English UK secures Erasmus+ visa win for members

Most Erasmus+ participants will now be able to come to the UK using a visitor visa or Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), making it easier for members to offer work shadowing, training and other Erasmus+ programmes.

The Government has announced changes to the Immigration Rules that mean most EU and EEA participants on Erasmus+ programmes of up to six months will be able to travel to the UK using an ETA rather than applying for a visa.

Level playing field for UK providers

Huan Japes, English UK's membership director said:

"This is brilliant news. We have been lobbying for this since the Government announced that the UK would rejoin Erasmus+.

We wanted to make it as easy as possible for our members to offer the full range of Erasmus+ programmes and to attract participants without unnecessary paperwork.

There is a lot of interest among members in offering Erasmus+ programmes, and these changes will help create a level playing field with providers in Ireland and across the EU."

English UK raised the issue with the government following confirmation that the UK would rejoin Erasmus+, highlighting the need for a simple route for participants undertaking short-term study, training and work-shadowing activities.

Rule changes in detail

Erasmus+ participants will be able to take courses, receive or give training, undertake traineeships and, for sports organisations, undertake coaching and training assignments.
Child and student visa routes have been amended so that Erasmus+ participants can study at RQF level 2 and above without working towards an approved qualification.
Sponsor requirements have been relaxed where an Erasmus + programme includes a work placement.

We expect further details about Erasmus+ funding in the coming weeks and will share these with members as soon as possible so they can finalise their plans for 2027.