UK Visitor visa route expands for Erasmus+ participants

UK Visitor visa route expands for Erasmus+ participants: what the new Immigration Rules mean

From 8 October 2026, the UK is opening its doors wider to Erasmus+ participants, making it easier for students, trainees and exchange visitors to take part in short-term opportunities with reduced administrative barriers. This change marks a significant step in reconnecting the UK with European educational and cultural exchange networks ahead of its planned full Erasmus+ return in 2027.

What is changing?

Under the updated UK Immigration Rules, Erasmus+ participants will now be able to use several existing visa categories:

• the Visitor visa route for short-term study, training, research and cultural exchange lasting up to 6 months;
• the Student and Child Student routes for longer study placements or school exchanges;
• the Government Authorised Exchange route for structured work experience, internships and training programmes.

Previously, Erasmus+ participants faced more restrictive entry options, often requiring separate arrangements for each type of activity. Now the process is streamlined, allowing more flexibility and less administrative burden.

Who qualifies?

The expansion applies to all Erasmus+ participants, including university students, vocational trainees, school pupils and youth workers, provided their activities fall within the permitted scope of the chosen visa route.

Which activities are allowed?

Depending on the visa route, participants can:

• attend short courses or academic modules;
• undertake work placements or internships;
• join teacher training or youth exchange programmes;
• participate in research collaborations.

Importantly, the Visitor visa route still prohibits paid employment outside the approved programme activities.

The expansion of the Visitor visa route for Erasmus+ participants is a welcome move for students, educators and cultural organisations. It is a step towards rebuilding the bridges that make international learning richer, more diverse and more accessible.

Frequently asked questions

What does Erasmus+ mean and who can participate?

Erasmus+ is the European Union’s programme for education, training, youth and sport activities. Participants can include university students, vocational trainees, school pupils and youth workers taking part in eligible programmes.

When do the new UK Immigration Rules for Erasmus+ participants take effect?

The changes will take effect from 8 October 2026, allowing Erasmus+ participants to use several existing UK immigration routes, depending on the nature and duration of their activities in the UK.

Can Erasmus+ participants use the UK Visitor visa route?

Yes. Erasmus+ participants can use the Visitor visa route for permitted short-term study, training, research and cultural exchange lasting up to six months.

Which UK visa routes are available to Erasmus+ participants?

Depending on their activities, Erasmus+ participants may use the Visitor visa route, Student or Child Student routes or the Government Authorised Exchange route.

Can Erasmus+ participants work in the UK on a Visitor visa?

The Visitor visa route does not permit paid employment outside approved programme activities. Participants should ensure that the immigration route they use permits the activities they intend to undertake in the UK.

For a comprehensive overview of the changes, read our detailed guide to the September 2026 UK Immigration Statement of Changes.

How Gherson can assist

Gherson’s Immigration Team are highly experienced in advising on all UK visa and immigration matters. If you have any questions arising from this article, please do not hesitate to contact us for advice, send us an e-mail, or, alternatively, follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn to stay up to date.

The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position. Gherson accepts no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog. For formal advice on the current law please do not hesitate to contact Gherson. Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Gherson.

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