Being a business visitor is often far from straightforward, with plenty of rules, regulations and requirements to consider.
What is an ETA?
Since 2024, the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme, has been rolled out to various foreign nationals, becoming applicable to EU nationals from 2 April 2025. It is now a requirement to travel to the UK. It is not a visa. it is permission to travel to the UK.
An ETA currently costs £10 and allows multiple visits to the UK of up to 6 months over a 2-year period, or until the holder’s passport expires – whichever is sooner. An ETA is not a visa, it is a digital permission to travel.
This pre-entry scheme is part of the UK government’s efforts to enhance border security while facilitating smoother entry for eligible travellers.
For business visitors, understanding the ETA scheme is crucial to ensure compliance and avoid disruptions to travel plans.
Who needs an ETA?
The UK ETA is required for nationals from certain countries who previously did not need a visa to enter the UK for short stays. The scheme applies EU and Swiss nationals (from 2 April 2025) and visa-exempt travellers from the USA, Canada and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and other selected nations – see the full list here.
Travellers who need an ETA must obtain approval before boarding their flight, ferry or train to the UK.
The ETA is linked electronically to the traveller’s passport and allows for multiple short visits within its validity period.
What can you do under an ETA?
An ETA does not guarantee entry to the UK. You still need to either:
- see a Border Force officer
- use an ePassport gate
Travellers entering the UK under an ETA can engage in a variety of permitted activities covered in the Immigration Rules. These include:
- Tourism and Leisure: Sightseeing, visiting family and friends
- Short-Term Study: Enrolling in short courses (up to six months long) that do not involve work placements
- Business Visits: Attending meetings, conferences, interviews, and training sessions
- Medical Treatment: Receiving private medical care, subject to conditions
What you cannot do under an ETA?
Holders of an ETA cannot:
- Work or Take Up Employment: Engaging in paid or unpaid work in the UK is prohibited
- Live in the UK: The ETA is not a pathway to residency
- Study Long-Term: Degree-level or long-term courses require a separate visa
- Claim Public Funds: ETA holders are not entitled to public benefits
Business visitors and the ETA – What you need to know
Business visitors play a significant role in UK trade and international collaboration. Under the ETA, business visitors can engage in certain activities, but they must comply with UK Standard Visitor Visa rules.
Restrictions for business visitors:
While business visitors can undertake the activities permitted by the Rules, there are strict limitations, and it is important that they – and their employers – understand what they can do.
Business visitors should ensure they fully understand the limitations to avoid visa violations or entry refusals.
Standard Visitor visa vs. ETA: Which one do you need?
The Standard Visitor Visa is still required for those business travellers who are not now required to obtain an ETA.
Applying for an ETA
The ETA application is a straightforward online process that typically requires:
- A valid passport from an eligible country
- Travel details, including intended entry dates
- A small application fee (to be confirmed by UK authorities)
- A short security and eligibility questionnaire
Applications are usually processed quickly, often within 48 to 72 hours, but travellers are advised to apply well in advance of their travel date.
Final thoughts
The UK ETA introduces a streamlined approach for business visitors from visa-exempt countries, but travellers must ensure they comply with the permitted activities. Those requiring broader business-related permissions should consider whether they will need a work visa instead.
Contact Us
For more tailored guidance on UK business immigration, compliance or visa requirements, consulting our Business Immigration Team can help you navigate complex cases and avoid legal pitfalls. Contact us now to discuss your requirements.
