Types of visa

There are many different types of visas available for entering the UK, and it’s important to choose the one that best matches your employment, study, or business needs.

Long-Term Visas

These are suitable for individuals planning to work, study, or start a business in the UK.

Short-Term Visitor Visas

These are for temporary stays, typically up to 6 months.

Global Talent Visa

This visa is designed for leaders or emerging leaders in:

Academia and research
Arts and culture
Digital technology

Applicants must either:

Be endorsed by one of six Home Office-approved bodies (e.g. UKRI, British Academy, Royal Society)
Or hold a prestigious prize (e.g. Horizon Europe MSCA award) to bypass endorsement

More details: Global Talent Visa [gov.uk]

High Potential Individual (HPI) Visa

This visa allows graduates from eligible global universities to live and work in the UK for:

2 years (standard)
3 years (if you hold a PhD or equivalent)

It cannot be extended, but you may switch to another visa (e.g. Skilled Worker).
Eligible universities are listed here.

More details: HPI Visa

Future Technology Research and Innovation (FTRI) Scheme

A new Government Authorised Exchange (GAE) scheme enabling UK businesses to sponsor international researchers and interns in critical technologies:

Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Engineering Biology
Future Telecommunications
Quantum Technologies
Semiconductors

This scheme supports short-term placements and is aligned with the UK’s Science & Technology Framework.

More details: Future Technology Research and Innovation visa scheme - register business interest - UK Research and Innovation - Citizen Space

Innovator Founder Visa

For entrepreneurs launching innovative businesses in the UK. Requirements include:

A business idea endorsed by an approved body
Proof of innovation and market differentiation

More details: https://www.gov.uk/innovator-founder-visa

Skilled Worker Visa

For individuals with a job offer from a UK employer approved by the Home Office. You must:

Have a certificate of sponsorship
Do a job on the eligible occupations list
Meet salary thresholds

More details: https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa

Student Visa

For full-time study at a licensed UK institution.
More details: https://www.gov.uk/student-visa/course

Can students work?
This depends on your visa conditions. For guidance, visit https://www.ukcisa.org.uk/ for legal advice on student work rights.

Ukrainian Nationals

The Ukraine Family Scheme closed in February 2024.

Current support routes are outlined https://www.gov.uk/guidance/support-for-family-members-of-british-nationals-in-ukraine-and-ukrainian-nationals-in-ukraine-and-the-uk and https://www.euraxess.org.uk/ukraine

Refugees

Information on claiming asylum in the UK is available https://www.gov.uk/claim-asylum.

EURAXESS also offers resources for refugee researchers: https://euraxess.ec.europa.eu/jobs/science4refugees.

Standard Visitor visa

for tourism, short courses, business meetings, or academic visits.
Visit the UK as a Standard Visitor: Apply for a Standard Visitor visa - GOV.UK

Marriage Visitor visa

for those intending to marry or register a civil partnership in the UK.
Marriage Visitor visa: Overview - GOV.UK

Permitted Paid Engagement visa

for short-term professional activities such as lectures or performances.
Visit the UK as a Standard Visitor: Visit for a paid engagement or event - GOV.UK

Choosing the Right Visa

Your visa type depends on:

Your nationality
The purpose of your visit
The duration of your stay
Whether you have a job offer or sponsorship

Before applying, check if you need a visa or if you're eligible for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). Applications must be approved before travel.

For full details and application guidance, visit the UK Visas and Immigration website.