UK visa applications must be made online in Qatar

Manama: Visa applications to the UK under the Points-Based System (PBS), Domestic Worker and Settlement categories will have to be completed on-line by residents of Qatar starting April 1, the British embassy in Doha has announced.

The on-line system will be extended to the remaining applications, including visit visas, on May 1.

Applicants will henceforth have to make advance on-line appointments for the Visa Application Centre and the British embassy hopes that the electronic application form will reduce the amount of time applicants spend at the centre, Qatari media reported on Thursday.

Several improvements have been announced in the services offered by the British Embassy in Qatar, which include an upgrade of the Premium Services lounge and the option of faster delivery times at peak periods.

In 2010 the British embassy in Doha processed 24,325 visa applications for the UK, including 15,309 from Qatari nationals.

The PBS is a system for managing migration for those wishing to enter the UK for work or study. Under it, migrants must pass an assessment before they can get permission to enter or remain in the UK.

Each of the system's tiers has different points requirements. The most common tiers are Tier 4 (Student) and Tier 2 (Skilled Workers).