Working in the UK with an ETA: mistakes to avoid and recognized solutions
1. Can you legally work in the UK with an ETA?
The UK ETA is a travel authorization intended for short-term stays only for:
- Tourism
- Family or friendly visit
- Business meetings (unpaid)
- Transit
Working for pay, even temporarily, is strictly prohibited with an ETA.
2. What are the risks if you work with an ETA?
If you carry out a professional activity with an ETA, you are exposed to:
- Refusal of entry at the border
- Immediate cancellation of your ETA
- A ban on entering the country for several years
- Registration in the British immigration system
Even volunteer work or unpaid internships can be problematic if not covered by an appropriate visa.
3. What are the official alternatives for working in the UK?
If you want to work, you must obtain a work visa issued by the British government . Here are the most common ones:
- Skilled Worker Visa
- Graduate Visa
- Global Talent Visa
- Health and Care Worker Visa
These steps are carried out directly on the official website: gov.uk
4. How to travel legally for business with an ETA?
The ETA allows certain unpaid professional reasons:
- Participation in meetings or conferences
- Visits from customers or prospects
- Contract negotiation
- But without salaried employment or direct commercial activity .
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it legal to do a student job with an ETA?
No. Even a part-time job is prohibited without a work visa.
Can I volunteer with an ETA?
Only if the activity is occasional and unpaid, within certain authorized frameworks. It is best to check with the British government website.
How do I know if my job requires a visa?
Check out the list of jobs eligible for the Skilled Worker visa.
Can I have a job interview with an ETA?
Yes, but you cannot sign a contract or start work without the appropriate visa.
Do I have to leave the UK to apply for a work visa?
Yes. You must be outside of UK territory to apply for a work visa.
6. Additional articles:
To clearly distinguish between “short-term business” and paid employment.
Business Travel with ETA: Authorized Activities – What is allowed on a business trip.
UK ETA Definition 2025 – Accepted Reasons and Limitations.
UK ETA: multiple entries and successive returns – Frequency of stays and risks of abuse.
After approval: arrival steps – Agent checks and questions.
For a quick and secure ETA process
The website visaeta.com offers comprehensive support including:
- Quick and easy form
- Possibility to make multiple requests viathe same form on Visaeta.com
- Manual verification of your information before submission
- Tool for tracking your request
- Responsive support 7 days a week
- Step-by-step support
