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UK Visa Application Center in Bahrain, UK Embassy in Bahrain

If you need paid support with the uk visa application process and/or consultation on the documents, you can order such service with our visa agency ., contact us today if you need help with a uk visa application, what is visa application center.

UK Visa Application Center is a collection point for your documents and to take biometrics (e.g. fingerprints). The UK Visa Application Center transfers your documents to the UK Embassy in Bahrain together with your biometric data.

Risk Assessment

To understand your unique situation, we’ll start by studying your case to discover your chances of being accepted for a UK visa

Professional support

Since 2006, we’ve been successfully securing UK visas for people, just like you! While we don’t know much about visas to other countries, we’re experts in everything surrounding UK visas. After all, we deal with dozens of applications every day. So, yes, we know them inside out.

Documents and samples

We give you the list of all documents and samples needed. This way you know just what to expect. We’ll then check to guarantee if the documents meet the official requirements or not.

Online forms

Forget filling in confusing application forms. It contains a minimum of 100-150 questions and you should be very careful answering them. If you choose our agency to help you with the application, our specialists will be happy to fill in the application form for you .

Book an appointment

We will book an appointment at the UK Visa Application Centre for you at convinient date and time. Just head to the appointment, make photo for visa and submit your fingerprints. And, you’re ready to go!

Upload docs to the Embassy

We organize and upload all your supporting documents directly to the British Embassy. So, you need only passport on appointment.

If you dream of securing a UK visa, contact us now ! We specialise in complex cases and refusals. No matter what your situation is, we can help you.

In United States you can get help with your UK visa application in:

• Atlanta (100 Peachtree Street NW, Suite # 225, Atlanta, GA 30303 )
• Boston (160 Federal Street, Suite #1700 , Boston , MA 02110 )
• Chicago (142 East Ontario St, Suite# 1700, Chicago, IL 60611 )
• Houston (1001 Texas Ave Suite 1020, Floor 10 Houston, TX 77002 )
• Los Angeles (8530 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 420, Beverly Hills, CA, 90211, USA )
• Miami (2655 S Le Jeune Road, Penthouse 1A, Coral Gables, FL 33134 )
• New York (128 East 32nd Street, New York NY, 10016 Fl 4 )
• San Francisco (642 Harrison Street, 2nd Floor, San Francisco CA 94107 )
• Seattle (2033 6th Ave, Suite 993, Seattle, WA 98121 )
• Washington (2033 6th Ave, Suite 993, Seattle, WA 98121 )

Our team works exclusively remotely. However, if you would like to get help at an office, feel free to stop by at one of the locations above. Please note: there is no phone you can call for an Application centre to assist you over the phone. You will have to come in person to speak with a staff member.

Anyway, you can always contact our immigration specialists in United States for online help with UK visas

You're not in United States? Select the country where you are now.

We help with all types of UK visas!

• Tourism / family visits
• Students visas
• Business visas
• Join family
• After refusal
• for tourism purposes
• to visit family or friends
• for child accompanied visits
• for study up to 6 months

You can usually stay in the UK for up to 6 months. If you need to visit the UK regularly over a longer period, you can apply for a long-term Standard Visitor visa that lasts 2, 5 or 10 years.

If you are planning to take a short course of study in the UK, such as English language course, training course, part of an overseas course, a short period of research, medical, veterinary or dentistry electives, you should apply for a Short-term study visa . You can study for up to 6 months (or up to 11 months if you are studying an English language course)

If you are planning to take a full-time below degree or a degree level course of study in the UK school, college or university, you should apply for a Student visa (ex. Tier 4 General). There are some specific requirements for your course, money you need, your knowledge of English and documents you will need to apply for visa.

You can apply for a Business Visa if you want to visit the UK for any of the following reason:

• for exhibitions, conferences meetings and any visits where you have an official invitation
• for sport and entertainment events
• for medical treatment
• for an academic research

You can usually stay in the UK for up to 6 months (or up to 12 months if you are applying for an academic visit ). If you need to visit the UK regularly over a longer period, you can apply for a long-term Business visa that lasts 2, 5 or 10 years.

