how to get visit visa to uk from kuwait

How to Apply for a UK Tourist Visa from Kuwait

Looking for a new travel experience? Would you chance a ride up the London Eye to witness the historic city from a bird’s eye view? Visit the famous London Bridge or check out how big the Big Ben is in the flesh? If these tickle your fancy, then consider applying for a UK tourist Visa today.

Whether it is for leisure (ie. holiday or vacation), business (ie. meetings or conferences), or for other reasons (i.e. to receive medical treatment), you will need to apply for a Standard Visitor Visa to travel to the United Kingdom.

Applying for a UK Standard Visitor Visa in Kuwait

As with other visa applications, filing for a UK Standard Visitor Visa can be done as early as 3 months before your target travel date. In order to push through with your visa application, you need to pay the Standard Visitor Visa fee priced at £89 (around 33 KDN) together with the following requirements:

Requirements:

• Your valid original passport with two consecutive blank pages
• Financial documents (i.e. building society book, bank statements, or proof of earnings as indicated in an official letter from your employer which details your position, salary, start date of employment, and company contact details)  to prove that you have sufficient funds for your travel
• Documents that will show that a third-party (who is either in the UK or will be legally in the UK at the time of your travel) will be providing financial support to you along with documents as specified in the previous point that will show that they have sufficient funds to support you in addition to themselves as well as their dependents, if applicable.
• Confirmation of legal residence, if you are not a citizen of the country from where you are applying or if your right to reside in that country is not specified in your passport.
• If self-employed: business registration documents detailing the business owner’s name and the date when the business began its operation.
• Your flight itinerary
• Your hotel booking or place of residence where you’ll be staying for your trip to the UK.

Other details that may be asked:

• your parents’ information including their names and dates of birth
• your partner’s name, date of birth, and passport number
• the name, place of residence and passport number of any family member you have in the UK
• any information on any civil, criminal, or immigration offences that you have committed

Procedures:

• To apply for a Standard Visitor Visa from outside the UK, click here .
• Once you have completed the application process, book an appointment through the VFS Global website .

Note: Booking an appointment is a very important step for your visa application as walk-in applicants are no longer entertained.

• On the day of appointment, be at the visa application centre (VAC) 15 minutes before your scheduled time and make sure to bring your appointment letter together with your application pack, a colour photograph, your passport, receipt of payment for your visa application fee, and secondary valid form of ID.

The Visa Application Centre in Kuwait can be located at:

Level 30, Arraya Center, Alshuhada Street,

Near Courtyard Marriott, Kuwait City

Note: Upon arrival at the VAC, you need to get a token to know your turn to proceed with the application. Also, hold on to your receipt, as this will be required when you collect your documents.

• The VAC staff will then collect your biometric information (photograph and fingerprints).

Tip:  To avoid any delays with your biometric info collection, make sure that your fingertips are free from any form of design or decoration, abrasions, cuts, or other markings as any of these may affect the quality of your finger scans.     

• Once you have accomplished all the application steps, you will be asked whether you wish to collect your documents in person or have them delivered to you by post.

Note: You can monitor the status of your visa application by availing the SMS service upon submission of your application at the VAC.

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UK Visa for Kuwaiti citizens

Apply for the online evw uk visa waiver to travel from kuwait to the uk.

Nationals of Kuwait now need an ETA to travel to the UK. The EVW is no longer available. Visit www.etauk.uk to get your ETA today.

The British government introduced the UK EVW to make it easier to travel to the UK from Kuwait for business or tourism. The requirements to obtain the EVW visa waiver from Kuwait were simple and easy to meet.

The EVW has now been phased out in favor of the ETA, which is just as easy to get online. On this page, Kuwaiti travellers can find information about visiting Britain without a UK visa and how to get an authorisation online.

Do need a UK visa from Kuwait?

Yes , citizens of Kuwait need some form of travel permit to enter the UK. This could be a traditional UK visa or a visa waiver.

Kuwait is one of a number of countries whose citizens were eligible to apply for a UK electronic visa waiver . The travel document was quick and easy to obtain, and the EVW application is completely online.

The ETA has now replaced the EVW for Kuwaitis . However, it is just as easy to get online.

Key features of the UK visa waiver for Kuwaitis (ETA)

Reason for travel.

Tourism, visiting family and friends, business, medical treatment, or short-term study

Length of stay:

Up to 6 months (3 months on the Creative Worker visa concession)

Application:

100% online

Nationals of Kuwait who wish to stay in the UK for longer than 6 months , or for a purpose other than those stated above, must apply for a visa at a UK embassy.

UK visa waiver for Kuwait application form

You only need to provide some basic information to complete the EVW application form from Kuwait. This includes details relating to:

• Your passport
• Your travel plans
• Security questions

You can complete the application with the required information in just a few minutes .

Note : Please check your details carefully before submitting your visa waiver application. Mistakes or missing information could leave to a delay in processing, or even a rejected ETA.

UK entry requirements for citizens of Kuwait

To travel from Kuwait to the UK, passengers just need the following documents:

• Valid passport
• UK visa or visa waiver

The passport used to enter the UK must be the same document used to apply for the UK visa waiver for Kuwait.

Travel to the United Kingdom from Kuwait

Although the UK , it's no longer a member of the European Union or the Schengen Area . This means it has its own visa and immigration policies.

The UK ETA is valid for entry to any part of the United Kingdom. Kuwait passport holders can travel to London with a UK visa waiver from Kuwait, as well as any other city.

The easiest way to travel to London from Kuwait is by plane. There are regular flights from Kuwait Airport to London Gatwick and London Stansted , with one stopover.

British embassy in Kuwait

Kuwaiti nationals do not need to go to an embassy or consulate to obtain a visa waiver for the UK. Only travellers who need a visa to stay in the UK for more than 6 months need to apply in person.

The British Embassy in Kuwait is located in Kuwait City at the following address:

Arabian Gulf Street, Dasman P O Box 2, Safat 13001 Kuwait City Kuwait

FAQ about travelling from Kuwait to UK

Can kuwaitis go to the uk.

Yes, Kuwaiti citizens are welcome to visit the UK provided they hold the relevant travel permit and documents.

Can Kuwait residents travel to the UK from Kuwait?

The UK entry requirements depend on the nationality of the individual, and not on their place of residency.

Residents of Kuwait need to check the visa requirements for the issuing country of their passport.

How do I apply for a UK visit visa from Kuwait?

Kuwaiti nationals do not need to apply for a UK visit visa. They are eligible for the UK ETA, which allows them to stay in the UK for up to 6 months without a visa.

You can get a UK visa waiver easily through the online application. Simply fill in the form, pay the application fee, and wait for your document by email.

How to obtain a London visa from Kuwait?

