the UK.
Travel with a UK ETA
FAQ
The ETA (electronic travel authorization) for the UK is a digital travel permit required for citizens of Bahrain and various other countries traveling to the United Kingdom for short-term visits. It allows travelers to enter the UK for tourism, business, medical treatment, or study purposes for up to six (6) months during a period of two (2) years.
Bahraini citizens, along with nationals of Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan, require an ETA to enter the UK for short-term visits. The UK ETA will be made available to other non-UK or EEA/EU nationals in 2024.
You can easily check your UK ETA status online through the official UK government website. You will typically need your passport details and application reference number to access your ETA status online. If you apply through our expert team, you will receive regular updates on the status of your visa application.
The processing time for the UK ETA for Bahraini citizens can vary depending on various factors such as the current volume of applications, the accuracy of the information provided, and any additional processing requirements. In general, the ETA processing time is relatively quick, with many applications being processed within three (3) working days. However, it’s advisable to apply in advance of your planned travel dates to account for any unforeseen delays.
No, the UK does not offer visa-on-arrival facilities for Bahraini citizens or citizens of most other countries. Therefore, it’s essential to obtain your ETA before traveling to the UK. You must apply for the ETA online through the official UK government website or by contacting our team. Attempting to enter the UK without a valid ETA may result in denial of entry and possible deportation.
We will assist you in every step
Apply for your UK Electronic Travel Authorization today. Simply fill out the online form to get started.
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