• Fiancee visa (or Settlement Marriage visa) - the applicant to come to the UK for up to 6 months, register a marriage and apply for a Settlement Spouse visa within the UK.
• Spouse visa - If you have already registered your marriage to a UK national you can apply for a Spouse visa, which is issued for 2.5 years and includes the right to work. It can be extended once in the UK and lead to an ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain) and UK citizenship.
• EEA Family Permit / EU Settlement Scheme family permit - if your spouse is living and working in the UK and is an EU national but does not have UK citizenship.
• Unmarried partners visa - if you are not married officially to a UK national but have lived together for two years.
• Same-sex partners visa - If you are same-sex partners, have already registered your marriage to a UK national or for unmarried partners, if you have lived together for two years.
• Dependant child visa (or Settlement Child visa) - if you want to bring your dependant child to the UK.
• General work visa (Tier 2) can be applied for if the applicant has been offered a skilled job in the UK.
• Temporary Worker visa (Tier 5) - includes Charity Worker visa, Creative and Sporting visa, Government Authorised Exchange visa, International Agreement visa, Religious Worker visa, Seasonal Worker visa, Youth Mobility Scheme visa.
• Permitted Paid Engagement visa - if you are invited to the UK as an expert in your profession for up to 1 month.

If you have been refused a visa, don’t worry! It is possible to get Visa after refusal. Our agency will help you to understand the reasons for the refusal and helps to prepare convincing grounds for appeal.

Added Value Services with UK Visa Application Center in Bahrain

You can book and pay some Added Value Services if needed:

Phone support.

Our commercial agency specialises in paid UK visa consulting services .

You shouldn't call us if you:

• would like to know opening hours or address of TLSContact or VFSGlobal application centre in your home country, make online enquiry instead.
• want to track your UK visa application or passport status
• need help after you have submitted your application/documents
• want to renew your passport

If you need help with getting UK visa , please describe in brief your situation and a purpose of your visit, in order we could provide you with a phone number of the relevant department.

• Skilled Worker Visa (Formally Tier T2 general)
• Tier 2 Work Visa Extension
• Tier 2 minister of religion Visa
• Tier 2 Sportsperson
• Tier 5 Temporary work visa
• Tier 5 Youth mobility visas
• Partner and Spouse Visas
• Spouse Visa Application
• Spouse Visa Extension
• Spouse Visa Requirements
• Fiance Visa Application
• Unmarried Partner visa
• Civil Partner Visa
• Study Visas
• Student visa
• Child student visa
• Short term study
• Post study work
• Settlement and UK Citizenship
• Indefinite leave to remain (ILR)
• British Naturalisation
• British Citizenship
• British Citizenship by marriage
• British Citizenship by birth
• Business Services (for hiring foreign nationals)
• Sponsor Licence Application
• Sponsor licence renewal
• Short Visit Visas
• Tourist Visa
• Family visit visa
• Business Visa
• UK Visit Visa
• Other Visas
• Innovator Application
• Tier 1 investor Visa Application

• View More...

• Bahrain Visa
• E-tourist Visa
• E-business Visa
• E-investment Visa

Everything You Need To Know About Bahrain Visa

Earlier, citizens of Qatar too had visa exemption status, but now, they are not permitted to enter Bahrain without a visa.

When it comes to citizens of the United Kingdom, transit visas are not required to enter Bahrain, while traveling to a different destination. If British nationals wish to enter Bahrain for tourist, business, work and investment activities, they should obtain a visa prior to the arrival.

UK nationals are eligible to obtain a visa on arrival. However, travel experts suggest that it is always good to obtain a visa before boarding the flight, as authorities in Bahrain may phase out this privilege without any prior notice. If you are planning to opt for visa on arrival, you should enquire with your airline whether boarding is allowed without a visa, as these things are subject to change.

Depending on the purpose and nature of the foreign national’s visit, authorities of Bahrain have classified their visa into several types, and some of the most noted ones are mentioned below.

Bahrain tourist e-visa

As the name indicates, these visas are exclusively meant for tourism activities like sightseeing, and foreign nationals can obtain these visas via online. All the steps in this visa application procedure can be completed online, and there is no need to physically make your presence at the Bahrain embassy. 

Please find below the necessary documents required to obtain a Bahrain tourist e-visa.

• The UK national should submit the scanned copy of his or her passport. Please note that this copy of the passport is duly signed, and it has a minimum validity of six months.
• The applicant should submit copy of round-trip tickets.

Apart from the above-mentioned documents, it is always wise to submit the documents mentioned below.

• The applicant can submit his or her bank statements issued in the past three months.

Note: The validity of a multiple entry Bahrain tourist e-visa is one month and one year. If you are opting for a multiple entry visa with a validity of one month, you can stay inside Bahrain for a maximum period of 30 days. If you have chosen a multiple entry Bahrain tourist e-visa with a validity of one year, it is possible to stay inside the country for 90 days. The validity of a single-entry visa is 14 days. Please note that Bahrain visas will be valid from the date of issue.

Bahrain business e-visa

Business e-visas allow citizens of the United Kingdom to obtain electronic travel authorization without visiting the embassy of Bahrain. 

In order to get these visas, foreign nationals should submit the documents mentioned below.

