By Miglena Ilieva, Managing Partner of ILEX Law Group, a law firm specialising in UK and Irish immigration law

With increasingly dynamic trade relations between Bulgaria, the EU and the UK, the topic of short-term business and professional visits is more relevant than ever. Whether it concerns truck drivers, professionals on assignment or participants in trade negotiations – it is essential to understand what is permitted under UK immigration rules.

Visit visas for third-country nationals: What is allowed?

Nationals of countries such as Turkey and Ukraine, which are not part of the EU, must apply in advance for a Standard Visitor visa when travelling to the UK. This visa is typically issued for up to 6 months and allows for specific types of professional activities without the need for a work visa.

Permitted activities include:

  • Attending business meetings, conferences, and contract negotiations;
  • Inspections of goods and services, including checking equipment and facilities;
  • Participation in training sessions, short-term courses, and internal company briefings;
  • Heavy goods vehicle (HGV) drivers transporting international freight to or through the UK may enter on a visit visa if they are:
    • employed by a company established outside the UK;
    • carrying out international deliveries or transiting through the UK;
    • not residing in or working for a UK employer.

This is particularly important for the logistics sector, as drivers performing international haulage are not considered employed in the UK and are therefore not in breach of visa conditions.

Additional examples:

  • Technical specialists may enter to install or repair equipment when this is part of a purchase contract;
  • Consultants may provide internal training or analysis for their overseas clients, under certain conditions.

ETA for EU Citizens – simple, but important

EU citizens, including Bulgarians, do not need a visa for short stays in the UK, but as of April 2025 they are required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travelling.

When is ETA required?

  • For all short visits of up to 6 months (tourism, business, training, etc.);
  • When arriving by air or sea – even in transit;
  • ETA applications are submitted online and are valid for two years or until the passport expires.

What to keep in mind:

  • The form is completed online and requires a passport, personal details, and a brief explanation of the travel purpose;
  • It is usually approved within 1 to 3 days;
  • Applications must be submitted on time, as boarding will be denied without an approved ETA.

Visit visas allow for a broad range of professional activities – including international transport, technical support, business visits, and short training programmes. EU citizens benefit from the simplified ETA process, provided all requirements are met accurately.

Although the rules for short-term visits and professional activities in the UK may seem clear at first glance, in practice there are often grey areas where the line between “permitted” and “prohibited” is not so obvious. Seeking advice from an experienced immigration lawyer can help avoid entry refusals, future complications, or even travel bans. If you or your business are planning travel to the UK for professional purposes – it is always best to seek legal advice in advance.

Looking to for assistance with sending personnel to the UK or Ireland? Get in touch with Miglena at miglena.ilieva@ilexlg.com.

Correct as of 22 July 2025.