Kuwait passport holders wishing to travel to London need to follow the same steps for a UK visa or visa waiver.

The UK online visa waiver for Kuwaiti citizens is the easiest travel permit to obtain to visit London and the rest of the UK.

How long does it take to get a UK visa from Kuwait?

Applications for long-term British visas and work permits take longer to process than UK tourist visas and visa waivers. The fastest and easiest way to get permission to enter the UK from Kuwait is the electronic travel authorisation (UK ETA). The application can be completed online in minutes and the visa waiver for Kuwaitis is normally issued within 1-3 days. Please note that incorrect or incomplete visa applications for the United Kingdom may result in delays or even rejection.

Can Kuwaiti citizens visit the United Kingdom without a visa?

Kuwaiti citizens can obtain entry into the UK without a visa but always need a form of authorisation, like the ETA.

The electronic visa waiver allows travellers from Kuwait to enter the UK without a visa. It must be applied for and obtained online in advance before arrival in the United Kingdom.

How can I migrate to the UK from Kuwait?

If an individual meets the relevant criteria and requirements for immigration they can move from Kuwait to Britain permanently. It is essential to check these before travelling and obtain the relevant UK visa from Kuwait.

Visitors to the UK can get in touch with the British embassy in Kuwait or the UK immigration authorities for more information and advice.

How much is the Britain visa for people of Kuwait?

British visas for Kuwaitis and other foreign citizens always come at a fee. The application fee covers the costs of processing applications in a timely and efficient manner.

The specific cost of the UK visa depends on the visa type. Usually, tourist and short-term visas are more affordable than long-term permits. The electronic visa waiver is one of the cheapest and quickest authorisations to obtain.

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Fast & Easy Process for UK Visitor Visa

Get hands on uk visit visa kuwait to explore london and other areas in great britain.

Apply for UK electronic visa waiver if you have passport from Kuwait and other GCC countries

General Enquiries

Uk visit visa kuwait consultants.

Are you considering visiting the United Kingdom – one of Europe’s major economies and attractions? The UK welcomes visitors with numerous tourism options and business opportunities. While preparing for a dream UK trip from Kuwait, the first requirement is to apply for a UK visa from Kuwait.

UK Visit Visa Kuwait application can be complicated and stressful. The process can be complex to ensure all the essential documents are ready to apply for the UK visit visa. To ensure a smooth and stress-free journey in the application process, you can acquire the services of experienced UK visa consultants. DM Consultant Kuwait is the right choice to help you with the visa application process. We help you get electronic visa waiver, tourist visas, B-2 visas, and all other types of government endorsements required to visit the UK.

Options for London Tourist Visa

The visitor visa can be a short-term business visa, a London tourist visa for the UK holidays, a marriage visitor visa to get married or enter into a civil partnership, an academic visit visa, and much more.

If you offer frequent or successive visits to the UK, you can apply for a long-term Standard Visitor visa among UK visas. This Kuwait UK visa lasts 2, 5 or 10 years. You can stay for a maximum of six months on each visit.

And if you are travelling to the UK from visa-exempt countries, you may not require a visa. Discuss your additional travel plans with our experienced visa agents in Kuwait to check your eligibility to enter the UK.

Eligibility Criteria for Visit Visa for UK from Kuwait

To be eligible for a Visit Visa for UK from Kuwait , the Home Office needs evidence of the general requirements. As a non-EEA visa national, you will need the following UK visa requirements:

• Strong intention to return home from the UK after visa expiry.
• Provide evidence of any activities you intend to perform in the UK, which includes business and other activities.
• Financial stability to bear travel, accommodation, and other costs of yourself and the family members accompanying you.

Here at DM, it’s our job to support you in understanding the eligibility requirements to get started with the application process and with additional entry requirements to avoid entry restrictions.

Documents Necessary for UK Visit Visa

Before getting started with the application process for a UK Visit Visa, a passport holder must arrange all the travel documents listed below:

• Completed the visa application form online
• A copy of a valid passport and photographs (Kuwaiti Passport)
• Evidence of the international travel purpose to the UK
• Previous travel history and onward travel
• Bank statement showing the sufficient amount to manage your costs during the UK stay
• Details of accommodation in the UK
• Confirmed return air ticket with departure and arrival dates
• Biometric information and current address

Additional documents:

• Marriage certificate if travelling to the UK with your spouse
• Birth Certificate if your kids are accompanying you

Kuwait nationals can easily apply with these basic documents. We covered everything from understanding the Electronic Travel Authorisation system to post-landing services. If you are a Kuwaiti citizen looking to visit the UK, contact our team today to meet all the requirements of the UK immigration authorities and Kuwaiti authorities.

How to Apply for UK Tourist Visa from Kuwait?

To begin with, the application process for the UK Tourist visa from Kuwait, follow the simple steps mentioned here:

• Arrange all the documents as mentioned above
• Pay your visa fee and get the date of appointment and interview time with the UK Embassy.
• Attend the Interview and give correct and to-the-point answers to all of their questions.
• Approval of a UK Visa requires around 14 working days to approve your UK visa (Depending on Embassy London). Once all procedures are finished, you will receive your passport stamped with a UK visa.

What Makes DM Consultant the best UK Visa Agent in Kuwait?

You can avail of DM Consultant Kuwait expert UK visa services. With extensive knowledge of England Tourist Visa and regulations, our qualified team focuses on delivering personalised visa services to make your UK journey a smooth experience.

With a team of qualified immigration consultants and visa agents in Kuwait, we provide various services like visa and immigration, assessment of eligibility, obtaining work permits, submission of applications, electronic travel permits, any other form of travel permit, and services post landing. Our qualified experts will make your UK visa application process more straightforward and faster according to the requirements of the British government. Contact our team of professionals today.

We provide the following assistance:

• Submit your visa requirements by filling out the Contact Us form on this page.
• Our team of expert visa agents will contact you to help you with the visa application.
• We will offer you a free counselling session with our expert team, who will describe our professional services and give a clear strategy for the visa application process.
• You are required to sign up with us to avail of our services.
• We will complete the UK visa application form on your behalf and send it to the concerned centre for processing.
• Train you to be confident at the visa interview (if any)
• Give proper follow-ups about the status of your visa application.
• After approval, the visa will be issued and sent to you via your email box. Once you receive the visa, you can explore the United Kingdom’s best places.

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Residence Visa

Dependent visa, entrance visa, everything you need to know about a kuwait visa.

A VOA is issued after presentation of a six-month valid original passport, a return or onward travel ticket, a letter from the Kuwaiti sponsor, and hotel reservations.

If you wish to avoid the long queues at the airport, you can also lodge a  tourist e-visa application . All you will need is your valid UK passport to start with the application. 

