Guide
What you can and cannot do as a UK Standard Visitor
A plain-English overview of permitted activities on the UK Standard Visitor route, and the work restrictions.
Common permitted activities
Tourism, visiting family and friends, some business activities such as attending meetings or conferences, attending events, and short courses of study are among the activities described in the published guidance.
Work restrictions
GOV.UK guidance says Standard Visitors cannot do paid or unpaid work for a UK company or as a self-employed person. Check the official list of permitted activities if your plans include anything work-related.
Length of stay
Standard Visitors can usually stay for up to 6 months. Your planned dates should match the purpose you describe.
Official sources
- Visit the UK as a Standard Visitor (opens in a new tab)
- Immigration Rules Appendix V: Visitor (opens in a new tab)
Last updated 2026-10-14. General information only, not immigration advice.