• The applicant should submit a clear, signed scanned copy of his or her passport. Please note that the passport has sufficient validity, and in the information page, all details of the applicant should be very clear and visible.
• The traveler should submit proof of onward and return flight tickets.
• The applicant can also submit recently issued three months’ bank statement.

Bahrain offers both single entry and multiple entry business visas to foreign nationals. Single entry business visas are valid for just 14 days. Multiple entry business visas have a validity of one month and one year. If you have opted for a one-month valid multiple entry visa, you can stay inside Bahrain for 30 days. One-year valid Bahrain visa allows foreign nationals to stay inside the country for a maximum period of 90 days.

Bahrain tourist visa

As the name clearly points out, these visas are issued to foreign nationals who are planning to enter Bahrain for tourist related activities. 

In order to get these visas, foreign nationals are supposed to submit the documents mentioned below.

• The original signed copy of the passport should be submitted. Please note that the passport of the applicant should have a validity of six months, and it should also have two blank pages for stamping procedure.
• One recent passport-sized photograph of the applicant should be submitted. Please note that this photograph is taken within the last three months in a white background. It should be also noted that the traveler has maintained a neutral facial expression in this photograph.
• The applicant is supposed to submit last three month’s bank statement. The bank statement is being submitted to prove that the traveler has sufficient financial health to support himself or herself during the trip to Bahrain.
• If the foreign national is intending to visit Bahrain for visiting friends or family members, he or she should submit a personal invitation letter issued by the host in Bahrain. Please note that this personal invitation letter carries all the information about the host and visitor. The letter should be also signed and dated, and it should detail the nature and purpose of the visit.
• It is necessary to submit the proof of the host’s status in Bahrain. In order to prove this, copy of the Bahrain national’s passport information page can be submitted. If the host is not a Bahrain national, copies of their Bahrain residence permit along with passport copies can be submitted.
• The applicant should also submit a personal letter addressed to the Embassy of Bahrain. This personal letter should explain the purpose of the trip, and should detail everything about the dates of travel, intended places to visit, and accommodation details. Please note that this letter should be original, and it should bear the signature of the applicant.
• If the applicant is staying in a hotel, it is necessary to submit the proof of hotel room booking reservation.
• The Bahrain tourist visa application form should be completed without any errors or mistakes.

Note: Unfortunately, Visa Genie is not capable of assisting you in getting Bahrain regular tourist visa. If you want to get this visa, you should contact the Bahrain embassy directly.

Bahrain business visa

Unlike Bahrain business e-visa, to get a regular business visa, foreign nationals should contact Bahrain embassy directly. 

Even though Visa Genie is not capable of assisting you in getting a Bahrain regular business visa, you can scroll down and see the documents that are required to get these visas.

• The passport of the foreign national should be submitted. This original signed passport should have a validity of six months along with two blank pages for markings. If your passport has a validity of less than six months, do renew it before sending the application.
• A passport-sized photograph taken within the last three months, in a light-colored background should be submitted. Please note that this passport sized photograph is providing the full frontal view of the applicant’s head with the face centered in the middle.
• In order to prove the financial stability, the foreign national should submit bank statements issued in the last three months.
• The foreign national should submit proof of hotel room booking reservation.
• The foreign national is supposed to submit an employment letter from his or her company in the United Kingdom. This letter should assure that the traveler will return to work after completing the Bahrain trip.
• It is also necessary to submit the copy of a business invitation letter from the company in Bahrain. Please note that this business invitation letter should be written in the company’s letterhead, and it should bear the signature of an official.

Note: In usual cases, Bahrain authorities used to issue a business visa within five days after sending the application.

Bahrain investment e-visa

Bahrain introduced investment e-visas to turn the country into an investment destination, and these visas are usually obtained by high profile business personals. 

• Scanned copy of the applicant’s passport should be submitted.
• The applicant should submit confirmed round trip tickets.
• It is necessary to submit confirmed hotel room booking reservation details. Please note that this reservation details should contain the name of the applicant, dates of stay, and address of the hotel.
• The applicant should pre-approval for CR from Ministry of industry, commerce and tourism that grants investment e-visa to the foreign national.
• A pre-approval for CR from Ministry of industry, commerce and tourism should be submitted.

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News centre

Apply early for your new zealand visitor visa.

Immigration New Zealand (INZ) is expecting to receive over 260,000 visitor visa applications over the summer peak processing period and is encouraging prospective travellers to submit their visitor visa applications as soon as possible.

INZ’s Director Visa, Jock Gilray says that given the high volumes of visitor visa applications expected applying early is essential to ensure people travelling to New Zealand have the peace of mind of knowing their visa is sorted before they make their travel arrangements.

