Qatari Nationals to Require ETA for UK Travel Starting February 25, 2026: Everything You Need to Know

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Starting on February 25, 2026, Qatari nationals traveling to the United Kingdom will be required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before their departure. The British Embassy in Doha officially confirmed that travelers without an approved ETA will not be permitted to board flights bound for the UK.

The introduction of the ETA system is part of the UK government’s efforts to streamline its immigration process and enhance border security. While Qatari nationals are currently not subject to this requirement, from February 2026, they must apply for the ETA via the official UK mobile application or the GOV.UK website.

What Is the ETA and How Does It Affect Qatari Nationals?

The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a digital entry requirement that allows travelers to visit the UK for short stays without needing a full visa. This system is already in place for visa-exempt countries and is now expanding to include Qatari nationals. The ETA will allow multiple visits to the UK, each lasting up to six months, within a two-year period. The authorization will be linked to the traveler’s passport, and it will remain valid until the passport expires.

The introduction of the ETA for Qatari nationals is part of the UK’s broader immigration policy aimed at improving the efficiency and security of its border system. The application fee for the ETA is £16, and travelers are advised to apply at least three working days before their intended travel date to avoid any last-minute issues at the airport.

The British Embassy has emphasized that airlines and transport carriers will check for a valid ETA before boarding, meaning passengers without one will not be allowed to travel. This is a significant shift from the current system, where travelers from Qatar can enter the UK with just their passport.

Impact on Business Travel and Tourism to the UK

For business travelers and tourists from Qatar, this new ETA requirement introduces an extra step in the travel process. Business travelers, particularly those with frequent trips to the UK, will need to ensure their ETA is in place before they can board any flights. While the ETA is valid for multiple entries over a two-year period, it will still require some planning, especially for those whose travel dates are close to the new regulations coming into effect.

For tourists, the ETA will affect anyone planning a short stay in the UK, whether for sightseeing, visiting family, or business meetings. The good news is that the ETA process is straightforward and relatively quick, but it does add another administrative step for Qatari nationals planning to visit the UK.

The UK’s border security system is evolving towards a more digitized and efficient process, meaning that travelers will need to stay updated on any future changes to travel documentation requirements.

How to Apply for the ETA: A Step-by-Step Guide

Applying for the ETA is a simple process, but travelers must ensure they do so in advance to avoid issues at the airport. Here’s how Qatari nationals can apply:

1. Visit the GOV.UK Website or Mobile App: The ETA application can be completed on the official GOV.UK website or through the UK government’s ETA mobile application.
2. Fill in the Application Form: Provide personal details including name, nationality, passport information, and travel dates. The form should be straightforward and easy to complete.
3. Pay the Application Fee: The current fee for the ETA is £16 (around $28 USD). Payments can be made online via the application portal.
4. Wait for Approval: Once submitted, travelers will typically receive their ETA approval within a few minutes to a few hours. The approval will be linked to the passport, and travelers can simply show their passport at the time of travel.
5. Travel with a Valid ETA: Upon approval, the ETA will be valid for multiple trips to the UK within a two-year period or until the traveler’s passport expires. Travelers should ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond their travel dates.
6. Check ETA Status: If you need to check the status of your ETA or make changes, you can do so via the UKVI online account or the official app.

Quick Tips for Qatari Nationals Traveling to the UK:

1. Apply Early: To avoid delays, it is advisable to apply for the ETA at least three working days before your scheduled departure date.
2. Double Check Passport Validity: Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after your intended travel dates. If not, you may need to renew it before applying for the ETA.
3. Keep Documentation Handy: Carry a copy of your ETA approval along with your passport when traveling to the UK, especially during the initial boarding process.
4. Stay Informed: Keep an eye on any updates from the UK government regarding changes to travel requirements, including ETA fee adjustments or changes to validity periods.
5. Plan for Business Travel: Business travelers should account for any extra time needed to obtain the ETA before booking flights or scheduling meetings.

Key Points to Remember:

• Qatari nationals will need to obtain an ETA for travel to the UK starting February 25, 2026.
• The ETA fee is £16, with plans to raise it to £20 in the future.
• ETA allows multiple visits of up to six months during a two-year validity period.
• Travelers should apply for the ETA at least three working days before their travel date to avoid delays.
• Airlines and transport carriers will check for valid ETAs before allowing boarding.

Conclusion: Be Prepared for the ETA Requirement in 2026

As the UK rolls out its Electronic Travel Authorisation system for Qatari nationals, it is essential for travelers to be proactive in securing their ETA well ahead of time. This change will streamline the immigration process, but it requires careful planning and attention to detail. By following the simple application process and allowing enough time for approval, travelers can avoid last-minute disruptions and ensure a smooth journey to the UK.

For business travelers and tourists from Qatar, it’s important to stay informed and ready for the ETA requirement. This digital system marks a step forward in improving UK border security, and with a little preparation, travelers can continue their plans without unnecessary delays or complications.

Disclaimer: The Attached Image in This Article is AI Generated