How to apply for your UK ETA as a Saudi Arabian citizen

As of November 27, 2024, an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is a requirement for Saudi citizens wishing to visit the UK. This guide will take you through the application steps, costs, and necessary documentation for a successful application.

Difficulty rating: 6/100

The difficulty rating is relatively low for Saudi Arabian citizens applying for the United Kingdom ETA, rated at 6 out of 100. The process involves completing a form that takes approximately 19 minutes. The form consists of 14 questions, and applicants are required to provide 2 documents, including your residence address.

Understanding the UK ETA visa

The UK ETA is a digital travel document now required for citizens of Saudi Arabia, as well as those from Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, and the UAE. This has replaced the electronic visa waiver, which was previously required to travel to the UK from Saudi Arabia.

The ETA visa document allows for streamlined travel into the UK, enabling Saudi citizens to apply online and receive their authorization electronically. Valid for up to six months, the UK ETA can be used for short-term visits related to tourism, business, or study. It is linked directly to your passport, reducing potential delays and ensuring that you’re authorized before departure.

Learn more about the UK ETA for Saudi citizens.

What you need for your UK ETA application form

Before you start your UK ETA application, make sure you have the following items ready:

• Valid Saudi passport – ensure your passport is up-to-date, with your passport number and expiry date on hand.

• Passport-sized photograph – this must be a clear headshot on a plain background.

• Travel itinerary – include details of your entry dates in the UK.

• Payment method – for the application fee

• A valid Email address is mandatory

• Answer security-related questions honestly

iVisa Top Tip: Double-check your passport number for accuracy, as errors in this field are one of the most common causes of application delays and rejections.

How to apply for a UK ETA visa from Saudi Arabia

The UK ETA application process is simple and can be done entirely online using our website or mobile app. Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1. Pay the application fee: After filling out your information, you’ll need to submit the application fee through a secure payment gateway.

Step 2. Upload supporting documents: Upload a copy of your passport, ensuring that all details, such as your passport number, are correctly entered. Make sure to double-check this information to avoid delays in processing.

Step 3. Submit the application: Once everything is complete, submit your application for review. Processing times typically range from a few hours to a maximum of three days.

How much is the UK ETA?

The UK ETA for Saudi citizens is priced at approximately GPB £10. If you opt for faster processing times, additional charges may apply. We offer a super-rush option which guarantees processing within 24 hours for those who need a faster service. We recommend beginning your application to see the exact costs applicable to you.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Incorrect passport number: Entering an incorrect passport number is one of the most common mistakes we see, which can lead to delays or rejections.

• Expired passport: Ensure that your passport remains valid throughout your stay in the UK.

• Wrong city of birth: Make sure all personal information, including your city of birth, is entered correctly to avoid complications.

Why choose iVisa for your UK ETA from Saudi Arabia?

Using our platform for your UK ETA application offers multiple advantages, including an almost 100% approval rate and a lower likelihood of rejection compared to government submissions.

• Multi-Language applications: We have a variety of multi-language applications in case English is your second language. The government application both in web and app is only available in English.

• You can take your time: You can pause your application and resume whenever you want without losing your progress. The UK Government times out after 20 min without activity. You'll have to start over if you close your application or exceed the time limit.

• Human customer service: We have human customer service agents available 24/7. Our customer service team is available 24/7 to answer your questions and guide you through the UK ETA process. If you need assistance, feel free to [contact us] via WhatsApp or [iVisa chat].

• Apply for multiple applicants at once: You can apply for the whole family. With iVisa our customers can apply for more than one person in the same process. In the UK Government platform, it has to be done by one applicant at a time (from start to finish, including all payments). This includes individual ETAs for babies and children.

• Easier passport scans: To upload your passport information with iVisa you don’t need a phone with NFC enabled, plus, our expert team reviews your applications to ensure everything is compliant with government standards. At iVisa we have an easier passport scan upload process than the government web and app.

• Fewer steps: Complete your application in fewer steps, with no need for face scanning or a security code.

• Use the payment method that suits you: We have plenty of options: Paypal, Venmo, Google Pay, Apple Pay, and credit/debit card. The government only offers Google Pay, and credit/debit cards. Customers have complained about the payment process in the government’s app reviews.