Visiting the UK for Business – Understanding the Visitor Visa (2025 Guide)

The UK is one of the world’s top business hubs.
Every year, professionals travel to attend meetings, sign contracts, or join international events.

If you plan to visit the UK for business but not to work or be employed here, you will need a Business Visitor Visa.

At AHJ Immigration, we help business travellers prepare strong applications that meet Home Office requirements and avoid costly refusals.

What Is the Business Visitor Visa?

The Business Visitor Visa is part of the Standard Visitor Visa category.
It allows you to come to the UK for short-term business activities such as meetings, training, and conferences.

You cannot work for a UK company or be paid in the UK under this visa.
It is designed for professionals visiting temporarily for specific business purposes.

What You Can Do on a Business Visitor Visa

You are allowed to:

• Attend meetings, interviews, or conferences
• Negotiate and sign business contracts
• Give briefings or training sessions (if not paid in the UK)
• Visit trade shows, exhibitions, or networking events
• Install, repair, or provide training on equipment supplied by your overseas company

You are not allowed to:

• Do paid or unpaid work for a UK company
• Live in the UK long-term
• Claim public funds
• Get married or form a civil partnership

Who Can Apply

You can apply if you are:

• Based overseas and employed by a company outside the UK
• Visiting a UK branch, partner, or client
• A self-employed person running an international business
• An academic, researcher, or expert invited for a short event

There is no nationality restriction, but some citizens can enter visa-free for short business visits.

Requirements for the Business Visitor Visa

You must show that:

• You will leave the UK after your visit
• You have enough funds for your stay
• You are genuinely employed overseas
• You will not take employment in the UK
• You can pay for accommodation and travel

Your application must clearly explain your business purpose and connection to the UK company or event.

Documents You Need

• Passport (valid for at least six months)
• Letter from your overseas employer confirming your position, purpose of visit, and duration
• Invitation letter from the UK company or conference organiser
• Bank statements for at least six months
• Travel itinerary and accommodation booking
• Proof of employment such as payslips or contracts
• Business registration documents if self-employed

Attach these in a clear, professional format. Consistency between documents is essential.

How to Apply

Step 1: Apply Online

Complete your application on UK Government Website.
Select “Business” as your reason for visiting.

Step 2: Pay the Fee

The fee for a 6-month visa is £115 in 2025.
You can also apply for longer-term multiple-entry visas:

Step 3: Book a Biometrics Appointment

Attend your nearest Visa Application Centre (VAC) to give fingerprints and a photograph.

Step 4: Upload Your Documents

Upload your business letters, financial proof, and travel details.

Step 5: Wait for a Decision

Most applications are decided within 3 weeks.
Priority and super-priority options are available in many countries.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not explaining your role clearly in the invitation letter
• Submitting bank statements that do not match your income
• Forgetting to include your company’s registration details
• Applying for the wrong visa type (e.g. Skilled Worker instead of Business Visitor)
• Booking flights before the visa is approved

We review your application before submission to prevent these issues.

Can You Be Paid in the UK?

In most cases, you cannot receive payment from a UK company.
However, you may receive expenses or allowances from your overseas employer for travel, accommodation, and meals.

If you plan to deliver paid services, you will need a Skilled Worker Visa or Temporary Work Visa instead.

Duration and Extensions

A Business Visitor Visa is usually valid for six months.
You can apply for a multiple-entry visa for up to 10 years if you travel frequently.

You cannot extend this visa from inside the UK or switch to a different visa type.

Costs and Processing Time (2025)

(Verified October 2025 Home Office guidance)

How AHJ Immigration Can Help

We prepare your business visa application from start to finish.
Our goal is to make your visit smooth and stress-free.

Our services include:

• Free 30-minute consultation: Assess your eligibility and documents.
• 1-hour paid consultation (£120): Detailed document review (deducted from final cost).
• Application preparation: We prepare your forms and letters professionally.
• Communication: We manage follow-ups and Home Office updates.

📞 Call 0121 828 2224 to start your Business Visitor Visa application today.

FAQs

1. Can I attend meetings in the UK on a visitor visa?
Yes, you can attend meetings, training, or conferences as long as you are not paid by a UK company.

2. Can I get a multiple-entry visa for business?
Yes. You can apply for a 2, 5, or 10-year multiple-entry visa.

3. Do I need a sponsor for a business visitor visa?
No, but you must have an invitation from a UK-based company or organisation.

4. Can I extend my visa while in the UK?
No. You must leave the UK and apply again if you want to return.

5. Can I bring my family with me on a business visit?
Yes, they can apply as visitors, but they cannot work or study during their stay.

Visit the UK for Business with Confidence

A well-prepared Business Visitor Visa application helps you avoid delays and refusals.
Let AHJ Immigration make sure your documents and letters are perfect.

📞 Call 0121 828 2224 for your free 30-minute consultation, or book a 1-hour paid session (£120) for full business visa support.