“New Zealanders are looking forward to welcoming friends, family and tourists from all over the world this summer.

That’s why we are asking that anyone who plans to travel to New Zealand for Christmas to submit their application no later than 15 October 2024. Anyone travelling in the New Year, including Chinese Lunar New Year, should submit their application no later than 15 November 2024.”

Applications submitted after these dates may not be processed in time for their intended travel dates.

In addition to submitting applications well in advance, INZ strongly encourages travellers to provide complete applications with all necessary documentation as this helps the speed of application processing.

Jock Gilray adds, "Applications that are missing supporting documents or English translations are more likely to be declined. Making a complete visitor visa application early means you will receive your visa decision sooner, enabling you to spend more time planning your trip to New Zealand.’

Here are some tips to help INZ process your visitor visa more quickly:

• Valid Passport: Make sure your passport is valid for at least 3 months beyond your departure from New Zealand. This also applies to the passports of any accompanying travellers.
• Clear Passport Scan: Include a clear, scanned copy of the photo page in your passport in your visa application.
• Acceptable Photo: Provide a photo that meets the specific requirements to avoid processing delays.
• Accurate Details: Double-check your personal information, such as name, passport number, and date of birth, to ensure it matches your passport and prevents issues with boarding your flight.
• Genuine Intentions: Submit documentation that demonstrates your intention to visit New Zealand temporarily and return home afterward.
• English Documentation: Provide supporting documents in English or provide an English translation for non-English documents.

More information is available in our news centre.

Notes to editor

The Government decided that increases to visa charges, made up of fees and levies, are being introduced on 1 October 2024.

Passport holders of some countries and territories do not have to apply for a visa before they travel to New Zealand but must hold an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority).

Visa waiver countries and territories

In the 2023 calendar year:

• more than one million visas were decided.
• there was strong demand from people wanting to visit New Zealand, with and more than 505,000 Visitor Visa applications decided.
• more than 1.5 million NZeTA requests were decided.

Media contact: [email protected]

• Immigration rules and processes

Related stories

Immigration New Zealand (INZ) is expecting to receive over 260,000 visitor visa applications over the summer peak processing period. We encourage prospective travellers to submit their applications as soon as possible.

Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)

Key information about the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV).

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UK Visa Requirements & Eligibility

From scenic landscapes and to the rich history and heritage, the United Kingdom paints a vibrant portrait of its allure. Iconic landmarks and charming countryside make this a preferred destination among travellers.

Indians need a valid UK visa to visit the country. The type of visa required depends on the purpose and duration of the visit. For tourism, business, or visiting family and friends, Indians usually apply for a UK Visitor Visa. A UK Work Visa is needed if you will be employed in the UK, and a UK Student Visa is needed if you will be studying in the UK. It's always best to check the latest visa requirements and application processes through official UK government channels or consult with a visa advisor.

Indians will be allowed to stay and work in the UK for a maximum of 24 months. If your visa is valid, you are free to enter the UK whenever you choose and to depart and return whenever you please. As a Standard Visitor, you can travel to the UK for up to six months of approved business or tourism activities.

Types of UK Visa

There are different categories of UK visas that allow for multiple entries for periods of six months each; short-term visas, valid for six months and long-term visas, valid for two, five, and ten years.

• UK Visitor Visa 
• UK Business Visa

Additional Information -

Priority /Super priority options as per availability at the time of taking appointment with the additional charges by embassy.

The UK embassy will create the updated checklist when payment confirmation is received in order to schedule the submission appointment.

Visa-on-arrival in the UK

Visa-on-arrival is not permitted for Indian citizens travelling to the UK. Indian citizens typically need to obtain a visa before travelling to the UK, whether for tourism, business, study, or other purposes. This involves applying for a visa through the UK Visa Application Centre in India or online, depending on the type of visa needed. It's essential to check the most up-to-date visa requirements and application procedures through official UK government sources or consult with a visa advisor. Regulations may change, so it's always wise to verify the current requirements before planning any travel.

How to Apply for UK Visa online through Air India?

• Click here to visit the AirIndia OneVasco website.
• Add and review the applicants’ details before proceeding to checkout.
• Once the payment is successful, you will receive a confirmation of your visa application. The OneVasco visa concierge team will get in touch to assist you further and ensure a smooth process.
• Once the required documents are submitted and verified by our visa experts’ team, your UK Visa application will be submitted for approval.
• Once your visa application is approved, a sticker visa will be affixed to one of the pages of your passport.

UK Visa Processing time:

The UK visa processing time will be calculated once all documents have been submitted in accordance with the embassy requirements.

How to track the UK Visa application?

You can track the status of your application on the  link

What are the UK Visa fees and charges?

