Permitted Paid Engagement Visa

The Permitted Paid Engagement Visa allows individuals to come to the UK for a short time to undertake specific paid work in a professional capacity, such as an artist, entertainer, academic, or researcher. This visa is designed for individuals invited to the UK for short-term engagements that do not require long-term immigration routes.

This visa is for temporary, paid work and does not lead to settlement in the UK.

Eligibility

To qualify for a Permitted Paid Engagement Visa, you must:

• Be aged 18 or over.
• Have a confirmed offer of paid work in the UK.
• Be invited by a UK-based organization, institution, or individual for specific engagements, such as:
  • Giving a lecture or speaking at a conference.
  • Performing or providing services as an artist or entertainer.
  • Carrying out a specific research project or academic work.
• Have a clear intention to leave the UK after your engagement ends.
• Prove you can financially support yourself during your stay.

Duration of Stay

The Permitted Paid Engagement Visa allows you to stay in the UK for:

• Up to 1 month.

Extensions or switching to another visa category while in the UK are not permitted under this visa.

Application Process

Timeline

You can apply for a Permitted Paid Engagement Visa up to 3 months before your intended travel date. As part of your application, you will need to:

• Prove your identity.
• Provide supporting documents, including:
  • A letter or invitation from the UK organization or individual offering the paid engagement.
  • Proof of your financial ability to support yourself.
  • Details of the specific paid engagement you will undertake in the UK.
• Attend a biometric appointment if required.

Decision Timeframe

• 3 weeks if applying from outside the UK.

Rights and Restrictions

What You Can Do:

• Work in the specific paid engagement as described in your application.
• Engage in the professional activities for which you have been invited.

What You Cannot Do:

• Take up other employment or self-employment.
• Stay in the UK longer than the duration allowed.
• Apply for most benefits (public funds).
• Bring dependents; they must apply separately if needed.
• Switch to another visa category or extend your stay.

Get in touch with us now at Squadlead to make your Permitted Paid Engagement Visa application process seamless and stress-free!