UK ETA for Digital Nomads: Can You Work Remotely While Visiting the UK?

The rise of remote work has created a new wave of global travelers — digital nomads. Many wonder whether the UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) allows them to live and work temporarily in the United Kingdom while continuing to work online.

If you’re planning to apply for a UK ETA application and want to know whether you can legally work remotely during your visit, here’s everything you need to know.

What Is the UK ETA?

The UK ETA is a digital travel permit that will be mandatory for nationals of visa-exempt countries from 2025. It allows short stays in the UK — up to six months per visit — for purposes such as:

• Tourism

• Visiting family or friends

• Short-term study (under 6 months)

• Business-related activities (meetings, conferences, negotiations)

• Transit through the UK

The application is entirely online, quick to complete, and once approved, the ETA is electronically linked to your passport.

Can Digital Nomads Work Remotely on a UK ETA?

This is the key question — and the answer is: yes, but with conditions.

• The UK ETA does not permit full-time employment or contract work with UK-based companies.

• However, if you are a remote worker or freelancer working online for clients outside the UK, you can continue your activities while visiting.

• For example, if you are a software developer from the US serving American clients, you can work from your laptop in London, Edinburgh, or Manchester without issues.

In short: the UK ETA permits remote work for non-UK companies, but not employment with UK-based employers.

What’s Not Allowed on a UK ETA

To avoid confusion, here are activities not permitted with a UK ETA:

• Taking a full-time or part-time job with a UK company

• Doing paid freelance work for UK clients

• Engaging in long-term study (over 6 months)

• Setting up a business in the UK

If your plan is to work for a UK-based employer or clients, you’ll need to apply for a proper UK work visa instead of relying on the ETA.

Tips for Digital Nomads Visiting the UK

If you’re planning to work remotely during your stay:

• Ensure your ETA is approved before traveling — apply at least one week in advance.

• Carry proof of ongoing employment or contracts with non-UK companies, in case border officers ask.

• Be mindful of the six-month stay limit per visit.

• Remember your ETA remains valid for two years, allowing multiple trips.

How to Apply for a UK ETA

The process is straightforward:

1. Fill in the online UK ETA application form with your passport and personal details.

2. Upload a recent digital passport-style photograph.

3. Answer a few background and travel-related questions.

4. Pay the application fee online by debit or credit card.

5. Receive approval within 48–72 hours, linked directly to your passport.

Final Thoughts

The UK ETA is a convenient travel document for digital nomads who want to explore the UK while continuing remote work for non-UK clients. It does not permit taking up local jobs, but it’s perfect if your income comes from abroad.

If your lifestyle allows you to work from anywhere, the UK ETA opens the door to discovering the UK’s culture, history, and vibrant cities while staying compliant with immigration rules.

You can also check What Happens If Your UK ETA Expires While You’re Traveling?

👉 Start your application today at ETAApplyUK.com and make your UK journey smooth and stress-free.