Complete the online Kuwait eVisa application which will comprise of questions such as applicant information, passport details, and reasons for the visit.

Once you submit the application, it takes around one working day to send a response after being approved by the Ministry of Interior of the State of Kuwait. Once you receive your e-visa, you can present it to the border authorities after arrival, accompanied by the documents as listed for a VOA.

Please note that a tourist e-visa allows a stay of up to three months and is issued only in single-entry.

There is also an option to apply for a traditional tourist visa through the Kuwait Embassy in London. Again, if you are planning to arrive by land or sea or you are traveling for purposes other than tourism, you need to obtain a traditional visa, prior to your travel dates from the Embassy of Kuwait in London.

Below is the complete address:

Kuwait Consulate and Visa Office

2 Albert Gate

Tel: 020 7590 3400

Tube Station: Knightsbridge

Below are the major traditional visas issued by Kuwaiti missions to British citizens:

• Visit Visa (for business trips or for meeting relatives)

In order to apply for a visit visa, you must have a sponsor in Kuwait in the form of a Kuwaiti company or a resident relative.

The sponsoring party must lodge an application in Kuwait itself after obtaining a copy of the applicant’s passport. Once the visa is approved, a copy can be mailed to the foreigner.

Now, the applicant needs to carry this approval to the embassy in London after which the original visa will be stamped on the passport. A visit visa can be issued either for business or for meeting relatives in Kuwait. The documents required are as follows:

Business Visit Visa

• A visit visa application form filled out by the sponsor in Kuwait
• A copy of the traveler’s passport, accompanied by his/her signature
• A copy of the sponsor’s invitation letter, explaining the reasons of travel

Visit Visa for Meeting Relatives

• Proof of relationship with the sponsor in Kuwait
• A copy of the applicant’s valid passport
• Civil ID of the sponsor (copies and originals)
• Salary statement of the sponsor

Note: A Kuwaiti visit visa comes with a validity of 90 days and allows a maximum stay of up to 30 days per visit. You can however extend your visa after paying an additional fee and applying to the Immigration Department before the expiry of the current visa.

A residence visa is required when you wish to live long-term in Kuwait. It is issued in three types: work visa, domestic visa, and dependent visa.

All of these visas require you to have a sponsor in Kuwait.

The documents required for these different residence visas are as follows:

• A visa application form filled in Arabic and submitted by the resident family member to the “jawazaat” bureau located in Shuwaikh
• A copy of the dependent’s passport
• A copy of the Kuwaiti resident’s civil ID and salary certificate
• A birth certificate or marriage certificate
• An application form filled out by the Kuwaiti employer sponsor and submitted to the Ministry of Social Affairs & Labour
• Employee’s passport and no-objection certificate from the General Administration of Criminal Investigation at the Ministry of Interior

Once the application is approved, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Kuwait will share a copy of the work permit to the Kuwaiti Embassy in the UK. Once the applicant receives this document, he can apply for an entry visa at the UK mission.

A Kuwaiti entrance visa is granted to government and civil sector employees so that they can join providers.

The documents required are:

• A completed visa application form
• A copy of the sponsor’s civil ID
• A copy of the dependant’s passport
• Salary statement, accompanied by a copy of the company contract or license
• A copy of the attested marriage contract or proof of relationship
• A photocopy of the work permit

Once you have the documents ready, you can visit the General Department of Immigration in the governorate and submit the application package. If the visa is approved, you will receive the stamped passport within the set time frame.

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Kuwait Visa for UK Citizens: Application Process & Requirements [2024]

As opportunities for global travel expand, a rising number of individuals are exploring the remarkable cultures and stunning destinations our world has to offer. Kuwait, an Arabian Gulf jewel renowned for its deep-rooted history, vibrant culture, and awe-inspiring landscapes, is among these enchanting destinations. Familiarising yourself with the process and criteria for obtaining a Kuwait Visa for UK citizens is crucial if you are contemplating a journey to this oil-rich, intriguing country, ensuring a seamless entry and an unforgettable experience.

The United Kingdom and Kuwait share a rich history and robust ties that foster a hospitable atmosphere for British citizens eager to explore Kuwait. For aficionados of history and culture, Kuwait presents an abundance of unique experiences such as the Tareq Rajab Museum, the Kuwait Towers, and the Grand Mosque, offering glimpses into both the nation’s historical heritage and dynamic present. Furthermore, Kuwaitis are well-regarded for their hospitality and warmth, especially towards British visitors, a testament to the enduring diplomatic relationship between the two countries. This friendly reception guarantees a pleasant and memorable stay for British tourists.

Moreover, the UK-Kuwait relationship extends to educational and cultural exchanges, leading to a substantial prevalence of English speakers in Kuwait, thus facilitating communication and navigation for British visitors.

In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive overview of Kuwait’s visa procedures for British citizens. We will cover the variety of visa options, the application process, and the essential documentation you need to prepare. Our goal is to guide you through the procedures to secure your entry into this fascinating Arabian nation, whether your purpose is leisure, business, or reconnecting with loved ones.

Table of Contents

Do British Citizens Need a Visa to Visit Kuwait?

British citizens need a visa to visit Kuwait. However, they could obtain a visa on arrival or apply for an e-Visa before traveling.

The Visa on Arrival program allows UK citizens to get their visa directly upon landing in Kuwait.

The e-Visa program is an online system for the application of entry visas to Kuwait. Travelers can apply and pay online, and receive their visa electronically.

Kuwait Visa Requirements

You need a passport with at least another six months of remaining validity and at least two blank pages in order to apply for a visa to Kuwait. If you are submitting an online application, you must scan and upload your passport’s bio page.  To pay the visa fee, you also require a credit or debit card.

Depending on the purpose of your trip, you may also be required to submit the following documents:

• Recent passport photo with a white background.
• Return air ticket.
• Proof of accommodation in Kuwait.
• Proof of sufficient financial means.
• Letter of invitation from your relative/friend.
• Letter of sponsorship from a business partner.

How to apply for a Kuwait Visa for UK Citizens

The Government of Kuwait provides UK citizens with convenient options for obtaining a visa: the eVisa and the Visa on Arrival. These alternatives offer flexibility and ease, allowing travelers to choose the method that best suits their travel plans and personal preferences.

How to Apply for a Kuwait eVisa for UK Citizens

You can apply for an online visa or eVisa to Kuwait by filling out a form with your personal information and information on relevant travel documents. Please be aware that the Kuwait Online visa is directly linked to your travel document (i.e., passport), thus it is important that the information submitted matches exactly what is on the passport, which must be valid for at least another six months when entering Kuwait. The Kuwait Online Visa has a 90-day single-entry validity period.

