Starting next month, Bahrainis travelling to the UK will be able to fly without a visa for up to six months, after obtaining an electronic visa waiver.
On June 1, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain will join other GCC states with electronic visa waiver status, the UK Home Office has announced.
An electronic visa waiver allows the holder to travel to the UK without obtaining a visa provided they complete an online waiver for each visit.
A small fee will be applied, and it is faster than applying for a visa as there is no need to provide biometric information (photo and fingerprints), attend a visa application centre or submit their passport ahead of travel.
“This visa waiver for Bahrain and Saudi Arabia will better connect the people of our countries and boost economic prosperity,” Home Secretary Priti Patel said in a statement.
“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.
“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 (UK) for leisure and business.”
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