UK Implements New Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) Criteria, Reintroduces Visa Requirement for Jordanians

The UK government has introduced new changes to the criteria for obtaining an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), which allows certain nationalities to travel to the UK without a visa. Announced in a memorandum on Tuesday, the changes include stricter suitability requirements for applicants and the reintroduction of visa requirements for Jordanians.

Under the updated guidelines, two new criteria have been added to the eligibility conditions for ETA applicants. The first criterion stipulates that individuals who have previously been refused a visit visa or entry to the UK as a visitor will now be automatically denied an ETA. However, those who were granted a visit visa after the refusal, or who held valid permission that was not canceled as a result of the refusal, are exempt from this rule.

Applicants whose ETA applications are denied will instead need to apply for a standard visit visa to enter the UK.

The second new criterion enables ETA refusal if an applicant’s previous ETA was canceled for reasons unrelated to suitability. The government clarified that without the power to refuse an ETA in these cases, individuals could face denial at the UK border, have their ETA revoked, and be required to reapply before being allowed re-entry.

These changes aim to streamline the process by directing ineligible applicants towards the proper visa application process and ensuring they meet the entry requirements in advance.

Impact on Jordanian Nationals

In a related move, the UK government has also scrapped the ETA option for Jordanian nationals, reintroducing the need for a visit visa. This decision follows a rise in cases of Jordanians traveling to the UK for purposes not permitted under the visit or ETA provisions, such as to live, work, or seek asylum.

A 28-day transition period has been granted, starting from September 10, for Jordanians holding valid ETAs and confirmed travel bookings prior to the policy change. These travelers will not need a visa if they meet the conditions during the transition period. However, after the period ends, all Jordanian nationals traveling to the UK will be required to obtain a visa.

ETA Overview

The Electronic Travel Authorisation system allows nationals from certain countries, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, to travel to the UK without a visa for stays of up to six months for tourism, family visits, business, or short-term study. It also permits travel for up to three months under the Creative Worker visa concession, for permitted paid engagements, or for transit through the UK without border control.