While the Visit visa does not permit traditional employment, it does permit a range of business activities than can help you forge partnerships and explore market opportunities in the UK.
A Visit visa is a short-term visa that allows visits to the UK of up to six months at a time. The UK Visit visa offers a valuable opportunity to explore new market possibilities, network and more. However, it is important to know the limitations.
Can I attend conferences, seminars and interviews?
You have an opportunity to expand your professional network while on a Visit visa. You can attend conferences & seminars, meetings and interviews. You can also engage in trade fairs for promotional work providing you are not directly selling to the public.
You may also be able to attend training, and you can find out more on this subject here.
Can I negotiate deals?
Negotiating and signing deals and contracts is permitted if you are in the UK on a Visit visa. In general, engaging in business discussions, exploring partnerships, as well as finalising terms, is within the scope of a Visit visa. You can also sign contracts. For instance, it is important to demonstrate that you clearly work overseas and are signing agreements on behalf of your overseas employer or business.
Conclusion
The Visit Visa can be a powerful tool for you to attend industry events and connect with UK companies, as well as to explore new market opportunities. If you are in the process of planning a business trip to the UK, it is important to ensure that the planned business activities align with visa rules. If you are unsure about the type of visa you need to conduct the business activities you are planning to engage in, our experts are happy to advise and assist you.
Updated: 19 March 2025
How Gherson can assist
Gherson’s Immigration Team are highly experienced in advising on UK visa matters. If you have any questions arising from this blog, please do not hesitate to contact us for advice, send us an e-mail, or, alternatively, follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn to stay-up-to-date.
The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position. Gherson accepts no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog. For formal advice on the current law please do not hesitate to contact Gherson. Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Gherson.
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