UK Leave to Enter Explained

Leave to enter is permission granted by UK immigration authorities for a non-British national to enter the country. It applies to individuals who require a visa to enter the UK, as well as those subject to border controls even if they do not need a visa. Leave to enter is typically granted for specific purposes, such as work, study, family visits or tourism, and sets out the conditions under which an individual may enter and remain in the UK temporarily.

Applications for leave to enter must meet the eligibility requirements of the specific visa category being applied for. For example, a Skilled Worker visa applicant must demonstrate they have a valid job offer from a UK-based sponsor and meet the required salary thresholds. At the border, individuals may need to show their passport, visa and other supporting documents to confirm their identity and the purpose of their visit.

The following guide looks specifically at leave to enter; what this means, what it allows, how long it lasts and how to apply. We also look at how leave to enter compares with other types of UK immigration status.

 

What is leave to enter for the UK?

 

In the UK, there are various official terms used to refer to different types of immigration permission and status. Common terms include leave to enter, leave to remain, entry clearance, further leave to remain and indefinite leave to remain.

Leave to enter is the permission granted to an individual at the border to enter and remain in the UK, where the individual is neither a British citizen, an Irish citizen, nor has UK right of abode.

Under Part 1 of the UK”s Immigration Rules, provision is made for “Leave to enter the United Kingdom” where a person who is neither a British nor Commonwealth citizen with the right of abode, nor a person who is entitled to enter or remain in the UK by virtue of section 3ZA of the Immigration Act 1971 (most Irish citizens), requires leave to enter.

The provisions under the Immigration Rules go on to provide that when admitting to the UK a person subject to immigration control under that 1971 Act, an immigration officer may give leave to enter for a limited period and may impose a number of conditions. The phrase “leave to enter” is therefore typically associated with the permission granted at a UK port-of-entry by a Border Force officer, although it can also be used to describe permission granted following an application for entry clearance made in advance of travel to the Home Office department responsible for the issuance of visas, UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).

For example, where a person is granted a visit visa by UKVI, they may be treated as having been granted leave to enter the UK on an unlimited number of occasions, provided certain conditions are met. These conditions include that the entry clearance must specify the purpose for which the holder wishes to enter the UK, and be endorsed with the conditions to which it is subject or a statement that it is to have effect as indefinite leave to enter.

 

What does leave to enter allow?

 

The provisions under Part 1 of the Rules go on to provide that when admitting to the UK a person subject to immigration control under the 1971 Act, an immigration officer may give leave to enter for a limited period and may impose a number of conditions including:

 

• a condition restricting employment or occupation in the UK
• a condition requiring the person to maintain and accommodate themselves, and any dependants accompanying them, without recourse to public funds
• a condition requiring the person to register with the police
• a condition restricting the person’s studies in the UK
• a condition to report to the appropriate Medical Officer of Environmental Health

 

The time limit and any conditions attached will usually be made known to the person granted leave to enter by either written notice given to them or endorsed in the person’s passport or travel document. Importantly, under the 1971 Act, it is an offence knowingly to remain beyond the time limit or fail to comply with any condition or requirement imposed.

 

How long is leave to enter valid for?

 

If someone has been granted leave to enter as a visitor in advance of travel to the UK, on each occasion the visa-holder arrives in the UK, they should usually be treated by immigration officials as having been granted, before arrival, leave to enter for a limited period beginning on the date of arrival. This will be 6 months (if at least 6 months remains of the visa’s validity) or the visa’s remaining validity period (if less than 6 months is left).

However, if a person is applying for leave to enter on arrival at a UK port-of-entry, the period of leave will depend on the reason given for that person’s visit and will be at the discretion of Border Force officials making this decision. In order to determine whether or not to give leave to enter and, if so, for what period and subject to what conditions, an immigration officer may seek such information, and the production of such documents or copy documents, to demonstrate the purpose of the person’s visit. An immigration officer may also require the person seeking leave to supply an up-to-date medical report.

Importantly, immigration officers at the border have the power to refuse leave to enter, where failure by a person seeking leave to supply any information, (copy) documents or medical report requested by an immigration officer shall be a ground, of itself, for refusal of leave. Immigration officials also have the power to cancel leave to enter granted in advance of travel. This could be where, for example, it is suspected that a visa-holder is seeking to enter the UK for a purpose other than the purpose specified in the entry clearance.

 

When can leave to enter be granted?

 

Not all overseas nationals subject to immigration control will require a visa in advance of travel to visit the UK, where most non-visa nationals can currently travel visa-free, although they will still need to apply for leave to enter on arrival at a UK port-of-entry. Leave to enter the UK as a visitor means leave to enter under the visitor rules for a period not exceeding 6 months, subject to conditions prohibiting employment and recourse to public funds. However, a non-visa national who wants to come to the UK for any purpose other than as a visitor seeking entry for 6 months or less will need to apply for a visa in advance.

