UK Standard Visitor Visa & Remote Work

Navigating the UK Standard Visitor Visa rules can be complex, especially with recent updates on remote work permissions. As of 31 January 2024, visitors holding this visa may engage in remote work, provided it is secondary to their primary purpose. With high rejection rates, applicants must ensure they fully meet visa requirements to avoid refusal. Below, we’ll guide you through essential rules, what the Home Office looks for, and how to strengthen your visa application.

Table of Contents

• 1. Remote Work Permitted on the UK Standard Visitor Visa
• 2. How the Home Office Assesses Standard Visitor Visa Applications
• 3. Payment and Employment Conditions for Standard Visitor Visa Holders
• 4. Special Guidelines for Academics, Researchers, and Scientists
• 5. Intra-Corporate Activities and Client Work Allowed with Limitations
• 6. Tips for a Successful UK Standard Visitor Visa Application

1. Remote Work Permitted on the UK Standard Visitor Visa

Under the new 2024 guidance, the UK Standard Visitor Visa allows remote work while in the UK, but only if remote work is not the primary purpose of your visit. This visa is primarily intended for activities such as tourism, attending conferences, or participating in other allowed activities listed in Immigration Rules Appendix V: Visitors.

If remote work will be part of your stay, you must demonstrate that the main reason for visiting the UK aligns with these permitted activities, with any remote work serving as an incidental, secondary activity.

2. How the Home Office Assesses Standard Visitor Visa Applications

When evaluating Standard Visitor Visa applications, the Home Office considers whether remote work is incidental or if it appears to be the main reason for visiting. Factors that the Home Office scrutinises include the length of stay, financial independence (ensuring applicants do not depend on remote work income), and employment history with an overseas employer.

If you intend to stay longer than a month, or if your income largely depends on remote work, your application may undergo closer review. Visits exceeding 90 days will attract heightened scrutiny to verify that remote work is incidental.

3. Payment and Employment Conditions for Standard Visitor Visa Holders

Applicants may receive payment from their overseas employer during their stay, but payments from UK sources are not permitted. All income must come directly from an employer abroad, with limited exceptions such as travel reimbursements and certain approved paid engagements. Importantly, UK Standard Visitor Visa holders are prohibited from performing remote work for UK-based employers.

4. Special Guidelines for Academics, Researchers, and Scientists

The 2024 Standard Visitor Visa updates provide valuable opportunities for scientists, researchers, and academics. Under the new rules, these professionals can collaborate, gather data, and conduct research in the UK, regardless of whether they are on sabbatical or working on a specific project. Academics applying for 12-month visas must still meet additional requirements, such as taking a sabbatical from their overseas institution to pursue personal research.

5. Intra-Corporate Activities and Client Work Allowed with Limitations

The UK Standard Visitor Visa now allows some ‘intra-corporate activities’ and limited client-facing work, provided these duties are incidental to the visitor’s role with their overseas employer. For instance, applicants can assist colleagues in a UK office on a project led by the UK branch, even if this includes some client work.

However, if client work appears to be the main purpose of the visit, the application is likely to be refused. For further details, see the official UK government guidance.

6. Tips for a Successful UK Standard Visitor Visa Application

With the very high rejection rate of UK Standard Visitor Visas, applicants must make it clear that remote work is only a minor part of their trip. Demonstrating strong ties to your home country, such as family, property, employment, or community involvement, can support your application.

By preparing carefully and adhering to the latest UK Standard Visitor Visa requirements, visitors can enjoy a productive UK stay, balancing their work commitments with approved activities. For additional guidance, explore Axis Solicitors’ visitor visa page to learn about more of the services we offer for Standard Visitor Visa applications.