Last update: 10 May 2025

UK ETA for Omani Citizens

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What is the UK ETA for Omani citizens?

The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a short-stay digital permission for eligible travellers. For citizens of Oman it provides a quick online route to obtain entry clearance for short visits — such as holidays, business, transit or short study — without applying for a full UK visa.

The ETA system is designed to pre-screen travellers before they reach the UK border. Once approved the ETA is electronically linked to the traveller’s passport and speeds up the pre-travel checks, although final entry remains at the discretion of the UK border officer.

The ETA rollout has been phased by nationality. Omani passport holders are among the nationalities covered in the GCC rollout and can apply online. The ETA is intended for temporary visits and does not replace long-term visas.

Who can use the ETA and when to choose a visa instead

The ETA is intended for short, temporary stays. If you plan to work long-term, study for an extended programme, settle or join family permanently in the UK, you will need a conventional visa specific to that purpose.

For short tourist stays, family visits, business meetings, permitted paid engagements, or short course study, the ETA is typically the right and faster option for Omani travellers.

  • Tourism and visiting friends or family.
  • Short business trips, meetings or conferences.
  • Short study courses (typically under 6 months).
  • Creative Worker concessions and some permitted paid engagements (short-term).
  • Airside or landside transit without entering the UK for longer stays.

Visitor data snapshot

UK visitor volumes from GCC countries have grown since international travel recovery began. The ETA aims to make short visits easier and more predictable for travellers from Oman by providing a fast, digital pre-clearance.

Key benefits of the UK ETA for Omani nationals

The ETA simplifies the short-stay travel process. Below are practical benefits for Omanis applying for an ETA.

Apply online in minutes

The application is completed online — no embassy visit required. Upload your passport scan and photo and submit the form from any device.

Faster decisions

Many applicants receive a decision quickly, enabling short-notice travel planning. If further checks are required, the application will be escalated for review.

Flexible for repeat visits

The ETA typically allows multiple entries during its validity period, making it suitable for frequent short trips.

Eligibility overview for Omani applicants

To apply for a UK ETA you must be an Omani national holding a valid passport and meet basic suitability checks. Below are the common eligibility considerations that determine whether an applicant is suitable for an ETA.

1

Omani passport holder

You must hold a valid Omani passport. The ETA is electronically linked to that passport.

2

No recent deportation from the UK

Applicants should not have a history of deportation or recent removal from the UK.

3

Acceptable criminal record

Applicants with serious criminal convictions may be refused. Lesser offences or disclosures should be declared.

4

Comply with UK immigration rules

You must not have a recent history of overstaying or breach of UK immigration conditions.

Validity and length of stay

The UK ETA granted to eligible Omani travellers is normally valid for up to two years or until the passport expires — whichever occurs first. During the ETA’s validity you can usually make multiple visits, with a maximum of six months per visit for most permitted purposes.

Special concessions (for example creative worker short visits or certain permitted paid engagements) can have shorter maximum stays — check the exact rules for your purpose of travel before you travel.

UK travel

UK ETA requirements

To apply for a UK ETA, all eligible travelers are required to meet certain basic criteria. Below are the mandatory requirements that every applicant must provide:

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1

Passport

Applicants must have a valid passport from an eligible country, preferably with two years of validity.

Personal Photo

Applicants must submit a recent upper-body photo that meets official specifications.

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Payment Method

Applicants must have a valid card or access to Apple Pay or Google Pay to pay the ETA UK fee.

Email address

Applicants must provide a valid email address to receive their UK ETA upon approval.

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How to apply for a UK ETA — steps for Omani citizens

The online application is straightforward. Follow the steps below and ensure your documents meet the stated guidelines.

  • Step 01
    Complete the online form

    Start the application by logging into the ETA portal and filling in your personal details, passport data and travel plans accurately.

  • Step 02
    Upload supporting documents

    Upload a clear digital scan of your Omani passport and a recent passport-style photograph that meets the digital photo guidelines.

  • Step 03
    Pay the application fee

    Pay securely online using accepted payment methods such as credit/debit card, Apple Pay or Google Pay.

  • Step 04
    Review and submit

    Check every detail before submission. Some systems do not retain partially completed forms, so finish in one session where possible.

  • Step 05
    Receive the decision by email

    Once processed you will receive an email with the ETA decision. If approved, the ETA is electronically attached to your passport.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes — citizens of Oman who are travelling for short stays should obtain a UK ETA before travel. The ETA covers short visits for tourism, business, transit or short study.

No. The ETA is for short-term travel and does not replace visas required for working, studying long-term, or settling in the UK.

An ETA is typically valid for up to two years or until your passport expires. Each visit is usually limited to a maximum of six months unless a specific concession applies.

If an ETA application is refused you will receive instructions by email. A refusal does not always prevent future applications — you may instead apply for a standard visa where necessary.

Many applicants receive decisions within a few working days. Some straightforward applications may be processed faster; others that require additional checks can take longer.

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