From 8 October 2026 Poles participating in the EU’s Erasmus+ scheme can enter the United Kingdom under a revamped standard-visitor framework that allows study, workshops and even short work placements of up to six months at state schools, academies and accredited organisations. The changes, laid before the UK Parliament in a Statement of Changes to the Immigration Rules, also permit UK state schools to hold sponsor licences specifically for Erasmus+ participants. For Polish universities and vocational colleges this restores a mobility corridor largely closed since Brexit, when UK visitor rules limited study to 30 days and barred attendance at state-funded institutions. The new provisions mean a Polish secondary-school pupil can now spend a full term at a British academy without obtaining a student visa, provided the placement is organised under Erasmus+ and the host holds the relevant licence. Corporate mobility programmes likewise benefit: the Government Authorised Exchange (GAE) route now includes a sub-scheme for Erasmus+, allowing Polish apprentices to undertake supernumerary internships in UK firms without the heavy sponsorship formalities of the Skilled Worker route. However, the visitor status still prohibits paid work beyond reasonable expenses, so HR teams must ensure stipend structures comply. Travel compliance remains essential. Polish nationals continue to use passport-free e-gates but must carry acceptance letters and proof of Erasmus+ funding to present at UK border checks. Universities should update acceptance packs and pre-departure briefings accordingly. Failure to produce documentation could result in refusal of entry or a curtailed stay. The Home Office has staggered go-live dates for different rule sets—Erasmus+ visitor activities start immediately, while certain student-route amendments commence on 29 October. Polish institutions should therefore review programme calendars to align arrivals with the correct rule phase.
