UK gives electronic visa waiver to Saudi and Bahraini travellers
Britain has added Saudi Arabia and Bahrain to its list of countries eligible for electronic visa waivers.
This will make travel safer, cheaper and easier, the UK Home Office said.
Citizens of these countries join those from other GCC states – including the UAE, Kuwait and Qatar – in being eligible for the initiative.
From June 1, Saudi and Bahraini citizens can apply online to travel to the UK for up to six months for tourism, business, study or medical treatment, without needing to submit a visa application.
UK ambassador to Saudi Arabia Neil Crompton said the process was quick, straightforward and inexpensive.
An electronic visa waiver will cost about 140 Saudi riyals ($37), the Saudi Press Agency reported. It previously cost about $128 for a visa for six months.
Announcing the change on Wednesday, UK Home Secretary Priti Patel said the visa waiver for Saudi Arabia would “connect the people of our countries and boost economic prosperity”.
“The electronic visa waiver is a quick, digital alternative to the regular visit visa and ensures all the necessary security checks are carried out in advance of travel,” she said.
“The visa improvements announced today will provide greater security for our citizens while making it easier and cheaper for visitors from the Gulf to travel here for leisure and business.”
To be eligible for the electronic visa waiver, Saudis and Bahrainis must complete the online waiver form and pay the fees, said officials.
Ms Patel said the process was faster than applying for a visa because there was no need to provide biometric information, visit a visa application centre or hand in your passport.
UK Foreign Secretary Liz Truss said the visa waiver would strengthen the UK’s relationship with Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, making it easier for visitors from the Gulf to come to the UK.
“Our friendships with both countries are of great importance, built on shared priorities such as trade, investment and security,” she said.
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson made an official visit to Saudi Arabia in March and met Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The countries agreed to form a strategic partnership council.