• Required Documents : Prepare your documents.
• Application Form : Visit the official Kuwait eVisa website https://evisa.moi.gov.kw . Click on the ‘English’ option at the top of the site if the page isn’t already in English. Then, click on ‘Apply for Tourist e-Visa’. You will see a list of supported countries including the rules and regulations. Scroll down and click on the ‘ Start ‘ button to begin your eVisa application.
• Fill in Personal Details : Fill in the requested personal details such as full name, nationality, date of birth, and passport number. The information should be as it appears on your passport.
• Travel Information : You’ll be asked for details about your travel plans, such as your arrival date, accommodation details, and the purpose of your visit.
• Review and Submit : Review all of the information that you’ve entered to ensure that it’s correct. Once you’re sure, submit your application.
• Payment : You will be prompted to pay the visa fee using a credit or debit card. Make sure you have a card handy that allows international transactions.
• Confirmation : After payment, you should receive a confirmation of your application via email.
• Processing : Your application will be processed, and this usually takes a few business days. You can check the status of your application on the same eVisa website.
• Approval : Once your eVisa is approved, you’ll receive an email with the eVisa attached as a PDF. Print out a copy to present to the immigration officer when you arrive in Kuwait.

The Kuwait immigration aims to respond to visa applications within 2 business days. It is advised to apply for your Kuwait Visa ahead of time to avoid any unnecessary delays.

How to apply for Kuwait Visa on Arrival (VOA) for UK Citizens

The Kuwaiti government allows UK citizens to obtain their visas at the airport when they arrive for their trip to Kuwait. If you’re visiting for a short period and don’t plan to work, you can secure a visa upon arrival. This visa permits a stay in Kuwait for up to three months. Only travelers arriving by air are eligible for the Kuwaiti visa on arrival.

You must have a valid passport (valid for at least six months), a plane ticket, and the appropriate visa fee. Additionally, you might need to provide:

Here’s how you can apply for a Visa on Arrival in Kuwait:

• Arrival : Upon arriving at a Kuwaiti airport, look for signs directing you to the Visa on Arrival section. This is typically located in the immigration area.
• Form : Collect the Visa on Arrival application form from the designated counter. Fill out this form completely and accurately, ensuring all your personal and travel details match what’s in your passport and other travel documents.
• Documents : Be ready with your necessary documents. You’ll need a valid passport with at least six months’ validity and a confirmed return or onward ticket. They might also request proof of accommodation and sufficient funds for your stay in Kuwait.
• Payment : You’ll need to pay the Visa on Arrival fee. The fee is approximately 3 Kuwaiti Dinars ($10 USD) . Payment methods vary, but it’s usually payable in cash or card at the counter.
• Submission : Submit your filled-out application form, passport, and any other required documents at the designated counter, and make the necessary payment.
• Approval : The immigration officer will process your application and, if approved, stamp a visa into your passport.

Do children need a visa?

Every adult traveler to the Republic of Kuwait must submit an e-Visa application using their individual account. Parents can submit applications on behalf of their children through their accounts.

How long does it take to get a Kuwait visa?

Applying for a Kuwait eVisa is a straightforward process, but it’s essential to take into account the processing timeframes. According to the Kuwait eVisa portal, all submitted applications are responded to during working days and official working hours. This means that if you apply over the weekend (Friday and Saturday in Kuwait) or on a public holiday, the processing of your application will likely be delayed.

Despite this, the Kuwaiti authorities make substantial efforts to respond to applications within two working days. Once your tourist e-Visa application has been approved, you’ll be notified via the email address you provided during the application process. So, do remember to keep an eye on your inbox (and your spam folder, just in case) for this important communication!

When it comes to obtaining a Visa on Arrival in Kuwait, the process is generally quick and efficient, often taking just a few minutes to a couple of hours, depending on the volume of arrivals and the promptness of the immigration staff. However, during peak travel times, there might be longer waiting periods. Do note, the ability to secure a Visa on Arrival can depend on current immigration policies, so it’s always advisable to verify the most up-to-date information from reliable sources before your journey.

How long can a UK citizen stay in Kuwait with a visa?

If you are traveling to Kuwait with a valid tourist eVisa, you are allowed to stay in the country for a maximum of 90 days (approximately three months). However, keep in mind that your eVisa is only valid for 30 days from the date it was issued, and you can only enter Kuwait once during this 30-day period. Essentially, this means that you must enter Kuwait within 30 days of your eVisa being issued, but once you’ve entered, you can stay for up to 90 days.

Overstaying beyond your permitted 90 days will result in a fine. For each day you overstay, you’ll be fined KD 10, which is roughly equivalent to $30. Please note, if you incur an overstay fine, you will not be allowed to leave the country until you have paid the fine in full. Always ensure you adhere to your visa’s validity to avoid any unnecessary complications during your stay.

Is There Visa on Arrival?

Yes, UK citizens are eligible for a Visa on Arrival in Kuwait. Upon arriving at a Kuwaiti airport, British travelers can head to the designated counter in the immigration area to fill out the application form and provide the necessary documents. This generally includes a valid passport with at least six months’ validity and a confirmed return or onward ticket.

Types of Kuwait visa

Kuwait Tourist Visa: This is a short-term visa issued either online or on arrival

Kuwait Business Visa: Business travelers who have a sponsor in Kuwait (the company they will visit) are granted this visa.

Kuwait Visit Visa: Foreign nationals who have a friend or relative in Kuwait who is willing to host them while they are there can apply for this type of visa.

Kuwait Work Visa: You will require an employer that can submit a work permit application to the Kuwaiti Ministry of Labor in order to obtain a work visa for Kuwait. The permit must first be approved by the Ministry of Interior before you may apply for a visa at a Kuwaiti embassy.

Kuwait Family Visa: The spouse and dependent children of Kuwaiti citizens are eligible for a family visa for Kuwait.

Kuwait Student Visa: For international students who have been accepted into a Kuwait education institution.

Kuwait Transit Visa: Applying for a transit visa to Kuwait is possible online or at an embassy. A confirmed onward ticket and a current visa for the intended travel location are required.

Can you extend your Kuwait Visa?

Before your visa expires, you can apply to extend your stay in Kuwait through the Kuwait Immigration Department online.

What are the costs the Kuwait Visa?

The cost of a Kuwait eVisa or online visa for tourists is 3 KWD which is approximately $10 USD for the application fee and around $1 USD as a service charge, so the total cost will amount to $11 USD.

Do British Citizens need Kuwait transit Visa?

Citizens of the United Kingdom do not need a transit visa for Kuwait if they do not leave the airport and their layover is less than 24 hours.

However, if you plan to leave the airport and stay in Kuwait for a period of time, regardless of how short, you would typically need to apply for an appropriate type of visa.