Please refer to the below table for UK visa fees:

Frequently asked Questions

Hide  view  do i need a visa to enter the uk.

Yes, a valid UK visa for Indians is needed to enter the country. You can apply for a UK Tourist Visa, UK Work Visa, UK Student Visa, etc, based on the purpose of your visit. Before applying for visa, it is recommended to check the latest requirements and guidelines through official UK government channels or consult with a visa advisor.

Hide  View  How do I apply for a UK visa?

• Click here to visit the AirIndia OneVasco website. 
• Add and review the applicants’ details before proceeding to checkout. 
• Once the payment of the UK Visa fees is successful, you will receive a confirmation of your visa application. The OneVasco visa concierge team will remain in constant touch to ensure a convenient experience.
• Once the required documents are submitted and verified by the visa experts’ team, your UK Visa application will be submitted for approval. 
• Once approved, the UK Visa will be a sticker visa will be affixed to one of the pages of your passport. 

Hide  View  Can I get a visa-on-arrival in the UK, or do I need to apply in advance?

No, you must apply well in advance, considering the UK visa processing time may vary depending on the type of visa applied. There is no visa-on-arrival facility for Indian citizens travelling to the UK. This means that Indian citizens need to obtain a visa before travelling to the UK, regardless of the purpose of their visit.

This involves applying for a visa through the UK Visa Application Centre in India or online, depending on the type of visa needed. 

Hide  View  How long can I stay in the UK?

UK Business Visa : If you are visiting the UK for business purposes, you can apply for a UK Visitor Business Visa. With this visa, you can usually stay in the UK for up to 6 months for business-related activities such as attending meetings, conferences, or negotiating contracts.

UK Tourist Visa : If you're travelling to the UK for tourism, visiting family and friends, or for business purposes, you can typically stay for up to 6 months on a Standard Tourist Visitor Visa. This visa can be used for multiple visits within its validity period, but each visit must not exceed 6 months.

Hide  View  What is the validity period of my UK visa?

Since there are multiple categories of UK visa, the validity period will be considered as per the travel period and type of category you have applied for at the time of application.

Hide  View  Do Schengen visa holders require a visa for the United Kingdom?

Yes. Schengen visa holders require separate visas for the United Kingdom. Indian nationals need to apply a visa to enter the UK, regardless of whether they hold a Schengen visa or not. The type of visa required depends on the purpose of the visit, such as tourism, business, study, or work. Indian citizens typically need to apply for a visa in advance through the UK Visa Application Centre in India or online.

Hide  View  I haven’t booked my flight tickets. Can I apply for a UK visa?

Yes, you can apply for a UK Business visa even if you haven't booked your flight tickets. However, for a UK Tourist visa, flight tickets are mandatory to present at the time of submission.

When you apply for a UK visa, you need to provide details about your intended travel dates, including your planned arrival and departure dates.

However, you should have a clear travel itinerary and plans in place before applying for your visa. This includes knowing the dates you intend to travel, where you plan to stay, and the purpose of your visit. Providing this information accurately in your visa application will help the authorities assess your application effectively.

Remember to check the specific requirements and guidelines for the type of visa you're applying for, as different visas may have different documentation requirements and criteria for approval.

Hide  View  Do I need to upload photographs in a specific format?

Yes, when applying for a UK visa, there are specific criteria for the type of photo you must upload. It's essential to adhere to these guidelines to ensure that your visa application is processed smoothly.

Hide  View  Is there any specific format in which documents need to be uploaded?

Yes, documents can be uploaded in either PDF or JPG format. Ensure that your documents are saved in one of these formats when submitting them for your UK visa application.

Hide  View  How long does it take to get a UK visa?

The processing time for UK visa can range from a few weeks to several months, so it's essential to apply well in advance of your planned travel date. Additionally, factors such as the completeness of your application, the accuracy of your information, and any additional processing requirements can affect the processing time.

Hide  View  How will I get my UK Visa?

Your UK Application form needs to be filled online and given for submission at the visa application centre with the required documents. Once your visa application is approved, a sticker visa will be affixed to one of the pages of your passport.

If you have any queries regarding your UK visa application, you may reach out to the OneVasco team. 

Hide  View  Does every Indian National travelling to the UK need a visa?

Yes, Indians need a visa to visit the UK. The type of visa required depends on the purpose and duration of the visit. For tourism, business trips, or visiting family and friends, Indians usually apply for a UK Visitor Visa. For other purposes like work or study, different visa categories apply. It's always best to check the latest visa requirements and application processes through official UK government channels or consult with a visa advisor.

Hide  View  Can I cancel my UK Visa?

