How to get a business visa to the UK: a complete guide
A business visa allows foreign nationals to visit the UK for business purposes such as attending negotiations, conferences, professional training or business management. This type of visa is required for those who plan to stay temporarily in the country for the purpose of carrying out authorised business activities.
Applying for a UK business visa starts with choosing the right type of visa depending on your purpose of travel:
- Standard Visitor visa for business (up to 6 months).
- Innovator Founder visa for starting a business.
- Global Talent visa for professionals in science, culture or digital technology.
- Long-term visas for employees working in international companies.
Apply. Make sure the details match your passport and other documents. Prepare your passport, proof of financial solvency, invitation from the organisation, travel details and purpose of visit.
Business visa information
Multiple
Up to 6 months per trip
6 months, 2 years, 5 years or 10 years
3 months before the intended trip
Which nationalities must apply for a business visa?
Who doesn't need a UK business visa?
Citizens of the European Union (excluding Ireland), the USA, Canada, Australia and a number of other visa-free countries can visit the UK without a visa for up to 6 months for short-term business purposes. However, such nationals are required to apply for electronic ETA authorisation from 2025. An appropriate work visa is required for employment or long-term business activities.
What documents are required to enter with a business visa?
It is important to note that document requirements may vary depending on the country of residence and visa type.
Why contact Visa-Navigator.com?
Our company offers professional support in processing a business visa to the UK. We:
- Help you to collect a full package of documents.
- Check the correctness of filling in the application form and other applications.
- Accompany you at all stages of the process.
- Ensure timely submission of documents.
With us, the process of obtaining a visa will be simple and convenient.
FAQ
Who can apply for a business visa to the UK?
A business visa is for foreign nationals who are planning short trips to the UK for business purposes. This may include attending conferences, negotiations, professional training or contracting. Applicants must confirm the purpose of the trip and have the necessary documentation.
Can I work on a business visa?
No, a business visa does not allow you to work or be paid for labour in the UK. It is only for short-term business activities such as meetings, negotiations or attending conferences.
Is it possible to extend a business visa?
It is not possible to extend a business visa. For longer stays or other purposes, you must apply for another type of visa appropriate to your situation.
What reasons can lead to a visa refusal?
The main reasons for refusal include:
- Incomplete application package.
- Insufficient financial support.
- Violation of the visa regime in the past.
- Suspicion that the purpose of the trip does not correspond to the declared purpose.
What should I do if my visa application is rejected?
If you have been refused a visa, it is important to address the stated reasons for refusal. You can reapply with correct information and complete documents.
Do I have to pay the visa fee again when submitting a new application?
Yes, the visa fee needs to be paid again for each new application as it is non-refundable.
Can a business visa be used for a tourist trip?
A business visa allows you to visit tourist attractions in your free time, but the main purpose of your visit must be business related. For better travelling and sightseeing, we recommend considering a UK tourist visa.
Do I need an invitation from a company in the UK?
Yes, an invitation from a UK company is required. It must be on an official letterhead stating the purpose of the visit, dates of travel and information about the host.
Is health insurance required for a business visa?
Health insurance is not compulsory but is highly recommended to cover potential health costs while in the UK.
Can I apply for a long term business visa?
Yes, you can apply for a long term business visa (2, 5 or 10 years) if you plan to travel to the UK on a regular basis. However, each trip must not exceed 6 months.
Can I bring my family with me on a business visa?
A business visa is intended for individual travellers. They will need to apply for the appropriate type of visa to accompany family members.
Latest UK News
Azerbaijan
Belarus
Russia
Turkey
Bahrain
Bangladesh
Bhutan
Cambodia
China
Indonesia
India
Iran
Kazakhstan
Jordan
Kuwait
Laos
Lebanon
Maldives
Mongolia
Myanmar
Nepal
Oman
Pakistan
Philippines
Saudi Arabia
South Korea
Sri Lanka
Tajikistan
Thailand
Turkmenistan
UAE
Uzbekistan
Vietnam
Yemen
Algeria
Angola
Benin
Botswana
Burkina Faso
Burundi
Cameroon
Cape Verde Islands
Chad
Congo Rep.
Côte d'Ivoire
Egypt
Equatorial Guinea
Ethiopia
Djibouti
Gabon
Ghana
Guinea
Kenya
Malawi
Mali
Morocco
Mozambique
Namibia
Niger
Rwanda
Sao Tome and Principe
Sierra Leone
Southern Sudan
South Africa
Sudan
Tanzania
Togo
Uganda
Zimbabwe
Zambia
Bolivia
Antigua and Barbuda
Bahamas
Canada
Cuba
Montserrat
Puerto-Rico
St. Kitts and Nevis
USA
Australia
Papua New Guinea
New Zealand
We will contact you as soon as possible.
Kind regards,
Visa-Navigator.com team
