The United Kingdom's immigration system categorises visitors into four categories:
- Standard Visitors (including business activities)
- Permitted Paid Engagement Visitors
- Marriage/Civil Partnership Visitors (not to be confused with Marriage/Partner visas for those married to someone settled inside the UK)
- Transit Visas
Today we will focus on the most popular visitor visa, and one which tourists and business visitors would enter the UK on. Please note that the Home Office expects all non-British or Irish visitors to now obtain approval before visiting (this can include either Electronic Travel Authorisation for some nationalities or submitting a visitor visa application which applies to most nationalities).
Please note that this excludes those that hold UK visas or have an exemption from applying such as a diplomat.
How Do I Know Which I Need to Apply For?
The Home Office keeps a list of nationalities that are required to apply for a visitor visa before travelling, and you should always check this list before you finalise a trip to the UK.
Nationals of the USA, Canada, EEA countries including Switzerland, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, some Middle Eastern and South American countries (also some special regions such as Hong Kong or Taiwanese passport holders are also exempt).
The most common countries to require visitor visas include India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, China, Nigeria, Ghana and South Africa.
What is Allowed
Permissible activities on a Standard Visitor Visa include:
- Tourism
- Visiting family or friends
- Attending business meetings or conferences
- Negotiating and signing contracts or deals
- Participating in trade fairs and exhibitions (provided no direct sales occur)
- Conducting site visits and inspections
- Delivering or attending training sessions or workshops (provided you are not paid by a UK company)
- Speaking at conferences or seminars (without receiving payment from a UK organisation)
- Enrolling in short-term educational courses (maximum 30 days)
- Undertaking limited volunteer work (up to 30 days with a registered charity)
- Receiving private medical treatment
What is Prohibited
Activities explicitly prohibited on a Standard Visitor Visa include:
- Engaging in paid or unpaid employment
- Accessing public funds
- Enrolling in long-term studies
- Marrying or registering a civil partnership without the appropriate visa
- Direct selling of goods or services to the public
EU Nationals
EU nationals currently benefit from visa exemptions when visiting the UK. They are allowed visa-free entry for tourism, visiting friends and family, or short-term business activities for stays of up to six months.
However, this visa-free entry does not permit EU citizens to work or engage in employment with UK-based employers unless specifically allowed under a Permitted Paid Engagement (limited to one month).
Non-EU Nationals and Schengen Visas
A common misconception is that non-EU nationals holding a Schengen visa can use it to enter the UK directly from an EU country.
This is not permitted. The UK does not recognise Schengen visas, and non-EU nationals must apply separately for a UK Standard Visitor Visa or hold a visa exemption based on their nationality to enter the UK, regardless of their entry point within the EU.
Can I Respond to Work Emails and Calls?
Visitors may respond to work-related emails and calls, provided these activities do not constitute formal employment within the UK.
Engaging in remote working activities, such as responding to emails or participating in calls with employers or clients outside the UK, is allowed.
However, visitors must ensure they are not undertaking employment activities or providing services directly to UK-based clients or businesses.
What if My Plans Change? Can I Come as a Visitor and Visit the Sites?
If your initial travel plans change, you can still visit the UK to engage in permissible activities such as sightseeing, tourism, and visiting historical or cultural landmarks.
The Home Secretary isn't going to stop you from visiting Westminster Abbey after attending a business meeting, but the activities undertaken must remain those allowed under the Standard Visitor rules.
Ensure you clearly communicate your revised intentions at the point of entry, as Border Force Officers may inquire about the purpose of your visit.
Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)
From 2024 onwards, the UK has slowly introduced an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system. Visitors from countries currently benefiting from visa-free travel to the UK, including EEA nationals, will need to apply for and obtain an ETA before travelling.
The ETA will provide a quick and efficient pre-screening process, enhancing border security while facilitating legitimate travel. Travellers must ensure they apply online prior to their arrival in the UK.
Conclusion
Understanding and adhering to the Standard Visitor Visa guidelines ensures a smooth and enjoyable stay in the UK. EU nationals benefit from visa-free flexibility, whereas non-EU nationals must remain mindful of distinct entry requirements.
Clarifying your intended activities prior to travel can help avoid unnecessary complications, ensuring compliance and a rewarding experience in the UK.
Also remember that ETA approval does not guarantee your entry into the UK, the Border Force Officer will consider all things including your compliance with the rules.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.
