Are you a distinguished academic, scientist, or senior medical professional looking to collaborate with UK counterparts, conduct groundbreaking research, or share your expertise? We specialize in facilitating your entry to the UK, ensuring a smooth and successful visa application process that recognizes your professional standing.
Whether you’re planning a short-term visit or an extended stay of up to 12 months, the UK’s Standard Visitor route is designed to accommodate your specific professional needs.
Your Visit, Your Way: Tailored for Academic Excellence
As a visiting academic, you can:
- Engage in formal exchange programs with leading UK institutions.
- Conduct vital research, either independently or as a key part of your current role.
- Share your knowledge through teaching (for senior doctors/dentists, not in a permanent post).
- Undertake clinical practice on a non-permanent basis (for senior doctors/dentists).
- Accept invitations for ‘Permitted Paid Engagements’, such as delivering prestigious lectures or serving as an academic assessor.
For certain advanced research subjects, an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate may be necessary. Our experts can guide you through this requirement.
Flexible Visa Options to Suit Your Schedule
For Stays Up to 6 Months:
Most short-term academic visits fall under the standard visitor rules. We will help you:
- Confirm you meet the core eligibility criteria.
- Determine if your nationality requires you to apply for a visa in advance.
- Prepare and submit a compelling application if a visa is needed.
For Extended Stays Up to 12 Months:
For longer-term research or collaboration, a specific 12-month Standard Visitor visa is required for all nationalities. We can assist you with two clear pathways:
- Apply in Advance: Secure a 12-month visa for £220 before you travel, providing certainty for your entire stay.
- Extend in the UK: Arrive on a 6-month entry and then apply to extend your stay for a total of 12 months (extension fee: £1,100).
Your spouse, partner, and children can also apply to join you for the duration of your 12-month visit.
Meeting the Eligibility for a Longer Stay
To secure a visa for more than six months, you must demonstrate your professional standing. We will help you compile the evidence to prove that you are:
- Highly qualified in your field, typically holding a PhD or higher.
- Currently employed at an academic institution outside the UK.
- Visiting for a specific purpose such as research, a formal exchange, or clinical practice, and not filling a permanent teaching role.
We will guide you in obtaining the necessary supporting documents, such as letters from your home employer and the UK host institution, to build a robust application.
Partner with Us for a Seamless Application
Your focus should be on your academic pursuits, not on complex paperwork. Let our experienced team manage your visa application, ensuring every detail is handled with professionalism and care. Contact us today to facilitate your academic visit to the UK.
About the Author:
Farzad Ghods is an international lawyer specialising in UK immigration law. He is regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) and the Immigration Advisors Authority (IAA) in the United Kingdom, and is also a member of the Iran Bar Association. He brings over fourteen years of professional legal experience to his practice.