No. Once a UK visa application has been submitted, it cannot be cancelled. However, if you no longer wish to proceed with your travel plans or if there has been a change in circumstances, you can inform the UK Visa Application Centre (VAC) or the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) about your decision.

If you have submitted your visa application through a Visa Application Centre (VAC), you can contact them directly to inform them of your decision to withdraw your application. They will advise you on the next steps and may provide you with a form or process to formally withdraw your application.

If you have applied for your visa online or through another channel directly with UKVI, you can contact them to inform them of your decision. You may need to provide details such as your application reference number and personal information to identify your application.

Hide  View  Will I get a refund if I cancel my UK visa?

No. UK visa fees are non-refundable, so even if you choose not to use the visa, you may not be eligible for a refund. 

Hide  View  Will I get a refund in case my UK Visa application is rejected?

Refunds are not available for visa rejections. UK Visa fees are non-refundable, regardless of the outcome of the application. When applying for a UK Visa, it is necessary to ensure all guidelines are followed to minimise the risk of rejection.

Hide  View  How soon can I reapply if my UK visa is rejected?

There is no timeframe that you must wait to reapply in case your UK Visa application is denied. However, one must understand the reason for rejection and address the issues before submitting a fresh application.

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• Visa and Immigration in UAE

UAE: Typing centres urge visa amnesty seekers to bring all necessary documents

Some centres also reduced fees to attract and facilitate more applicants.

Waheed Abbas

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UAE announces 2-month grace period for residence visa violators

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Published: Tue 3 Sep 2024, 6:00 AM

Last updated: Tue 3 Sep 2024, 10:16 PM

Typing centre agents in the UAE are urging amnesty seekers to ensure they have all the necessary documents as many applicants are coming with incomplete papers to process their applications.

Some typing centres located in the vicinity of the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship in the Al Rahmaniya region are seeing a massive rush of people who want to benefit from the amnesty scheme which was launched in the UAE on September 1, 2024.

“Yes, a lot of amnesty applicants are coming for outpass and to legalise their status. But many people are coming with incomplete documents. Those who want to regularise their status and stay in the country need to bring visas from the company which are offering them jobs,” said a typist located in the Tawi Saji’ah area, on the opposite side of the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship in Al Rahmaniya.

Some typing centres reduced fees to attract and facilitate more applicants.

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Applicants seeking just an outpass are required to bring a passport, photo and a copy of their expired visa.

However, the amnesty seekers who have been offered a job by a company, but have been declared absconders and their visas were not cancelled — they first have to cancel their visa and take a new offer and approval from the labour. They can apply for an outpass and then make the status change without exiting the country. They can then proceed to apply for a new employment visa.

The UAE launched an amnesty scheme on September 1, 2024, for two months, allowing illegal expats in the country an opportunity to legalise their status, which adds a lot of benefits for them including creating new opportunities in terms of job growth among others.

Dozens of amnesty seekers from South Asia, Southeast Asia, African and Middle Eastern countries had queued up outside typing centres to regularise their status. Some had come up to get an outpass for themselves and some were offered jobs by companies and wanted to legalise their status and continue to live and work in the UAE.

Many people who went directly to the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship were guided to visit the typing centre for documentation first and then proceed to the authority to complete the process.

A few typing centre personnel were also assisting amnesty seekers by transporting them in their cars to the typing centres due to the long distance so that they don’t have to cross the highway dissecting the Al Rahmnia and Tawi Saji’ah area.

“Since it is a bit far, we are transporting them to the other side of the road. This is a win-win for both of us. This gives us business and they don’t have to walk for such a long distance,” he said.

Typing centres located on the old immigration road in Sharjah said they were getting a lot of inquiries from amnesty seekers for outpasses and those who want to regularise their status.

• UAE firms can process labour cards for amnesty seekers without fines, confirms top official
• UAE: Pakistanis urged to take advantage of visa amnesty; missions to remain open on Saturdays
• Dubai: Over 1,000 overstayers availed visa amnesty on the first day, says top official
• UAE: Amnesty seeker who 'lost Dh14,000 in visa scams' urges illegals to apply only at official centres
• Double the salary, family reunions: How UAE visa amnesty is giving illegal residents fresh hope
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Sri Lanka Announces Free Visas for Travelers From These 35 Countries

Between Sri Lanka’s eight UNESCO world heritage sites , its thriving wildlife, and pristine white sand beaches, the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean” has enough glimmer for everyone—and now, visiting the South Asia island nation, located off the coast of India, is about to get easier (and cheaper) for travelers from 35 countries.

