If you’re planning a short business trip to the UK (up to 6 months), the UK Business Visit Visa might be the right option for you. This visa allows you to visit the UK for specific unpaid business activities. If you’re planning to stay longer or settle in the UK, you should consider other visa options, such as the Skilled Worker visa. This guide will cover everything you need to know about the UK Business Visit Visa, including its requirements, allowed activities, and how to apply.
What is the UK Business Visit Visa?
The UK Business Visit Visa is part of the Standard Visitor Visa scheme and is for individuals visiting the UK for short-term business activities. You can stay for up to 6 months. However, this visa is only for non-salaried business activities—if you’re planning to work full-time or settle in the UK, a different visa may be more appropriate.
Requirements for the UK Business Visit Visa
Before applying, you should first check if you need a visa to visit the UK. Some nationalities may not need a visa for short visits. To qualify for the Business Visit Visa, you must show that:
- You are genuinely visiting the UK for a permitted business activity.
- You will leave the UK at the end of your visit.
- You will not engage in any prohibited activities.
- You have enough money to cover your stay and your return journey.
- You are not planning to make the UK your permanent home by frequently visiting.
- You don’t have a history of serious criminal activity or immigration violations.
What Activities Are Allowed on a UK Business Visit Visa?
The Business Visit Visa allows you to carry out specific business activities. These are known as “permitted activities” and include:
General Business Activities:
- Attend meetings, conferences, seminars, or interviews.
- Give a short series of talks or speeches (as long as they are not for profit).
- Negotiate and sign contracts.
- Attend trade fairs (only for promotional work, not sales).
- Conduct site visits or inspections.
- Gather information for your overseas job.
- Brief UK clients on requirements (provided the actual work is done outside the UK).
Intra-Corporate Activities:
If you work for a company based overseas, you can:
- Advise or consult with colleagues in the UK.
- Troubleshoot issues or provide internal training.
- Share skills and knowledge with UK-based employees.
- Conduct internal audits at UK offices of the same company.
Manufacturing and Supply:
You can carry out specific activities related to the supply of goods, such as:
- Installing, repairing, or advising on machinery or equipment.
- Providing training for UK-based workers to service these products.
You must have a valid contract between your overseas company and a UK company to use this visa for such activities.
Clients of UK Export Companies:
If you are a client of a UK-based export company, you may visit to oversee the delivery of goods or services under contract. You’ll need to provide proof of the contract for the application.
Other Specific Roles:
Certain overseas roles can use this visa for specific activities, including:
- Translating or interpreting for a company based outside the UK.
- Providing support (like bodyguards or personal assistants) to overseas businesspeople in the UK.
- Tour group couriers, journalists, or archaeologists visiting the UK for short-term tasks.
- Market researchers and analysts working for overseas companies.
What Activities Are Not Allowed on a UK Business Visit Visa?
You cannot:
- Do paid work that is not related to your business activity.
- Stay in the UK for long periods or use this visa for frequent visits.
- Access public funds or benefits.
- Study or enroll in educational programs.
- Marry or form a civil partnership (this requires a separate visa).
How to Apply for a UK Business Visit Visa
You can apply for the UK Business Visit Visa online through the UK Home Office website. There are different visa options depending on how often you plan to visit the UK for business:
- 6 months: £100 fee
- 2 years: £376 fee
- 5 years: £670 fee
- 10 years: £837 fee
To apply, you need to:
- Complete the online application form.
- Pay the application fee.
- Book and attend an appointment at a visa application center.
- Submit your identity documents and supporting documents, such as your invitation letter or contract.
In most cases, your application will be processed in about 3 weeks. If you need a faster decision, you may be able to pay an additional fee for expedited processing.
The UK Business Visit Visa is a great option for individuals who need to visit the UK for short-term business activities. By understanding the rules and permitted activities, you can ensure your application is successful. If you need help applying or have any questions, Law and Visas can provide expert assistance to guide you through the process.
