In 2027, the UK plans to return to the Erasmus+ programme — moreover, it will make entry conditions more convenient for foreign participants!
For students from the EU and EEA who choose programs lasting up to 6 months, it will be enough to obtain a Standard Visitor visa or an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). More complex and expensive visas (for example, the Government Authorised Exchange visa) will not be needed in this case. The ETA is issued in literally a few days (within a week), online, and costs only £20.
In addition to citizens of the EU and EEA, citizens of Brazil, the USA, Canada, Japan, and South Korea will also get the right to enter the country with an ETA.
This will make Erasmus+ in the UK more attractive courses for international students, reducing the administrative burden on educational institutions. The simplicity of the process will allow for more active development of short combined programs: for example, combining English language study with internships, retraining, professional development (say, work placements), teacher preparation, and sports organizations will have more offers for coaching activities.
In addition, the visa categories for children and students have been adjusted: Erasmus+ participants will be able to study at RQF level 2 and above, even if the program does not involve obtaining a qualification that is officially recognized under the relevant route. Sponsor requirements have also been eased in cases where the Erasmus+ program includes work placement.