On August 22, 2024, Sri Lanka Transport Minister Bandula Gunawardana announced a new six-month pilot program launching October 1 of this year, which will give eligible visitors free 30-day tourist visas. This will temporarily eliminate the $50 visa fee tourists are typically required to pay until April 2025. Tourists from the approved countries, including the US and the UK, will be issued free tourist visas upon arrival, Reuters reports .

The program coincides with Sri Lanka's peak travel season (which generally has the best weather), lasting from December to mid-April.

“The aim of the government is to transform Sri Lanka into a free visa country, much like Singapore , Thailand , and Vietnam to tap into the benefits of a rapidly growing tourism industry,” Gunawardana said after announcing the program at an August cabinet briefing. Here's everything travelers need to know about the new Sri Lanka visa program, according to tourism and immigration experts.

Why is Sri Lanka loosening travel requirements?

International travel to Sri Lanka has boomed in recent years, with nearly 1.2 million visitors from the beginning of this year to July alone (compared to just under 720,000 yearly visitors in all of 2022). Data from the Central Bank of Sri Lanka reports that tourism from the first half of 2024 generated over $1.5 billion in revenue for the country, around $625 million more than what the industry generated over the same period last year.

The bulk of this year’s visitors have come from India, with over 300,000 travelers, followed by Russia and the UK’s nearly 250,000 combined travelers (the second and third largest sources of arrivals this year, respectively), per data from the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority . All three nations are included in the free visa program.

The country piloted a similar six-month program in 2019 when it released free tourist visas in August of that year for US travelers, as an incentive to rebuild its travel economy following the April 2019 terrorist attacks in Colombo. The move to expand Sri Lanka’s embrace of travelers this year could play a similarly vital role in pushing past the economic and political hurdles that have persisted in the country since the pandemic and the 2022 financial crisis.

The new visa program is just one initiative Sri Lanka is taking to bolster its tourism industry, like the recent opening of the Pekoe Trail and the establishment of new boutique stays like Kayaam House and wellness hotel Taprana . Sri Lanka’s previously under-the-radar south coast has recently bloomed into a hub for luxury resorts, surf clubs, and scene-y cocktail bars attracting adventure-seekers and lifestyle travelers alike.

“Anything that makes travel cheaper and easier has a positive impact, especially as it shows visitors are welcome,” says Michael Pullman , a travel advisor at Wild Frontiers Travel . “Travelers are rediscovering [Sri Lanka as] a country that offers one of the best vacation experiences in Asia— the rock fortress of Sigiriya offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside; for world-class beaches, head to Bentota on the west coast or Tangalle beah on the southern coast; and wildlife lovers can seek leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and more in Yala National Park.”

Countries around the world are loosening travel restrictions to take advantage of the post-pandemic tourism boom: Japan , Italy , Turkey , and Thailand have launched new visa programs for digital nomads; Kenya has dropped of all visa requirements for visitors regardless of nationality; China has reduced visa requirements for US visitors; and six Gulf countries are pursuing a multi-national visa agreement.

“This initiative could give Sri Lanka an edge over its neighbors in an incredibly competitive market,” Armand Arton, Chairman of the Global Citizen Forum and CEO of Arton Capital, a financial advisory firm that facilitates secondary residence and citizenship programs, tells Traveler . “Sri Lanka may be able to become one of the most popular tourist hubs in Asia and reap the benefits that will follow.”

Which 35 countries are approved for free visas?

Travelers from the following countries will be approved for free 30-day tourist visas to Sri Lanka starting on October 1, 2024 until April 2025:

• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Saudi Arabia
• South Korea
• Switzerland
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States

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Bahrain and Saudi Arabia get UK electronic visa waiver status

Bahrain and Saudi Arabia to join other Gulf Cooperation Council countries with electronic visa waiver status for UK travel.

From 1 June 2022, nationals of Saudi Arabia and Bahrain can apply to travel to the UK (for tourism, business, study or medical treatment) for up to 6 months with an electronic visa waiver.

The move will deepen the UK’s partnership with Saudi Arabia and Bahrain and enhance diplomatic ties and economic prosperity.

Saudi Arabia and Bahrain will join other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states with electronic visa waiver status, the Home Office has announced. The move will maintain security and effective border processes ensuring necessary security checks are carried out ahead of travel whilst enabling smooth transit through the UK border for visitors.

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 quicker than applying for a visa as there is no need to provide biometric information (photo and fingerprints), attend a visa application centre or hand in your passport in advance of travel.

Home Secretary Priti Patel said:

This visa waiver for Bahrain and Saudi Arabia will better connect the people of our countries and boost economic prosperity. 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 for leisure and business.

Foreign Secretary Liz Truss said:

This visa waiver will strengthen our relationships with Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, making it easier for visitors from the Gulf to come to the UK. Our friendships with both countries are of great importance, built on shared priorities such as trade, investment and security.

