Short-term visitors from Oman, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates will no longer need visas to enter Britain under plans announced by Home Secretary Theresa May.

Mrs May said passport holders of the three countries will be able to enter the UK visa-free if they have obtained an electronic visa waiver document online at least 48 hours before travelling.

Citizens of the Middle East nations will then have to present the waiver document to an immigration officer on request.

The changes, to come in from January 1, will allow visitors from Oman, Qatar and the UAE to enter the UK without paying a fee, giving biometric data or attending a visa application centre.

Mrs May said she intends to extend the plans to cover Kuwait later next year.

In a written ministerial statement, she said: "Some visitors may still prefer a long-term multi-entry visit visa and the facility to obtain these visas will remain.

"Britain is open for business and genuine visitors and tourists coming here to enjoy our world class attractions, study or do business are always welcome."

The Home Secretary said Vatican City short-term visitors who have service, temporary service and diplomatic passports issued by the Holy See will now also no longer need a visa to enter the UK.

Mrs May said: "Alongside these changes, UK visas and immigration continues to be focused on delivering excellent customer service to business and leisure visitors and ensuring that the UK maintains a competitive visa system that can innovate in order to serve the ever-changing needs of business and ensure Britain succeeds in the global race."

The change follows a 29% rise in visit visas issued to nationals from the Middle East. Globally, visit visas to the UK have increased by 15%, the Home Office said.

Sandie Dawe, chief executive of VisitBritain, said: "Britain is a popular destination for residents of the Gulf states. Last year saw a record 37% increase in the value of Gulf residents' spending in Britain - that's a record average of £3,555 per visitor.

"We know there is already a huge aspiration to travel to Britain to shop and to enjoy our attractions and events, so we're delighted that the recent visa changes will make it easier to get here, and to come more often. If current trends continue, we are set to see another record year for Arab visitors in 2013."