Performing Arts Employers Associations League Europe (Pearle) advises all artists and cultural professionals travelling to these destinations to stay informed and prepared for the new requirements.
Travelling to the UK: New electronic travel authorisation (ETA) system
The UK is introducing the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system to streamline immigration processes, enhancing border security and efficiency. This system applies to eligible non-visa nationals visiting or transiting through the UK for short stays or working as Creative Workers under specific conditions.
What is an ETA?
An Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a digital travel permission required for specified non-visa nationals, including EU nationals, entering or transiting through the UK. The ETA is electronically linked to passports and allows pre-travel screening, though it does not guarantee entry. Travellers must still obtain permission upon arrival.
Key details:
- Applies to all routes and modes of entry, including the Common Travel Area (CTA).
- Each traveller, including children and infants, must obtain an individual ETA.
- Cost: £10, valid for multiple trips up to six months over two years or until passport expiry.
- Exemptions: British and Irish citizens, and third-country non-visa nationals lawfully resident in Ireland travelling within the CTA.
ETA implementation timeline
- Non-European nationals: Applications open 27 November 2024; travel permitted from 8 January 2025.
- European nationals: Applications open 5 March 2025; ETA required from 2 April 2025.
Application process
Travellers can apply via the UK ETA app or the GOV.UK website, providing:
- Passport and contact details
- A digital photo and responses to security questions
- Payment of the application fee
Processing time: Most applications are processed within three working days, with the possibility of faster processing via the UK ETA app.
Border Control: Holding an ETA does not guarantee entry; border officials retain the right to refuse entry.
If an ETA is denied, applicants will receive reasons for refusal. Appeals are not possible, but a visa application remains an option.
Travelling to the EU: Update on ETIAS and EES
The EU had initially planned to implement the European Entry/Exit System (EES) in Autumn 2024 and the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) in spring/mid-2025. However, these plans have been delayed.
The European Commission now proposes a progressive rollout of the EES, with Member States given six months to deploy it once a start date is confirmed. The ETIAS will follow a few months after the EES becomes operational.
Useful links:
Travelling to the US: O and P Visa processing times
O and P visas are commonly used by artists performing in the USA. However, changes in USCIS procedures have led to significant delays in processing times.
Key updates:
- All O and P visa petitions are now directed to the Texas Service Center before being forwarded to either the California (CSC) or Vermont (VSC) Service Centers.
- Delays: CSC processing times have exceeded seven months, compelling organisations to opt for the costly $2,805 Premium Processing service.
- The League of American Orchestras and Tamizdat have advocated for improvements, and recent data suggest early signs of progress.
Pearle-EFA Publication: The Ultimate Cookbook for Cultural Managers*
Pearle*-Live Performance Europe and the European Festivals Association (EFA) have released a new edition of the Ultimate Cookbook for Cultural Managers, offering insights into immigration and employment rules for third-country national artists working temporarily in the EU.
This guide provides clarity on:
- EU and national-level immigration policies
- Practical steps for touring artists
