Immigration & Business Travel
Navigating immigration and visa requirements is a key part of doing business across borders. To support the broader US/UK business community, we’ve curated a selection of trusted resources and programs designed to simplify the process and keep you informed. Below, you’ll find helpful information on our exclusive BABC J-1 Visa Program, as well as essential guidance for UK and U.S. travel, including the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system and broader UK visa resources.
Quick Links
UK ETA
Find out whether you need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before traveling to the United Kingdom and how to apply. If you are travelling to or through the UK, chances are you do.Do I Need a UK Visa?
Use the official UK Government visa checker to determine whether you need a visa based on your nationality and reason for travel.Business Visitors
Understand what business activities you can undertake while visiting the UK, including meetings, conferences, negotiations, and other permitted activities.Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
U.S. citizens traveling to or living in the UK can enroll in STEP to receive security updates and help the U.S. Embassy contact them during an emergency. Enrollment is free.
ESTA: Electronic System for Travel Authorization
Traveling to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program? Find out whether you’re eligible and apply for an ESTA before your trip.Do I Need a U.S. Visa?
Not sure which visa you need? Use the U.S. Department of State’s Visa Wizard to find the appropriate visa category based on your reason for travel.U.S. Entry & Travel Requirements
Prepare for your trip with official guidance on entering the United States, including international arrival requirements, customs, and what to expect at the border.Global Entry
Travel to the U.S. frequently? Eligible UK citizens can apply for Global Entry for expedited clearance when arriving in the United States.
BABC J-1 Visa Program
Looking to bring emerging talent from the UK to the United States? The BABC J-1 Visa Program supports eligible exchange visitors and host companies with temporary training and internship opportunities.Working in the UK
Planning to work in the United Kingdom? Explore official UK Government guidance on work visa routes, eligibility requirements, and the application process.Hiring & Sponsoring Workers in the UK
Hiring international talent in the UK? Find official guidance for employers on sponsor licences, worker sponsorship, and employer responsibilities.Working & Hiring in the U.S.
Explore official U.S. Government resources for employment authorization and for employers hiring foreign workers in the United States.Join the Largest Transatlantic Network
BABC membership connects you with a transatlantic business community that includes immigration attorneys and other professionals experienced in cross-border employment, mobility, and international business.
When questions become specific to your company or situation, your BABC network has the contacts with the right expertise.
Already a member? Contact the BABC team to connect with a member resource.
BABC J1 Program
The British American Business Council of Greater Philadelphia is proud to offer an exclusive J-1 visa program for members through our partnership with CENET, a trusted nonprofit and official U.S. Department of State sponsor of BridgeUSA programs. Designed to promote mutual understanding between the United States and other countries, this program enables international professionals to gain meaningful, hands-on experience in the U.S. through opportunities such as the Research Scholar program (up to five years) and the Specialist program (up to 12 months). Through CENET’s cost-effective and streamlined services, BABC members can easily host global talent, foster cross-border collaboration, and strengthen transatlantic business relationships.
Please contact Mackenzie Sutton for more information at msutton@babcphl.com
Starting January 8, 2025, U.S. citizens and all foreign visitors traveling to the United Kingdom for short visits, tourism, or business, including those just passing through UK airports, will need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) if they do not have a UK visa or legal residency in the UK or the Republic of Ireland. This requirement applies to all parts of the UK, including Northern Ireland and British Overseas Territories. The ETA is similar to the U.S. ESTA system and acts as a pre-clearance for travel. This change is part of the UK’s move towards a digital border system.
An Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA):
- May take up to three working days to process.
- Costs £16 ($21.20).
- Is required for travelers of all ages.
- Is valid for two years or the remaining period of validity on a passport, whichever is shorter; and
- Does not require travel details.
One does not need an ETA if they already have a visa, an exempt vignette, or have a British or Irish passport. Other nationalities that ordinarily require a visa to visit the UK will continue to do so and should not obtain an ETA.
Apply for an ETA on the app named “UK ETA”, linked for apple users here.
For more information, to confirm the most up to date information, and apply online, press here.
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