What is the Address of the Kuwaiti Embassy in the UK?

The Embassy of the State of Kuwait is located at: 2 Albert Gate, London SW1X 7JU, England.

Is Kuwait safe for UK Citizens?

The UK government provides travel advice for its citizens through the  Gov.uk website.  It is recommended to check this resource for the most current information, as the situation can change due to various factors, including political stability, crime rates, and health risks such as COVID-19.

Kuwait is a safe country and it is safe for British nationals aswell. Violent crime against foreigners is rare. You should be able to go about your exploration with peace of mind.

While Kuwait is generally regarded as a safe country, certain precautions are advised by the British Government for its citizens. Visitors are urged to exercise caution when venturing into more conservative regions such as Jahra and Jleeb Al Shuyoukh, where there have been cases of firearm incidents and robberies. The government discourages travel to the desert regions near the Iraq border without the necessary permits and authorisation. Off-road driving is also discouraged due to the residual presence of landmines and other hazardous ordnance in Kuwait.

The UK Government further advises British travellers to reassess their plans for visiting Kuwait if their passports bear an Israeli stamp. This is due to the potential risk of visa refusal and/or denial of entry into Kuwait.

Precautions such as avoiding unnecessary travel at night, keeping valuable items secure, and being aware of your surroundings can enhance your safety.

What are the Covid-19 Requirements?

COVID-19 vaccination proof or a negative COVID-19 PCR test is  not required  for entry into Kuwait. The Kuwaiti authorities lifted all COVID-19 travel restrictions on 1st of May 2022.

Interesting Facts About Kuwait

• Kuwaitis are a minority in their own country.
• The official language of Kuwait is Arabic.
• The Kuwaiti Dinar is the most valuable currency in the world.
• Kuwait official religion is Islam.
• Kuwait has no renewable freshwater resources.

Travel Tips for UK Citizens visiting Kuwait

Food :  When dining in Kuwait, be sure to try regional specialties like falafel, harees (a porridge made of wheat and meat), and machboos (spiced rice with meat). Additionally, keep in mind that alcohol is not easily accessible, so it is preferable to respect local traditions and refrain from drinking it in public.

Culture: It’s crucial to respect local customs and culture when traveling to Kuwait. Consider wearing modest clothing, especially in public, and be aware of traditional values. Furthermore, it is regarded courteous to extend a cordial handshake when meeting someone and to accept offers of tea or coffee as a sign of hospitality.

Tourist attraction:  There are several tourist attractions in Kuwait worth seeing. Be sure to visit well-known sites like the Grand Mosque, the Liberation Tower, and the Kuwait Towers, as well as cultural hubs like the Souq Mubarakiya and the Sheikh Jaber Al Ahmad Cultural Centre.

Currency: The Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD) is the currency accepted in Kuwait. It is advised to convert your money into Kuwaiti Dinar at banks or authorized exchange offices, and it is usually a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller businesses that might not accept credit cards.

Relationships and LGBTQI+ concerns are governed by rigorous regulations in Kuwait. Same-sex relationships and posing as the other sex are forbidden. The various gender identities are not recognized in Kuwait. Unmarried couples are not allowed to live or stay together in hotel rooms. Male and female public demonstrations of affection are prohibited as well.

In the desert and on certain beaches, Kuwait has unexploded weapons, including landmines. Keep to well-traveled routes. On beaches, avoid picking up odd objects.

Closing Thoughts

If you enjoyed our Kuwait Visa for UK Citizens guide, you may want to check out our  Kenya Visa for UK Citizens  guide too.

British nationals planning a trip to Kuwait are required to comply with the country’s visa regulations, integral measures that ensure the safety and security of the nation. By understanding and fulfilling the specific visa requirements, including obtaining the appropriate visa type, providing the necessary supporting documents, and adhering to the application process, UK travellers can embark on their Kuwaiti journey with assurance. Armed with this knowledge, they can fully immerse themselves with all the goodness that Kuwait offers.

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How to Travel to Kuwait and Get a Kuwait Visa

I f you are a traveler who curious about exploring the Persian Gulf or the Middle East but struggling to find an accessible blend of the known and unknown, Kuwait – and particularly Kuwait City – may be the perfect place to begin your journey.

Nowadays, a Kuwait travel visa is incredibly easy to acquire for a large number of nationalities, including citizens of the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, and all EU countries. The Kuwait visa is valid for one week. Before that expires, if you’d like to continue to explore Kuwait, you can apply for a Kuwait eVisa from the official government website.

Kuwait Visa

Kuwait is an oasis of the Persian Gulf, and should be considered as a destination for any bold adventurer

For these same countries eligible for a transit visa, this process only takes a few minutes; generally, if you’ve been accepted for a transit visa you will also be accepted through the eVisa application.

Be careful though; the process can take several days to complete, and you would not want to be caught in between visas because then, regardless of your pre-arranged plans, you’d likely be forced to leave until the new visa comes through. It is also possible to acquire a temporary driver’s permit in Kuwait if you meet the requirements, which can also be found on their government website.

Kuwait Road Trip

Then, you can do a road trip through Kuwait on the seven-day transit visa and enter a number of other countries along the Persian Gulf, depending on which direction you go: most popularly, the beautiful mountainous city of Tehran lies to the East, and the gargantuan skyscrapers of Dubai lie to the South.

This journey is not for the faint-hearted, as the cultural barriers are found to be debilitating, exhausting, and unnerving to many Westerners, especially if one decides to drive through the country into other parts of the region.

However, like many especially bold travel adventures, overcoming such limitations can make their reward doubly redeeming.

If one decides not to explore other countries and stay within the confines of Kuwait, a week on a transit can also be found to be a suitable amount of time to absorb the riches of the area: soak in the beaches, explore the metropolitan, Dubai-like Kuwait City, or explore the historical sites in the country that lie inland, outside of the big city and away from the Gulf.

Traveling to Kuwait: Getting There and Staying There

In addition to the seven-day transit visa, there is also a visa on arrival that travelers can seek upon entering Kuwait. It is only valid for 24 hours, but this can give a traveler a feel for the city, and ultimately lead them to the decision of whether traveling in the country, as well as the region as a whole, would be a good fit.

If indeed, they wish to explore the region, the transit visa is a convenient visa to obtain for many legal passport holders. If instead, the traveler would like to stay in Kuwait longer, they may also apply for a more long-term eVisa which grants them a ninety-day stay in the country.

The longer visa also grants them permission to leave and re-enter without having to re-apply for a visa. This can be great if one is looking to explore the rest of the region, or simply go somewhere else and return within ninety days.

Kuwait City Nightlife

When talking about Kuwait City nightlife, it is important to note that Kuwait is a dry country, meaning alcohol is not served legally anywhere in the country.

