Tourists Can Now Work in the UK Under New Visa Rules

The United Kingdom has introduced significant changes to its visitor visa program, allowing tourists to engage in a wider range of work-related activities while visiting the country. These changes, which will come into effect on January 31, 2024, are aimed at boosting tourism, business, and investment in the UK.

Key changes to the Visitor Visa program:

• Client work: Visitors holding a Standard Visitor visa can now engage in client work for their overseas employer under certain conditions. This includes working for a company with branches in both the UK and abroad, where the client work forms a small part of their overseas job and is essential for a project or service by their employer's UK branch.
• Remote work: Visitors can now work remotely from the UK, provided that remote work is not the primary reason for their visit. This means that visitors can continue to work for their overseas employer while enjoying a vacation in the UK.
• Expanded activities for professionals: The new rules also allow for expanded activities for professionals such as researchers, lawyers, and academics. For example, researchers can now conduct research in the UK for up to six months without a separate research visa.

Who is eligible for these changes?

The new rules apply to visitors who hold a Standard Visitor visa. This type of visa is typically issued for short-term visits to the UK for tourism, business, or other purposes. To be eligible for the new rules, visitors must meet the general requirements for a Standard Visitor visa, such as having sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay and having a return ticket.

What are the limitations?

It is important to note that there are some limitations to the new rules. For example, visitors cannot take up full-time employment in the UK or start their own business. Additionally, they cannot work for a UK company or directly sell goods or services to UK customers.

How to apply for a Standard Visitor visa

Visitors who wish to take advantage of the new rules should apply for a Standard Visitor visa online. The application process is relatively straightforward and can be completed in a matter of minutes.

Overall, the new changes to the UK's Visitor Visa program represent a significant step forward in making the country more welcoming to tourists and business visitors. By allowing visitors to engage in a wider range of work-related activities, the UK is hoping to attract more visitors and boost its economy.

Additional considerations:

• It is important to carefully read and understand the full terms and conditions of your visa before engaging in any work-related activities in the UK.
• If you are unsure whether your planned activities are permitted under your visa, you should consult with a UK immigration lawyer.
• The UK government may make further changes to the Visitor Visa program in the future, so it is important to stay up-to-date on the latest developments.