New UK Visa Rule: Tourists Can Work in 2024

The United Kingdom has announced significant revisions to its visa regulations, set to take effect on January 31, 2024. In a move aimed at enhancing both business opportunities and tourism, holders of tourist visas will now be permitted to work within the country.

Under the updated guidelines, employees of companies operating both in the UK and internationally can undertake work involving clients abroad. However, this work must constitute only a minor aspect of their responsibilities outside the UK and must be integral to a project or service based in the UK. While remote work is permissible, the primary purpose of the visit must not be remote employment.

The UK government will also extend permissions for scientists, researchers, and academics conducting research within the country. Exceptions include academics who may apply for a 12-month visit visa, with the option to seek extensions while in the UK. Additionally, lawyers will have the opportunity to engage in various activities such as providing legal advice, acting as expert witnesses, participating in legal proceedings, and teaching.

In a bid to streamline processes, the Permitted Paid Engagement (PPE) Visitor route will be incorporated into the Standard Visitor route. This integration eliminates the need for a separate visa for individuals involved in paid engagements, provided that such engagements are arranged within 30 days of arrival.

The revisions follow the earlier commitment made by Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt to expand business visitor regulations. This expansion aims to afford business professionals a wider array of approved activities, including participation in paid engagements, thereby facilitating increased business opportunities within the UK