This, however, does not prevent people from having fun in the nighttime; if anything, it forces people to pursue different avenues of entertainment outside of alcohol. If you’re bored of going to a brand new place just to find yourself cooped up in some bar drinking a mediocre beer or an above-average cocktail, you may not be bothered by the lack of alcohol here.

There are still dozens of dance clubs to choose from, as well as metropolitan park areas and restaurants open late. Some of the nightclubs are so vast, extravagant, and opulent that on the inside, they appear to have a size more comparable to an amusement park.

They are known to have a layout similar to a mansion, with dozens of different areas to lounge and socialize, each with different atmospheres. Since Kuwait can have a particularly warm climate in the summertime, these party palaces usually come equipped with pools and even waterslides.

Things to do in Kuwait

In a similar vein of extravagance, there are alternatives, yet no less extravagant, sources of entertainment in Kuwait City in the form of outdoor theme parks, combining theatre, natural beauty, and general leisure all into one.

Kuwait’s Magical Fountain Park attracts a lot of tourists due to its wide walkways and well-constructed park atmosphere. This, of course, interestingly parallels the music blaring from the fountains within the park and the attendees enjoying its tunes.

The music will be an unfamiliar experience to Western ears unless they are familiar with the musical styles of this area. In short, the style usually consists of an upbeat rhythm, with connecting and underlying string instruments such as sitars and drum sounds uncommon in popular Western music.

The accompanying vocals are usually sung in a deep male voice in Arabic. But since many of the same music popular in the West is also popular in Kuwait, there is commonly a hybrid element of Western music in terms of tempo and melody.

Sometimes a lush cultural experience entirely different from your own can be most easily expressed in music, and this music fountain park thusly became a gravitating attraction to reflect on the uniqueness of Kuwait City.

If after a long night of this one grows tired of socializing, there is always the stunning Persian Gulf to walk along, with networks of gulf side walking paths to make the trek more serene.

Many places along the shores of Kuwait City, such as the highly recommend Al Kout, turns into a beach that is accessible at any hour of the day.

This beach has a unique atmosphere because on top of the beach sits these columns of bridges, making it look like you are sitting inside of a palace while at the same time relaxing on a beach.

Further, if one is still not tired of waterside attractions, there is also the Kobar Island nearby, a popular tourist attraction for those who want to feel surrounded by the azure gulf in the comforts of a total oasis.

Recommended Travel Resources

• Travel Insurance: World Nomads .
• Transport: CheapOAir and Skyscanner (Best Sites to Research Flight Prices) 
• Best Car Rental Deals: Rentalcars.com
• Best Sites to Find Hotel Deals: Hotels.com and Booking.com
• My Favorite Hotel Review Website: TripAdvisor
• Best Tours: Viator and Get Your Guide

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Money latest: State pensions 'could be in doubt for future generations'

A pensions expert has told Money that if he was 20 today, he would be "sceptical" about the promise of a state pension. Read this and all the latest consumer and personal finance news below, plus leave a comment in the box.

Tuesday 30 April 2024 07:41, UK

• State pensions could be in doubt for future generations, expert warns
• Higher food prices and shortages warning - as new Brexit checks begin
• Royal Mail pausing £5 charge for post carrying counterfeit stamps
• Tesco offering up to £50 in points through 'Clubcard Challenges' campaign

Essential reads

• Swap rates are the reason mortgage rates are rising - what are they?
• Gameboys, Sindy dolls, designer shoes, 1950s furniture: The items in your attic that could be worth a small fortune
• Money Problem : 'A company isn't abiding by written warranty for dodgy building work - what can I do?'  
• '£2,000 landed in my account' - The people who say they're manifesting riches
• Train strikes in May - everything you need to know

Ask a question or make a comment

By Jess Sharp , Money team

We first came across Tom McPhail when he posted this on X... 

The pensions expert appeared to be suggesting state pensions were at risk of disappearing.  

After speaking to him on the phone, he confirmed that was exactly his concern, warning something needed to be done sooner rather than later to avoid a "catastrophic" situation.  

He described state pensions as a social contract – each generation pays taxes and national insurance, which funds the pensions of today's older people, and they hope the following generation will do the same for them.

But with population growth slowing, there's a worry there may simply not be enough people to keep the system afloat in the future.  

"There's a significant demographic shift going on in the UK. It started before the Second World War, cohorts of people born in the 1930s have been experiencing significantly longer lives than was the case prior to that, so people now in their 80s are living quite a lot longer," he said. 

"But at the same time, we've got fewer children coming through. And so this exacerbates the shift in the age of the population."

He said if he was 20 today, he would be "sceptical" about the promise of a state pension because he isn't sure how it's going to be paid for.  

At the moment, the state pension system costs around £120bn a year and more than half of retired people rely on it to make up at least 50% of their income, he added.  

Over the next 50 years, Tom predicts the proportion of GDP the state spends on older people will increase from around 16% to 25%.  

"I hesitate to use the word unsustainable, but it will certainly start to look challenging," he said.  

"If we suddenly switched off the state pension or significantly reduced it, people would be in trouble, so the government can’t do that. 

"You can't keep on progressively ratcheting up a more and more generous state pension. The costs of state pensions is going to become increasingly difficult for the younger cohorts to bear."

He pointed to a few ways to potentially salvage the state pension – policy change, more babies being born or people working until they are in their 70s.  

"Politicians are going to have to make decisions about how to get out of this kind of political bind," Tom added. 

"Time and time again it's just kick the can down the road on the pension question, just put a sticking plaster on it and let the next government deal with the problem. 

"You can't keep doing that. So I would really like to see, on the other side of this forthcoming general election... whoever's in power, in collaboration with whoever's in opposition, to just really open it up to some honest conversations about where the demographics are going to take us." 

He does note there is one piece of good news: "This happens quite slowly, so we do have time on our side." 

Basically, swap rates dictate the pricing of fixed-rate mortgages.

Lenders, such as banks and building societies, borrow in order to lend.

They borrow from financial markets and often these transactions are made using Sterling Overnight Index Average (SONIA) swap rates, which can move around.

By contrast, most domestic mortgages are set on what is known as a "term" rate – in other words, the borrower knows how much interest they will be paying for a set period of time.

To avoid a situation where the SONIA rate goes above the rate it is charging borrowers, which would leave the bank or building society lending at a loss, the lender will seek to enter a "swap" arrangement which protects them from such a situation.

Under such agreements, two parties exchange cash flows with each other. The lending bank will swap the variable payments it may make to service a mortgage (which is fixed to the SONIA rate) for payments at a fixed rate. This insulates the lending bank from unexpected increases in the SONIA rate.