It is also worth noting that the position as regards no prior permission to travel to the UK for persons who require leave to enter is changing with the staged introduction of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) regime in the UK. Citizens of Qatar travelling to the UK must already have an ETA, with other nationalities being added in early 2024, including nationals of Bahrain, Jordan, Oman, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

The plan is for all non-visa nationalities to be added to the ETA scheme by the end of 2024 as part of the government’s plans to fully digitalise UK borders and improve border security by 2025, providing more information about non-visa visitors, although there is currently no date for when this will take effect for nationals of other countries potentially within scope.

Once in force for any given nationality, the ETA scheme will create a requirement for those who need leave to enter, but do not have it, and who did not previously require an entry clearance, to obtain an electronic authorisation in advance of travel. It will apply to visitors, including transit visitors, as well as to persons coming for a short stay in the UK as a Creative Worker. Importantly, however, a person will not need an ETA if they have either:

 

• a British or Irish passport
• permission to live, work and/or study in the UK
• a valid visa to be able to enter the UK.

 

For anyone legally resident in Ireland but who are not Irish citizens, they will also not need an ETA, provided they will be entering the UK from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey or the Isle of Man. These individuals will be able to prove they live in Ireland using a number of different documents, including an Irish Residence Permit or an Irish driving licence, so long as the document is an original, issued by the Irish government and valid at the time of travel.

 

Is leave to enter different to leave to remain?

 

Leave to enter and leave to remain are distinct concepts under UK immigration law, although they are closely related. Both refer to permissions granted by UKVI, but they apply at different stages of a person’s journey through the UK immigration system.

Leave to enter refers to permission granted to a non-British national to enter the UK. It is usually issued before travel, as part of a visa application process, or at the border for visa-exempt nationals. Leave to enter specifies the conditions under which an individual can enter and remain in the UK temporarily, such as for work, study, tourism or to visit family. It is typically granted for a fixed period and may include restrictions, such as prohibiting work or claiming public funds.

Leave to remain, on the other hand, refers to permission granted to a non-British national to stay in the UK after entry. This is applied for while the individual is already in the UK, either to extend their stay or to switch to a different visa category. Leave to remain enables individuals to continue their stay in the UK, either temporarily (Limited Leave to Remain) or permanently (Indefinite Leave to Remain).

The primary difference therefore lies in the stage of the immigration process; leave to enter applies to the right to enter the UK, while leave to remain relates to the right to continue staying in the UK after entry. Leave to enter is typically granted outside the UK or at the border, while leave to remain is applied for and granted within the UK. The processes and eligibility criteria for each differ, and individuals must ensure they comply with the relevant requirements to maintain their immigration status.

 

Is leave to enter the same as a visa?

 

Leave to enter is not usually the term used to describe a visa, although this phrase can be used to describe the permission granted by UKVI following an application for entry clearance, so on an application for a visa. However, the expression leave to enter is typically used to describe where permission is given by immigration officials to those currently entitled to travel visa-free on their arrival at a UK port-of-entry. Soon, these individuals will need to apply for a UK ETA, rather than travelling to the UK without advance authorisation.

The UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system is a new pre-entry requirement introduced as part of the government’s post-Brexit border control measures. The system is designed to enhance security and streamline the process for individuals travelling to the UK from visa-exempt countries. It will become mandatory for eligible travellers starting in 2024, with full implementation expected in 2025.

Under the ETA system, individuals who previously did not require a visa to enter the UK—such as tourists or short-term visitors from non-visa countries—must obtain an electronic travel authorisation before arriving. This authorisation is linked to the traveller’s passport and is checked electronically by carriers before boarding, as well as by border control upon arrival.

For the purposes of Leave to Enter, the ETA acts as a form of pre-clearance. While it does not replace visas for individuals who require them, it ensures that travellers meet entry requirements before arriving in the UK. The system assesses eligibility, including any security or immigration risks, and provides a streamlined process for compliant travellers.

Travellers who fail to secure an ETA may be denied boarding or entry to the UK. For visa-exempt nationals, this requirement represents an additional layer of regulation, reinforcing the UK’s efforts to manage immigration and border security effectively.

 

How do you apply for UK leave to enter?

 

To apply for leave to enter, an eligible overseas national will simply travel to the UK and present at a UK port-of-entry, although they will need a valid passport or other travel document to prove their identity and nationality both prior to travel and on arrival. A decision will then be made by immigration officials whether to grant leave to enter.

However, even if a person is eligible to travel visa-free, this does not guarantee entry to the UK, where they may still be refused permission to enter if Border Force officials are not satisfied that their intentions are genuine or that they meet the relevant requirements under the visitor rules. It is therefore important for travellers to carry with them sufficient documentation to be able to satisfy officials of the purpose of the trip. Additionally, they should have proof of where they will be staying in the UK, the funds available to them to support themselves, as well as evidence of their return flight or onward journey.

