Science, Research, Academia

Academics, scientists and researchers may: 

• Collaborate, gather information and facts, or conduct research, either for a specific project which directly relates to their employmnet overseas, or independently; 
• Take part in formal exchange arrangements with UK counterparts (including doctors).

Where the visitor is already paid and employed outside of the UK they must remain so during their time in the UK. Visitors will have no recourse to public funds, and are not permitted to study or work (this does not prohibit the incidental study or work allowed in carrying out their research).

This is for 6 months maximum.

Academics seeking to come to the UK for more than 6 months (applying for a 12-month entry clearance) must:

• Intend to undertake one (or more) of the following activities for up to 12 months:
  • Take part in formal exchange arrangements with UK counterparts (including doctors); or
  • Carry out research for their own purposes, if they are on sabbatical leave from their home institution; and
• Be highly qualified within their own field of expertise; and
• Currently be working in that field at an academic institution or institution of higher education overseas.