UK eases visa norms for visitors from Gulf nations

From 1 January 2014 United Arab Emirates passport holders will be able to travel to the United Kingdom with a simple electronic visa waiver (EVW) document, allowing them to visit the UK for up to six months without a visa.

British secretary of state for foreign affairs William Hague, who is on a visit to the Sultanate of Oman, said today, ''The UK and Oman share a uniquely close relationship not just between our governments, but also between our people. I am therefore very pleased to say that the new electronic visa waiver scheme will allow quick and simple access to the UK to Omani passport holders from 1 January 2014. This reflects the UK's firm desire to continue to strengthen our relationship with Oman.''

Qatar and the UAE are the other countries that have been included in the visa-waiver scheme.

The traveller will have to obtain an EVW document online at least 48 hours in advance and present it to an immigration officer when requested on arrival.

The scheme was announced in a written statement made by Theresa May, secretary of state for the UK's home department, in the House of Commons on Monday.

''Today I am laying changes to the Immigration Rules to provide a new, straightforward and free alternative to a visa for short-term visitors from Oman, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. We intend to extend similar arrangements to Kuwait later in 2014. Britain is open for business, and genuine visitors and tourists coming here to enjoy our world-class attractions, study or do business are always welcome,'' the statement said.

This simple online form means there is no fee, there will be no requirement to give biometrics or attend a visa application centre. Guidance will be published on the Home Office website.

The EVW document is only valid for a single entry to the UK on the date and time specified. The biographic details on the EVW document must match exactly with the holder's passport.

Those who travel frequently, at short notice or may need to re-enter the UK as part of the same trip are advised to apply for a multi-entry visitor visa or longer-term visa. This offers more flexibility and can last up to 10 years.

Those wishing to work, study or visit the UK for longer than six months must obtain a visa and cannot travel on an EVW Document.

The EVW document is issued immediately via a secure web site and can be obtained online from anywhere in the world for travel to the UK.