Once a deal is struck based on the swap rate, mortgage providers set their fixed deals for customers, with their own profit margin priced in.

How are swap rates decided?

Swap rates are based on what the markets think will happen to interest rates in the future.

When they go up, so do the rates being offered on the high street, as we have seen in the last week or two amid uncertainty over whether forecasts for a summer base rate cut are accurate.

Read other entries in our Basically... series:

Train drivers will stage a fresh wave of strikes and overtime bans in May, causing disruption to the rail network.

The strikes are part of a long-running dispute over pay.

Members of Aslef union at 16 rail companies will walk out on different days from 7 to 9 May. Additionally, all members will refuse to work any overtime from 6 May to 11 May.

Here is a full list of the services affected by strikes and when.

Rail strike dates

Tuesday 7 May

Strikes will affect c2c, Greater Anglia, GTR Great Northern Thameslink, Southeastern, Southern, Gatwick Express and South Western Railway.

Wednesday 8 May

Strikes will affect Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, Great Western Railway and West Midlands Trains.

Thursday 9 May

Strikes will affect LNER, Northern Trains and TransPennine Express.

Overtime ban dates

From Monday 6 May to Saturday 11 May union members will not work overtime.

Overtime bans, an action short of a strike, means some services may not be running or may be reduced as drivers refuse to work their rest days.

People are advised to check before they travel, as some areas may have no service.

How do strikes and overtime bans affect services?

Strikes tend to mean services on lines where members are participating are extremely affected or cancelled entirely, whereas overtime bans often lead to reduced services.

How can I stay in the loop?

You can use the National Rail's  journey planner  to see when trains are running.

Be sure to check it close to when you plan to travel, as it will be updated regularly.

Why are the strikes still happening?

Aslef rejected a two-year offer of 4% in 2022 and another 4% this year, saying this was way below inflation, and was linked to changes in terms and conditions.

Aslef says train drivers have not had an increase in salary for five years, since their last pay deals expired in 2019.

Royal Mail is temporarily waiving a £5 charge for unsuspecting members of the public who receive post sent with a fake stamp.

The company said it was developing a new scanner in its app which will let customers scan stamp barcodes and check whether they are recognised counterfeits.

While this takes place, the £5 charge for people who receive the post will be paused, Royal Mail said.

It added that it would work to ensure the sender of items posted with counterfeit stamps are charged instead of the recipient where possible.

Royal Mail chief commercial officer Nick Landon said new security measures alongside its barcoded stamps have "led to a 90% reduction" in counterfeits.

"We want our customers to buy stamps with confidence and always recommend that customers only purchase stamps from post offices and other reputable high street retailers," he said.

Tesco Clubcard users have the chance to secure up to £50 in points over the next six weeks as part of its new "Clubcard Challenge" initiative.

Three million Clubcard holders will be invited to take part in the campaign. If they accept, they'll receive 20 challenges that Tesco says will be "personalised just for them" - of which they can choose up to 10 to complete.

The supermarket giant said it was working with AI company EagleAI to offer the "hyper-personalised" promotion.

Challenges will involve spending a certain amount on a range, such as its BBQ food offering, or type of product, such as plant-based food. Customers who complete the "challenges" will be handed extra Clubcard points.

Lizzie Reynolds, group membership and loyalty director at Tesco, said the company was "very excited" to see how its customers responded.

Let us know what you think of this in the comments box above.

Strikes at Heathrow Airport are taking place over the next few weeks, with the first one already under way.

Staff at the UK's biggest airport are set to walk out during the early bank holiday in May, with their union warning planes could be "delayed, disrupted and grounded".

Click here to find out when all the strikes are, what disruption is expected and which airlines are affected...

The average price paid for comprehensive motor insurance rose 1% in the first quarter of the year, according to industry data indicating an easing in the steep rises seen last year.

The latest tracker issued by the Association of British Insurers (ABI) showed a 1% increase on the previous three months to £635.

That was despite the average claim paid rising 8% to reach a record of £4,800, the body said.

The ABI said the disparity showed that its members were "absorbing" additional costs and not passing them on.

Nevertheless, the average policy was still 33%, or £157, higher between January and March compared to the same period last year.

Read the full story here ...

Getir , the grocery delivery app, has abandoned a European expansion that is set to result in the loss of around 1,500 jobs in the UK.

Sky News had previously revealed that the Turkey-based company, which means "to bring" in Turkish, had  successfully raised money from investors to fund its withdrawals  from the UK, Germany and the Netherlands.

It had already departed other countries including Italy and Spain.

The exits were prompted by growing losses linked to the company's rapid expansion.

Waitrose is launching an exclusive range of products with popular chef Yotam Ottolenghi today. 

The Israeli-British chef is famous for his Middle Eastern and Mediterranean-inspired food, and has worked with the supermarket to release products including a pasta sauce, spice blend and shawarma marinade. 

It is the first time Ottolenghi has partnered with a supermarket in such a way. 

The full range will be available in Waitrose shops, Waitrose.com and Ottolenghi.co.uk from today, while a selection of products will be available from the supermarket on Deliveroo and Uber Eats. 

An introductory 20% off offer is being launched until 18 June. 

The range includes: 

• Ottolenghi Miso Pesto 165g (£4)
• Ottolenghi Kalamata Olive & Harissa Sauce  350g (£4.50)
• Ottolenghi Pomegranate, Rose & Preserved Lemon Harissa 170g (£5)
• Ottolenghi Green Harissa 170g (£5)
• Ottolenghi Aleppo & Other Chillies Blend (£3.95)
• Ottolenghi Sweet & Smokey Blend (£3.95)
• Ottolenghi Citrus & Spice Blend (£3.95)
• Ottolenghi Red Chilli Sauce (£4.50)
• Ottolenghi Shawarma Marinade (£4)

Ottolenghi said he had "always been super eager to get our flavours onto people's dinner plates nationwide, not just in London, without having to cook it from scratch every single time". 

He added: "I hate to admit it but the pasta sauce already features heavily in my home kitchen, when no one is looking."

The cost of bread, biscuits and beer could increase this year due to the impact of the unusually wet autumn and winter on UK harvests.

Research suggests that production of wheat, oats, barley and oilseed rape could drop by four million tonnes (17.5%) compared with 2023.

The wet weather has resulted in lower levels of planting, while flooding and storms over winter caused farmers more losses.

The predictions come just as the rate of price increases on many food items begins to slow as inflation falls.

The Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU) analysed forecasts from the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHBD) and government yield data.

It found a "real risk" of beer, biscuits and bread becoming more expensive if the poor harvest increases costs for producers, according to its lead analyst Tom Lancaster.

Beer prices could be affected because the wet weather is still disrupting the planting of spring crops such as barley, the ECIU said.