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Sri Lanka Rolls Out Free 30-Day Tourist Visas for 35 Nations: Did Your Country Make the List?

Peden Doma Bhutia , Skift

August 26th, 2024 at 5:59 AM EDT

Thailand, Malaysia, China – and now Sri Lanka – are catching on: relaxing travel rules boosts tourism. With Sri Lanka eyeing a jump from 1.49 million visitors last year to 2.5 million this year, easing entry is their big play.

Peden Doma Bhutia

Sri Lanka is set to launch a six-month pilot program on October 1, offering free 30-day tourist visas on arrival to citizens from 35 countries, including the U.S., UK, Russia, India and China. The initiative, which temporarily waives the typical $50 visa fee, aligns with the island nation’s peak travel season, lasting from December to mid-April. This move is part of a broader strategy to revitalize tourism, a sector crucial to Sri Lanka’s economy.

Sri Lanka aims to welcome 2.5 million tourists and attract revenue worth $4 billion by the end of this year. Tourism arrivals peaked in 2018 in Sri Lanka, when 2.5 million tourists spent $4.4 billion in the country.

Last year in December the country finally announced its plans to roll out its global tourism marketing campaign urging tourists “You’ll Come Back For More,” marking the first such campaign since 2007.  

The free visa announcement comes amid ongoing concerns over a visa scam that has sparked significant controversy. In April, the Immigration Department, replaced the state-run telecommunications company Mobitel, which managed the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system, with a consortium of foreign companies. The companies included Singapore-registered GBS Technology Services, the UAE-registered IVS Global-FZCO, and the Dubai-headquartered VFS VF Worldwide Holdings.

Following a public outcry and multiple legal challenges, Sri Lanka’s highest court ordered a return to the local provider.

Tourism Resurgence

Tourism, a vital revenue stream for Sri Lanka, has seen a resurgence in 2024. Between January 1 and August 19, the country welcomed over 1.3 million tourists, with India, the UK and Russia being the top source markets.

Earnings from tourism in the first half of 2024 soared to over $1.5 billion, a 78% increase year-on-year, highlighting the sector’s rapid recovery. This is particularly significant given the political and economic turmoil that had previously deterred visitors.

Europe continues to be a major influence, accounting for nearly half of all arrivals, while Asia and the Pacific regions have also emerged as key contributors. The increase in visitors from these regions underscores shifting dynamics in Sri Lanka’s tourism landscape.

In 2023, Sri Lanka saw a significant rebound in tourism, welcoming 1.49 million visitors – more than double the 2022 figures, according to the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority.

Industry Reaction

The travel industry welcomed the visa-free initiative. Sam Clark, CEO of Experience Travel Group, described it as a “game-changing blueprint” for the country’s tourism future. “It’s a huge opportunity for British ministers to negotiate a permanent visa-free arrangement,” Clark said.

From 2018, the British government had warned tourists from visiting the Asian country saying “food, medicine and medical services” may be limited by political unrest. This has had an impact on tourism to Sri Lanka, with bookings still well below 2018 figures.

Krishna Rathi, senior country director at Agoda, noted that easing travel restrictions typically leads to increased interest in a destination, as seen in other countries that have introduced similar measures.

“We saw an increase in Agoda’s search data when Thailand and Malaysia introduced visa waivers for Indian tourists, and the same effect occurred more recently when India removed tourist visa fees for Thai travellers. We’ll be sure to keep a close watch on how this impacts visitors to Sri Lanka,” Rathi said.

Sri Lanka Monthly Tourism Arrivals

Source: Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority

The Russia Angle

The visa-free program, while temporary, could serve as a catalyst for further growth, particularly from markets like Russia, where arrivals have been bolstered by direct flights.

However, the momentum has shown signs of slowing since May 2024, prompting calls for targeted measures to sustain and grow this important market. Industry experts suggest that reducing the financial burden on travelers could be key to attracting more Russian tourists. Proposed measures include exempting embarkation fees and landing and parking costs for flights, particularly at Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport, which has been effective in the past.

Additionally, allowing transactions in native currencies could further ease the travel process and enhance Sri Lanka’s appeal to Russian visitors.

The List of Countries

Travelers from the following countries will be approved for free 30-day tourist visas to Sri Lanka starting on October 1, 2024, until April 2025:

• United Kingdom
• United States
• Saudi Arabia
• South Korea
• Netherlands
• United Arab Emirates
• Switzerland
• New Zealand
• Czech Republic

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Tags: asia monthly , india outbound , sri lanka , uk , visa , visas

Photo credit: Nuwara Eliya in Sri Lanka. Anton Lecock / Unsplash

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