IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? The United Kingdom has launched an electronic visa waiver for Kuwaiti business travelers and tourists.

What does the change mean? Kuwaiti nationals may apply online for a visa waiver without needing to appear at a visa application center. The waiver allows a visit to the U.K. of up to six months.

  • Implementation time frame: Immediate.
  • Visas/permits affected: Electronic visa waiver (EVW).
  • Who is affected: Kuwaiti passport holders visiting the U.K. for business, travel or study.
  • Impact on processing times: The process eliminates the need to give biometrics or to appear at a visa application center.
  • Business impact: The waiver eases travel to the U.K. for Kuwaiti business visitors conducting permitted business activities.
  • Next steps: Applicants must still apply online at least 48 hours before travel and up to three months prior to travel.

Background: The EVW was piloted for Kuwaiti nationals last year and has now been fully introduced. Applicants must submit an online application at the EVW service website and supply their passport information, a U.K. address where they will be staying, and departure and arrival details. They will not need to make a full visa application, nor give biometrics at a visa application center. An additional government processing fee of £15 will be introduced later in the year. According to the U.K. Immigration Minister, visitors from Kuwait topped 100,000 last year.

BAL Analysis: The online application and visa waiver eliminates the need to appear in person to apply for a visa and give biometrics, greatly easing business travel for Kuwaiti nationals.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group in the United Kingdom. For additional information, please contact uk@bal.com.

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