UK Unveils Major Changes to Visa Rules, Visitors Can Now Work!

In a significant move aimed at bolstering business and tourism, the United Kingdom is set to implement noteworthy amendments to its Visitor Visa regulations, effective January 31, 2024.

These changes, detailed in the updated immigration rules released by the UK government, open up new avenues for visitors, allowing additional business activities while maintaining the core purpose of their visit.

Remote Work Permitted for Overseas Employees

Under the revised guidelines, visitors to the UK will have the unprecedented privilege of continuing to work for an overseas employer during their stay.

However, it is crucial to note that the primary purpose of their visit should align with tourism, visiting family, or engaging in non-work-related activities. Remote work conducted in the UK must also be directly linked to the visitor’s overseas employment.

Also Read: UK Announces Incremental Changes to Family Visa Salary Requirements

Key Expansions to Visitor Visa Activities

The updated rules introduce several key expansions to the activities permitted under the Visitor Visa:

Client Work Eligibility: Visitors holding these visas can now engage in client work under specific conditions. This includes working in a company with branches both in the UK and abroad, where client work forms a small part of their job overseas and is essential for a project or service by their employer’s UK branch.

Working from the UK: Visitors are now allowed to work from the UK, provided that remote work is not the primary reason for their visit.

Scientists, Researchers, and Academics: Professionals in these fields can conduct research in the UK, except for academics applying for a 12-month visit visa or extending permission from within the country.

Expanded Activities for Lawyers: Lawyers on Visitor Visas can now participate in additional activities in the UK, including giving advice, acting as an expert witness, participating in arbitrations, legal proceedings, and teaching.

Paid Engagements for Speakers: Speakers visiting the UK on a visitor visa will now be eligible to receive payment for their talks.

Merger of Permitted Paid Engagement (PPE) Visitor Route: The PPE Visitor route will be integrated into the Standard Visitor route. Individuals engaged in paid activities will no longer require a separate visa, but they must plan their activities within 30 days of arrival.

Also Read: High Demand for Skilled Workers: Visa Gateway to Australia, Canada, Germany & UK!

Positive Impact Expected

These changes, especially the remote work allowance, are expected to boost both business and tourism in the UK. Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt reiterated the government’s commitment to expanding business visitor rules and enabling a wider range of permitted activities. Further reforms are anticipated in 2024.

The allowance for remote work is expected to play a pivotal role in fostering business and tourism in the United Kingdom.