 

How do you apply for a UK ETA?

 

Once the ETA system comes into force for those coming to visit the UK for the purposes of business or pleasure, or for other permissible reasons, these individuals will need to apply in advance for an ETA using either the UK ETA app or the online application link on the official ETA UK website. Each traveller must get their own ETA, including children and babies, at a cost of £10 per person, although adults can apply on behalf of family members.

Once an ETA application has been submitted, a decision should be made within 48 to 72 hours although, in some cases, it may take longer if further background and other checks are needed. As such, in cases where the ETA requirements apply to an individual, they are advised not to book any travel to the UK before they have been granted authorisation.

If an application is approved, email confirmation will be sent to the applicant. The successful ETA will then be linked electronically to the passport that the person applied with, where Border Force officials will be able to check their valid authorisation on arrival in the UK. If an ETA application is denied, the individual will not be entitled to travel to the UK without first applying and being approved by UKVI for a suitable visa in advance.

For approved applicants, an ETA will last for up to 2 years or upon expiry of that person’s passport, whichever is sooner. During this time, the ETA-holder will be able to travel to the UK multiple times, although immigration officials can still refuse permission on arrival if it is suspected that a person is seeking to enter the UK for a purpose other than the purpose permitted under the rules. An ETA will also not replace the requirement for a visa where one is needed, for example, for the purposes of paid employment or long-term study.

 

Need assistance?

 

DavidsonMorris are UK immigration specialists. For expert guidance on your options to travel to, or remain in, the UK, contact us.

 

Leave to enter FAQs

 

What is Leave to Enter?

Leave to enter is permission granted by UK immigration authorities allowing a non-British national to enter the UK for a specific purpose, such as work, study, or tourism.

 

Who needs Leave to Enter?

Most non-British nationals require leave to enter, either through a visa issued before travel or granted at the UK border. Nationals of certain countries may not need a visa but must still meet entry requirements.

 

How do I apply for Leave to Enter?

You must apply online for a visa specific to your purpose of travel. The application process involves submitting your passport, supporting documents, and paying the required fee.

 

Can Leave to Enter be refused?

Leave to enter can be refused if the applicant fails to meet visa requirements, provides false information, or is deemed a risk to UK security.

 

What documents are required at the border?

You may need to present your passport, visa, travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, and evidence of sufficient funds to support your stay.

 

How long is Leave to Enter valid?

The duration of leave to enter depends on the visa type. For instance, a visitor visa usually allows a stay of up to six months, while work or study visas may permit longer periods.

 

Can I extend my stay after entering the UK?

Some visa categories allow you to apply for an extension or switch to another visa type while in the UK, provided you meet the eligibility requirements.

 

What happens if I breach the conditions of Leave to Enter?

Breaching conditions, such as working when not permitted or overstaying, can result in penalties, including deportation or a ban on re-entry to the UK.

 

Do children need Leave to Enter?

Children who are non-British nationals also require leave to enter. Their application is typically linked to a parent or guardian’s visa.

Glossary

 

Term	Definition
Leave to Enter	Permission granted by UK immigration authorities for a non-British national to enter the UK for a specific purpose.
Visa	Official authorisation allowing a person to travel to and enter the UK under certain conditions and for a specific period.
Non-Visa Nationals	Individuals from countries that do not require a visa for short visits to the UK but still need to meet entry requirements at the border.
Immigration Rules	Legal framework set by the UK government outlining the requirements and conditions for entry, stay, and work in the UK.
Border Control	Checks conducted by UK immigration officers at ports of entry to confirm an individual’s identity, purpose of visit, and eligibility to enter.
Supporting Documents	Evidence required to support an application for Leave to Enter, such as passport, financial proof, and travel itinerary.
Overstay	Remaining in the UK beyond the validity of Leave to Enter or a visa without legal permission.
Immigration Officer	An official responsible for assessing entry applications at the UK border and ensuring compliance with immigration rules.
Switching Visa	The process of changing from one visa category to another while in the UK, subject to eligibility and conditions.
Extension	An application to extend the duration of Leave to Enter or remain in the UK beyond the initial grant.
Conditions of Entry	Specific rules attached to Leave to Enter, such as restrictions on work, study, or access to public funds.
Entry Clearance	A visa or permission obtained before travelling to the UK, often referred to as Leave to Enter upon arrival.
Biometric Information	Fingerprints and a photograph collected during the visa application process to confirm the applicant’s identity.
Deportation	The formal removal of an individual from the UK for breaching immigration rules or committing a criminal offence.
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)	A fee paid by visa applicants to access the UK’s National Health Service during their stay.