What You Have To Know About the United Kingdom Visitor Visa
The UK government has broadened the list of activities allowed as of January 31, 2024, to increase commerce and tourism using the UK visitor visa. Expanding immigration rules would enable visitors to carry out more business-related tasks without needing a work visa while regular employment remains restricted. Working in the UK as a visitor is generally not allowed, except for specific “permitted paid engagements.” Digital nomads, however, do not fall under this category (more on this below).
The expansion is in accord with the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement back in last year’s November, where the government made it clear to expand and simplify the business visitor route to enable businesses to tap into the talent they need.
What Internal Business Operations Will Look Like Now
Employees visiting a UK branch can now directly work with clients; however, they are not confined to just internally. Visiting employees can now do more than just advise and train. They can also assist clients directly, but only if their work matches what the UK branch offers (and if they do not work for their overseas company). Additionally, meeting with clients has to be a smaller part of their main job overseas.
This change removes the previous blanket ban on client-facing work. Thus, it now offers greater flexibility and smoother collaboration within multinational corporations.
Working Remotely from the UK
The UK Home Office has eased restrictions on remote work for visitors. Visitors can do remote work for their overseas jobs, but it cannot be their main reason for coming to the UK. It’s vital to remember this is not a digital nomad visa; it only grants remote work flexibility for short business trips. The primary purpose should not be remote work in the UK; proper work visas are still required for extended work periods.
Permitted Paid Engagement (PPE)
Starting January 31st, 2024, the PPE visa is merging with the standard UK Visitor visa. This simplifies the process by eliminating the need for a separate application. Visitors can now include their pre-arranged PPE activity (to be completed within 30 days) alongside their tourist plans, enjoying a flexible 6-month stay. The key thing to remember is the activity must be relevant to their overseas expertise and declared upfront. While details regarding business verification are still pending official guidance, the change promises easier access and increased flexibility for PPE visitors.
What Does This Mean For Other Professions?
The UK Visitor Visa welcomes distinguished professionals across diverse fields. This includes scientists, researchers, and academics, who can now engage in research activities during their visits. However, this would exclude those on twelve-month visas or requesting extensions within the UK. As legal practitioners, they can participate in more activities, encompassing the provision of expert advice, participation as witnesses, engagement in legal proceedings, and even instruction.
Speakers visiting the UK can now receive remuneration for their presentations. These amendments represent a crucial step towards creating collaboration, knowledge exchange, and professional engagement under the UK Visitor Visa. However, with that said, one must first verify the alignment of intended activities with permitted allowances before embarking on their intended visit.
What Awaits
The UK government has recently updated its business visitor visa rules — allowing more flexibility for business activities while maintaining restrictions on regular employment. This aims to attract international talent and boost business, with further improvements and potential trade-related benefits planned for 2024. Additionally, a new digital permission system (ETA) will require pre-travel authorisation for all visitors, including business travellers, starting in 2024.
You can contact us if you’re looking for more help regarding immigration in the UK.