UK Erasmus+ visa routes: what students, trainees and visitors need to know
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The UK’s Erasmus+ immigration rules changed on 8 October 2026. The changes make it possible for eligible Erasmus+ project participants to come to the UK for specified activities, but there is no single “Erasmus visa”. The right permission depends on what you will do, how long you will stay, your age and your nationality.
What changed on 8 October?
Updated Home Office guidance now sets out how Erasmus+ participants can use existing UK immigration routes. The rules apply to people genuinely taking part in an eligible project or mobility activity; they do not create an unrestricted right to work or study in the UK. For under-18s undertaking a traineeship or job-shadowing visit, the rules include additional safeguards, including permission from a parent or legal guardian and the participant’s home institution.
Which UK route may apply?
Standard Visitor: Some short activities may fit the Visitor route, including study at an accredited institution, exchanges, workshops, training, job shadowing and certain short traineeships. A visit can last up to six months where the Visitor rules allow it. If your nationality requires an electronic travel authorisation (ETA), you normally need one before travel as well as meeting the Visitor requirements. An ETA is not a visa and does not guarantee entry.
Temporary Work – Government Authorised Exchange: This route may suit eligible traineeships and some staff teaching, training or research activities. It requires a Certificate of Sponsorship from an approved scheme operator; the Home Office identifies IRARA Citizen Services for the Erasmus+ scheme. Do not travel assuming that an Erasmus+ placement itself is permission to work.
Student or Child Student: If your activity is a longer course of study, a Student route may be needed. The UK education provider must be licensed to sponsor students and issue a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS). Eligible applicants under 18 may need the Child Student route. Some courses lasting under six months may instead be possible as a Visitor, depending on the course and provider.
Who can participate, and when?
Immigration permission and Erasmus+ selection are separate checks. The UK and EU have agreed to associate the UK with Erasmus+ for the 2027 programme year. UK organisations are expected to apply for funded projects through the 2027 call; individual opportunities depend on organisations’ projects and selection processes. The European Commission says those project opportunities are expected to begin in the second half of 2027 at the earliest. Participation rules vary by country and action, so do not assume every activity is open to every nationality.
For a general overview of Erasmus Mundus scholarships and applications, see our Erasmus scholarship application guide. That guide concerns funding applications; it does not determine which UK immigration route an Erasmus+ visit requires.
What to check before making plans
- Ask your school, university, employer or project coordinator whether you have been selected for an eligible Erasmus+ activity and who is arranging the placement.
- Confirm the activity, dates, age requirements and host institution. For study, check the provider’s sponsor status and whether it will issue a CAS.
- Use the official visa checker for your nationality and activity. Check whether you need a visa or ETA, and apply for the correct permission before travelling.
- If the participant is under 18, confirm the required parent or guardian and home-institution permissions with the organiser.
Do not book on the assumption that Erasmus+ funding, a university invitation or an ETA automatically grants permission to enter or undertake the planned activity.
Official sources
- UK Home Office: Erasmus+ applicants coming to the UK (guidance published 8 October 2026)
- Statement of Changes HC 584 (relevant rules effective 8 October 2026)
- European Commission: UK association with Erasmus+ in 2027
- European Commission: participation by associated and non-associated countries