UK Visa for Emirati Citizens & Estonian Citizens: Everything You Need to Know in 2024

Traveling to the United Kingdom is a dream for many, whether for tourism, education, work, or visiting family. For citizens of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Estonia, understanding the UK visa process is crucial to ensure smooth entry and avoid delays or refusals.

In this blog, we’ll break down the visa requirements, eligibility criteria, application process, and tips for both 

UK visa for Emirati citizens and UK visa for Estonian citizens passport holders.

UK Visa for Emirati Citizens

Do Emiratis Need a Visa to Enter the UK?

As of 2024, UAE citizens no longer require a traditional visa for short visits to the UK (up to 6 months). Instead, they must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before departure. This new scheme makes visiting the UK easier and more convenient.

What Is a UK ETA?

The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a new digital entry requirement for travelers from visa-exempt countries. It's required for purposes like:

• Tourism
  
  

• Business visits
  
  

• Family visits
  
  

• Short-term study
  
  

• Transit through the UK
  
  

An approved ETA is valid for 2 years (or until your passport expires) and allows multiple visits of up to 6 months each.

How Emirati Citizens Can Apply for a UK ETA

The process is simple and quick:

1. Apply Online: Visit the UK ETA portal or app.
   
   

2. Fill in Personal Info: Enter your passport, travel details, and background information.
   
   

3. Upload a Passport Photo.
   
   

4. Pay the ETA Fee: Currently £10.
   
   

5. Wait for Approval: Most ETAs are processed within 48–72 hours.
   
   

When Do Emirati Citizens Need a Full Visa?

An ETA is not enough if you are planning to:

• Work in the UK
  
  

• Study for longer than 6 months
  
  

• Join a family member living in the UK
  
  

• Start a business or settle permanently
  
  

In such cases, Emirati citizens must apply for the appropriate UK visa (e.g., Skilled Worker, Student, or Family visa).

UK Visa Types for Emirati Citizens

• Skilled Worker Visa – For UAE nationals employed by UK-based sponsors.
  
  

• Student Visa – For higher education programs.
  
  

• Business/Investor Visas – For entrepreneurs or investors.
  
  

• Family Visa – For those joining spouses, partners, or children in the UK.
  
  

Required Documents for UK Visa (UAE Applicants)

• Valid UAE passport
  
  

• Completed visa application form
  
  

• Proof of financial means
  
  

• Sponsorship letter or CAS (if applicable)
  
  

• English language proficiency (for work/study)
  
  

• Tuberculosis test (for stays over 6 months)
  
  

UK Visa for Estonian Citizens

Do Estonians Need a Visa for the UK?

No, not for short stays.
Estonian passport holders can visit the UK without a visa for up to 6 months for tourism, business, or family visits. However, due to Brexit, Estonian citizens must now apply for visas for work, long-term study, or permanent residence.

UK Visa Types for Estonian Citizens

1. Standard Visitor Visa – If planning to stay longer than 6 months or for special activities.
   
   

2. Student Visa – For courses longer than 6 months. Requires a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).
   
   

3. Skilled Worker Visa – For jobs with a UK employer licensed to sponsor.
   
   

4. Health and Care Worker Visa – For Estonians working in the NHS or social care.
   
   

5. Start-Up or Innovator Visa – For Estonian entrepreneurs.
   
   

Post-Brexit Rule Changes

Prior to 2021, Estonians could live and work in the UK freely under EU law. Now, freedom of movement has ended, and they must meet specific visa requirements.

UK Visa Application Process for Estonians

1. Choose the Right Visa: Based on your purpose (work, study, etc.).
   
   

2. Pay the Visa Fee: Depending on the type of visa.
   
   

3. Book a Biometrics Appointment: At your nearest visa application center.
   
   

4. Submit Documents: Like passport, proof of funds, sponsor letters, etc.
   
   

5. Wait for Decision: Usually 3–6 weeks.
   
   

Required Documents for Estonian Citizens

• Valid Estonian passport
  
  

• Completed visa form
  
  

• Passport-sized photograph
  
  

• Proof of financial ability
  
  

• Accommodation details
  
  

• Travel plans
  
  

• Work or admission letters (if applicable)
  
  

• English proficiency proof
  
  

• Tuberculosis test (for long stays)
  
  

Comparison Table: Emirati vs Estonian Travelers to the UK

Useful Tips for All Applicants

• Apply Early: Start visa or ETA application at least 1 month before travel.
  
  

• Check Document Validity: Passport should be valid for at least 6 months.
  
  

• Attend Your Biometrics Appointment: This is required for most visa categories.
  
  

• Avoid Mistakes: Incomplete forms can lead to rejection or delays.
  
  

FAQs

Can Emiratis Work in the UK with an ETA?

No. The ETA is only for short-term tourism, business, or transit. Work requires a valid UK work visa.

Do Estonians Need a Visa to Transit the UK?

No, if the transit is under 24 hours and you don’t pass UK border control. Otherwise, a Standard Visitor Visa might be required.

How Long Does a UK Visa Take to Process?

Usually 15–30 business days. Faster services are available at an extra cost.

Conclusion

For Emirati and Estonian citizens, traveling to the UK in 2024 is easier with simplified entry processes. Emiratis benefit from the new ETA system, while Estonians enjoy visa-free short visits. However, both require full UK visas for work, study, or long-term stays.