United Kingdom Tourist Visa
Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) · For Qatar citizens
Planning a trip to the UK as a Qatari citizen? Great news: you do not need a traditional visa. This guide covers the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) requirement: quick online application, £10 fee, and approval typically within 72 hours. The ETA allows multiple visits of up to 6 months each.
UK Tourist Visa for Qatari Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Qatar citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
A valid Qatari passport to link your ETA
A digital photo of yourself for the application
Email address to receive your ETA confirmation
Credit or debit card to pay the £10 ETA fee
Answer security and background questions in the application
Application Process
The UK ETA is a quick digital authorization, not a traditional visa.1 Apply via the official app or website.
1. Download the UK ETA App
Get the official “UK ETA” app from the App Store or Google Play.1 Alternatively, apply at gov.uk.
2. Create Your Application
Enter your personal details and passport information.1 The app can scan your passport automatically.
3. Take Your Photo
Use the in-app camera to take a photo of your face.1 Follow the on-screen guidelines for lighting and positioning.
4. Answer Security Questions
Complete the security and background questions honestly.1 This includes questions about criminal history and immigration record.
5. Pay and Submit
Pay the £10 fee using card or digital wallet.1 Submit your application and wait for confirmation.
6. Receive Confirmation
Most applications are approved within minutes.1 You will receive email confirmation. The ETA is linked to your passport electronically.
Fees
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| UK ETA | £10 | Valid for 2 years or passport expiry |
| Processing | Free | Included in fee |
| Multiple Entries | Included | No additional charge per visit |
The ETA fee is non-refundable, including if your application is refused.
What You Need to Prove
The ETA application requires basic eligibility confirmation:1
- Valid Qatari passport linked to the ETA
- No serious criminal history or immigration violations
- Genuine visitor intent for tourism, business, or family visits
- No intention to work or live in the UK
Processing Times
The UK ETA is designed for fast processing.1
| Scenario | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Standard Application | Within minutes |
| Maximum Processing | Up to 72 hours |
| Complex Cases | May take longer |
Apply at least 3 days before travel. If your ETA requires additional review, you will be notified.
After Your ETA is Approved
Once approved:
- Save your confirmation email for reference
- No printing required as the ETA is electronic
- Book your travel to the UK
At UK immigration, present your Qatari passport. Border officials will verify your ETA electronically. Be prepared to answer questions about your visit.
If Your ETA is Refused
If refused, you have options:
- Check the refusal reason in your notification
- Apply for Standard Visitor Visa at VFS Global in Doha2
- Address specific concerns raised in the refusal
The Standard Visitor Visa costs £127 and requires more documentation, but allows a full application review.3
ETA vs Standard Visitor Visa
| Feature | ETA | Standard Visitor Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Fee | £10 | £127 |
| Processing | Minutes to 72 hours | 3 weeks |
| Validity | 2 years | 6 months to 10 years |
| Application | Online only | Online + biometrics |
| Stay per visit | Up to 6 months | Up to 6 months |
Most Qatari citizens should use the ETA. The Standard Visitor Visa is only needed if your ETA is refused or you need longer validity options.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Criminal History
Applicants with certain criminal convictions may be refused an ETA.
How to avoid: Be completely honest about criminal history. Minor offenses may not disqualify you, but lying will.
Previous Immigration Violations
History of overstaying or violating immigration rules in the UK or other countries.
How to avoid: Disclose any previous issues and explain the circumstances. Previous violations do not automatically disqualify you.
Incomplete Application
Application not fully completed or photo does not meet requirements.
How to avoid: Use the official UK ETA app and follow all photo guidelines carefully.
Security Concerns
Answers to security questions raise concerns requiring further review.
How to avoid: Answer all questions truthfully. Additional review does not mean automatic refusal.
Invalid Passport
Passport is damaged, expired, or not eligible for ETA scheme.
How to avoid: Ensure your passport is valid and undamaged before applying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Qatari citizens need a visa to visit the UK?
No, Qatari citizens do not need a traditional visa. However, you must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before traveling. The ETA costs £10 and allows multiple entries for up to 2 years.
How long can I stay in the UK with an ETA?
Each visit can be up to 6 months. You can make multiple trips during the 2-year validity of your ETA, but you cannot live in the UK through frequent visits.
How quickly is the UK ETA approved?
Most ETA applications are approved within minutes. The official processing time is up to 72 hours. Apply at least 3 days before travel to be safe.
What is the UK ETA fee for Qatari citizens?
The ETA costs £10 and is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. This covers multiple entries to the UK.
Do I need to print my ETA?
No, the ETA is linked electronically to your passport. Airlines and border officials can verify it digitally. However, keeping the confirmation email is recommended.
Can I work in the UK with an ETA?
No, the ETA is for tourism, visiting family, business meetings, and short courses only. If you need to work, you must apply for an appropriate work visa.
What if my ETA is refused?
If refused, you can apply for a Standard Visitor Visa instead. You will receive an explanation of why the ETA was refused. Address those issues in your visa application.