Permitted Paid Engagements under the UK Visitor Visa
From 2026, Permitted Paid Engagements (PPE) are no longer a separate visa category but are now part of the Standard Visitor Visa route. This change allows professionals, academics, and performers to carry out short-term paid work in the UK without sponsorship, provided it relates directly to their expertise abroad and is completed within one month of arrival.
For up-to-date guidance on whether your planned activity qualifies, contact Immigration Solicitors UK on +44 2080 162308 or through our online form.
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From 2026, Permitted Paid Engagements (PPE) are no longer a separate visa category but are now part of the Standard Visitor Visa route. This change allows professionals, academics, and performers to carry out short-term paid work in the UK without sponsorship, provided it relates directly to their expertise abroad and is completed within one month of arrival.
For up-to-date guidance on whether your planned activity qualifies, contact Immigration Solicitors UK on +44 2080 162308 or through our online form.
What is a Permitted Paid Engagement
A Permitted Paid Engagement allows an established professional to visit the UK for a short, pre-arranged paid activity without sponsorship or long-term work permission. It is intended for individuals who are recognised in their field and have been formally invited by a UK organisation, client, or institution.
Typical engagements include:
- Artists, musicians, and performers invited to appear in events or exhibitions
- Academics or lecturers conducting guest teaching, examinations, or panel work, including semi-retired professionals who remain active in their field
- Lawyers representing clients in UK courts or arbitration proceedings
- Aviation examiners assessing UK-based pilots
- Sports professionals participating in promotional or expert activities
- Guest speakers delivering lectures or conference presentations
These activities must be directly related to the visitor’s professional expertise and reputation outside the UK.
To qualify for a Permitted Paid Engagement under the Standard Visitor route, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old at the time of entry
- Have received a formal written invitation from a UK-based organisation, client, or academic institution
- Demonstrate that the engagement is directly linked to your profession and expertise abroad
- Be able to meet your travel, accommodation, and living costs independently
- Complete the paid engagement within one month of arrival in the UK
- Intend to leave the UK at the end of your visit and not use frequent trips to live here long-term
What You Can and Cannot Do
Visitors carrying out permitted paid engagements may:
- Complete the specific engagement listed in their invitation
- Take part in general visitor activities such as tourism, short meetings, or brief study courses
However, they cannot:
- Undertake general employment or ongoing paid work
- Engage in unpaid internships or work placements
- Start or manage a business
- Bring dependants under the same application
- Access public funds or extend their stay for work purposes
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You must provide evidence confirming both your eligibility and your professional standing. The required documents generally include:
- A valid passport or travel document
- A formal written invitation from the UK organisation or client describing the engagement and its timing
- Proof of current professional status and expertise in your field such as qualifications, contracts, or membership in recognised bodies
- For artists, performers, or entertainers publicity material for recent performances and media coverage or reviews from the last 12 months
- Evidence of financial means to support your stay and return travel
- Proof of accommodation and travel arrangements
Depending on your nationality, you may also need to secure an Electronic Travel Authorisation before travel.
ETA and Digital Permissions
From 25 February 2026, all non-visa nationals such as citizens of the EU, US, Canada, or Australia must hold a valid Electronic Travel Authorisation before travelling to the UK.
For visa nationals, enhanced digital permission to travel checks will begin from 28 January 2026, aligning the global pre-clearance system for all travellers.
ISUK can assist with ETA applications and help set up your digital UKVI account, which replaces traditional visa stickers and physical documents.
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Applications for visitor visas that include permitted paid engagements are submitted online before travel. You may be required to provide biometrics or verify your identity using the UK Immigration ID Check app.
Once all information is submitted, most decisions are made within a few weeks. Faster processing options may be available depending on location.
It is essential to ensure your engagement is pre-arranged, clearly documented, and completed within the first month of entry.
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How Immigration Solicitors UK Can Help
Our immigration team assists professionals invited to the UK for short-term paid activities.
We will:
- Confirm whether your engagement qualifies under the current Visitor route
- Review your invitation, supporting documents, and professional credentials
- Prepare your application and supporting representation
- Assist with ETA and eVisa setup under the 2026 digital framework
For expert advice, call +44 2080 162308 or contact us online to speak with one of our legal specialists.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I still need a separate PPE Visa?
No. The PPE Visa has been integrated into the Standard Visitor route. You still declare your paid engagement, but no separate visa type exists.
How long do I have to complete my paid activity?
The engagement must be completed within one month after arrival in the UK, even if your overall stay is up to six months.
What evidence do I need to show my expertise?
You should provide documentation such as contracts, qualifications, and recent publicity or media coverage that demonstrate you are professionally active in your field.
Do non-visa nationals need permission before travel?
Yes. From 25 February 2026, all non-visa nationals must hold an Electronic Travel Authorisation before boarding.
Can I bring dependants?
No. Each accompanying family member must apply separately under the Standard Visitor category.
