The UK Home Office has updated its Visit caseworker guidance and supporting-document guidance on 8 October 2026, introducing and clarifying requirements for people coming to the UK under the Erasmus+ programme.
The updated guidance covers permitted activities, creative activities, work-related training and circumstances where visitors may be caring for relatives.
Erasmus+ Visitors: What Has Changed?
Under the updated Immigration Rules, Erasmus+ participants must meet specific requirements, including:
- Acceptance onto an appropriate course at an eligible participating institution.
- Genuine participation in an Erasmus+ mobility project.
- Compliance with the conditions applicable to their planned activity in the UK.
The correct immigration route can depend on the nature and duration of the Erasmus+ activity. Depending on the circumstances, participants may need to apply under the Standard Visitor, Student/Child Student or Government Authorised Exchange route.
Supporting Documents Updated
The Home Office has also updated its guidance on documents supporting UK Visit visa applications.
Applicants undertaking an Erasmus+ placement may need to provide evidence demonstrating the purpose and details of their placement, depending on their circumstances.
Applicants should ensure that their documents clearly support the activity they intend to undertake in the UK.
UK Visa Statistics
Separately, the Home Office’s September 2026 entry-clearance visa application statistics are scheduled for release on 8 October 2026.
These statistics provide information about people applying to come to the UK for purposes including work, study and family reasons. They are statistical information and do not represent a change to UK visa rules.
What Should Erasmus+ Applicants Do?
Erasmus+ participants planning to travel to the UK should:
- Identify the correct immigration route.
- Check whether their planned activity is permitted.
- Prepare evidence confirming their Erasmus+ placement or programme.
- Review the latest supporting-document requirements before applying.
- Ensure their application accurately reflects the purpose and duration of their stay.
Key Takeaway
Effective date: 8 October 2026
Affected applicants: Erasmus+ students, trainees, youth participants and other eligible participants.
Main update: UK visitor and supporting-document guidance now provides more specific information about Erasmus+ activities and requirements.
The correct visa route depends on the applicant’s activity, duration and individual circumstances.
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If you are considering study, employer sponsorship or skilled migration to the UK, your occupation, experience, visa pathway, location and family circumstances can all affect the available options.
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