And potatoes might also see a price hike in the coming months, with growers warning of a major shortage in the autumn due to persistent wet weather.

By Emily Mee , Money team

When I think about the toys of my childhood - my pink Barbie car, my Gameboy Micro, my collection of Pokemon cards - I can't tell you where they went. 

Maybe they were shipped off to a charity shop at some point... Or perhaps they're in the attic? 

While my hot pink Gameboy Micro is lost to the void of time (or a cardboard box somewhere in my mum's house), other versions of it are selling on eBay for £100 or more. 

And there are Pokemon cards selling for anything from a tenner to hundreds or even thousands of pounds. 

It's possible you also have items at home that are a collector's dream. 

Gumtree says its collectables category is already proving to be a "hotbed of activity" this year, with listings up 22% in 2024 so far. 

Its most popular items include rare stamps, coins, war memorabilia and Pokemon cards. 

Spring is often the most popular time for buying and selling collectibles, with demand spiking in March and April. 

We've enlisted the help of TV presenter and collectables expert Tracy Martin to give an idea of what could make you an easy buck. 

Old toys making a 'retro comeback'

Tracy explains that while trends change, vintage toys tend to stand the test of time. 

"Toys are always going to be popular because they tap into nostalgia, our childhood memories," she says, explaining that adults like to buy the toys they used to have. 

Perhaps you were into cars, and you've got some old diecast vehicles from Matchbox, Corgi or Dinky Toys. 

A quick look on toy auction site Vectis.co.uk shows a Corgi Toys "James Bond" Aston Martin estimated to sell for between £600 to £700 - while others are likely to fetch £50 to £60. 

Sindy dolls are also particularly sought after - particularly those from the 1960s - and Barbie dolls from the 1990s too. 

Pokemon cards have seen a "massive surge", Tracy says, with people paying "thousands and thousands of pounds" for good unopened sets. 

She's even seen examples of people paying £16,000 upwards. 

Another up-and-coming market is games consoles, such as Gameboys, vintage consoles and PlayStations, which are making a "retro comeback".

What else could earn you some cash?

Tracy says there's currently a surge in people wanting to buy "mid century" furniture, which is dated to roughly 1945 to 1965 and typically uses clean lines and has a timeless feel. 

Vintage Danish furniture is sought after, particularly tables and chairs with good designer names such as Wegner, Verner Panton and Arne Jacobsen.

Prices range from the low hundreds into the thousands.

People will also look out for vintage framed prints by artists such as Tretchikoff, J.H. Lynch and Shabner - these can range in price from £50 upwards to a few hundred pounds plus. 

Vintage clothes, handbags and shoes can fetch a good price - but you can also invest in modern pieces. 

Tracy suggests looking out for good classic designs with high-end designer names such as Gucci, Chanel, Dior and Louis Vuitton. 

Modern designers such as Irregular Choice, Vendula and Lulu Guinness are also collected. 

Collaborations with designers and celebrities can do well as they're often limited edition. 

For example, Tracy says the H&M x Paco Rabanne maxi silver sequin dress retailed at £279.99 last year but now sells for in excess of £600. 

When it comes to shoes, "the quirkier the design the better" - so look out for brands such as Irregular Choice and Joe Browns. 

Converse and Dr Martens collaborations also do well, depending on the design and condition, as well as Adidas and Nike limited edition trainers. 

What's the best way to sell?  

Tracy recommends to always research before selling your items, as they might perform better on different platforms and you can also get an idea of how much they sell for. 

For example, Vinted can be a good place to sell clothes and shoes, while other items might be better suited for sale on Gumtree, eBay or Etsy. 

Tracy's favourite way to sell is through auction - especially if there are specialist sales. 

Vectis is one of the biggest and most popular for toy selling. 

Interests in different periods and items can go up and down, but for the time being vintage pieces from the 1980s and 90s are popular. 

How much you'll be able to get from an item often takes into account its rarity, condition, whether it reflects a period in time, and if it's got a good name behind it. 

You never know - you might be sitting on a treasure trove. 

Annual mortgage repayments have increased by up to 70% since 2021, according to new data from Zoopla .

The biggest impact of rising interest rates has been in southern England where house prices are higher.

Across the South West, South East and East of England, the annual mortgage cost for an average home is £5,000 higher than previously. This rises to £7,500 in London.

But the universal uptick in mortgage costs has been less pronounced in other parts of the UK, with the North East seeing a £2,350 increase.

In a bid to tackle inflation, the Bank of England has raised the base rate from 0.1% in December 2021 to a 16-year high of 5.25% now.

The Zoopla research looked at the average home buyer taking out a 70% loan-to-value mortgage.

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How to get a multi-year Schengen visa on your Indian passport

There's good news for indian passport holders who are planning to visit europe this summer. the eu is easing the schengen visa process for frequent travellers..

Listen to Story

• Visiting Europe is getting easier for Indian passport holders
• A new 'cascade' visa scheme will allow frequent travellers to get a multi-year multiple-entry Schengen visa
• However, you need to meet certain criteria to be able to apply for this 'cascade' visa

There's good news for Indian passport holders who want to visit Europe this year on. The European Union is looking to ease Schengen visa processes for Indian tourists.

European Union adopts more favourable Schengen visa rules for Indians

Indian Nationals can now apply for a multiple entry Schengen visa with longer validity

On 18 April 2024, the European Commission adopted specific rules on the issuing of multiple entry visas to Indian nationals, which are more favourable than the standard rules of the Visa Code that applied to date. This new visa ‘cascade’ regime for Indian nationals residing in India who apply for Schengen (short-stay) visas in India will provide easier access to visas with multi-year validity for travellers with an established travel history, if the passport validity allows. 

According to the newly adopted visa “cascade” regime for India, Indian nationals can now be issued long-term, multi-entry Schengen visas valid for two years after having obtained and lawfully used two visas within the previous three years. The two-year visa will normally be followed by a five-year visa, if the passport has sufficient validity remaining. During the validity period of these visas, holders enjoy travel rights equivalent to visa-free nationals.

This decision comes in the context of strengthened relations under the EU-India Common Agenda on Migration and Mobility, which seeks comprehensive cooperation on migration policy between the EU and India, with facilitation of people-to-people contacts being of key aspect due to the importance of India as a partner for the EU. 

Schengen visas allow the holder to travel freely in the Schengen area for short stays of a maximum of 90 days in any 180-day period. The visas are not purpose-bound, but they do not grant the right to work. The Schengen area consists of 29 European countries (of which 25 are EU states): Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Greece, Spain, France, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Hungary, Malta, Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, Finland and Sweden, along with Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
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Warnings and insurance

Before you travel .

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About FCDO travel advice

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