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Understanding changes to UK Visitor Visa Rules for Paid Engagements

Published 18 October 2024

The changes regarding “permitted paid engagements” (PPE) in the UK are significant. This update explains how the old “Permitted Paid Engagement Visitor visa” has been integrated into the “Standard Visitor visa”, eliminating the need for a specialised PPE Visitor visa to undertake paid engagements.

Can Visitors work in the UK?

Visitors are generally not allowed to work in the UK unless they are engaged in “permitted activities” as outlined in the Visitor appendices. These activities include categories like Volunteering, General Business Activities, Intra-corporate Activities, Legal, Religion and Creative.

Can Visitors Be Paid in the UK?

Visitors cannot receive payment from a UK source for any activities undertaken in the UK, except under specific exceptions:

  • Reasonable expenses for travel and subsistence
  • Payment for international drivers or seafarers
  • Prize money
  • Payment from billing a UK client for work mostly done overseas
  • Salary payments from multinational companies
  • Payment for performances at listed permit-free festivals
  • Specific permitted paid engagements

Failure to comply with these rules can result in serious consequences for future immigration applications.

What is a “Permitted Paid Engagement”?

A permitted paid engagement allows certain professionals to receive payment for specific activities in the UK. These professionals include:

  • Academics invited by UK institutions
  • Experts giving lectures
  • Overseas pilot examiners
  • Qualified lawyers for advocacy
  • Professional artists, entertainers, or musicians
  • Professional sportspersons
  • Speakers giving talks or speeches

These engagements must be pre-arranged, declared upon entry, and supported by a formal invitation.

Which Visa do I need for “Permitted Paid Engagements”?

The “Permitted Paid Engagement Visitor visa” category no longer exists. Visitors wishing to undertake PPEs can now apply for a Standard Visitor visa. This means:

  • You must apply for and be granted a Standard Visitor visa.
  • You must meet the additional requirements specific to permitted paid engagements.

Additional requirements for “Permitted Paid Engagements”

Visitors must:

  • Be aged 18 or over upon entry to the UK
  • Intend to undertake one or more listed permitted paid engagements
  • Have the engagement arranged before travelling to the UK
  • Declare the engagement in their application for entry clearance
  • Provide a formal invitation for the engagement
  • Ensure the engagement relates to their expertise and occupation overseas

Duration of stay

While Standard Visitor visas are typically valid for up to six months, permitted paid engagements must be completed within 30 days of entry into the UK. Visitors can stay for up to six months to engage in other permitted activities.

Contact us

At Five Star International Ltd, we specialize in Visit Visas and have successfully assisted clients with multiple refusals.

For expert advice on travel, entry and working in the UK as a Visitor, contact us today.

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