[Updated] United Kingdom: Visa Waived Travel for Citizens of Bahrain and Saudi Arabia

Last Updated on October 26, 2023

This article was originally published on 12 May 2022 and was updated on 13 October 2022 to reflect new information.  

13 October 2022 Update: The government of the United Kingdom (UK) announced that nationals of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will no longer be required to apply for a transit visa, tourist visa or other visa type for short term travel to the UK.


Key Points 

  • Visa-waived travel option open for citizens of Bahrain and Saudi Arabia beginning 1 June 2022 

Overview 

The government of the United Kingdom (UK) announced that citizens of Bahrain and Saudi Arabia will be able to apply for an electronic visa waiver to travel to the UK for tourism, business and medical treatment beginning 1 June 2022. An electronic visa waiver allows holders to travel to the UK on a temporary basis without obtaining a visa. Applicants must complete an online waiver prior to each visit. 

What are the Changes? 

Beginning 1 June 2022, citizens of Bahrain and Saudi Arabia can apply to travel to the UK with an electronic visa waiver. Several other member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) have been eligible to travel to the UK with electronic visa waiver status. 

Looking Ahead 

Continue to check the government of the UK’s website and Envoy’s website for the latest updates and information. 


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Content in this publication is for informational purposes only and not intended as legal advice, nor should it be relied on as such. For additional information on the issues discussed, consult an attorney at one of the two U.S. Law Firms working with the Envoy Platform or another qualified professional. On non-U.S. immigration issues, consult an Envoy global immigration service provider or another qualified representative.