Academic visitors

The University welcomes Academic Visitors for short-term academic engagement, including research collaboration, knowledge exchange, and the development of international academic links.

Purpose of academic visits

Academic Visits are intended to support short-term academic collaboration and engagement. Typical activities include:

• research collaboration
• knowledge exchange
• development of academic links with overseas institutions.

Academic Visits are not intended for employment by the University, regular teaching, or filling an ongoing role within the University.

Permitted activities 

Academic Visitors may undertake permitted academic activities, provided these do not constitute employment or an ongoing role within the University.

Typical permitted activities include:

• independent research 
• collaboration with University staff 
• attending meetings, conferences, and seminars 
• academic knowledge exchange
• giving occasional guest lectures where permitted under the relevant visitor rules, provided they are not part of a broader teaching commitment, course delivery, or ongoing academic responsibility.

All activities must comply with UKVI Standard Visitor requirements.

Refer to the UK Government guidance to confirm whether the intended activities are permitted under the Standard Visitor route:

• Standard Visitor visa – GOV.UK
• Visit as an academic – GOV.UK 

Duration of visit 

Academic Visitors can normally stay in the UK for up to six months. In limited circumstances, eligible academics may be permitted to stay for up to twelve months, subject to the specific UKVI requirements for their visit.

Frequent or successive visits must not be used to establish long-term residence in the UK or circumvent immigration rules. Visitors must be able to demonstrate that they are genuine visitors who will leave the UK at the end of each stay. 

Immigration requirements

Visitors are responsible for ensuring they hold the correct immigration permission before travelling to the UK.

Depending on nationality, this may include applying for a Standard Visitor visa in advance of travel, obtaining an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), or visa-free entry where permitted.

If a Standard Visitor visa is required, applications can be submitted no earlier than 3 months before travel.  Decisions are usually issued within 3 weeks, though applicants are advised to check UKVI visa processing times for the country from which they are applying.

Visitors should check the latest UK Government guidance before travelling and use the following link to confirm whether a visa is required:

• Check if you need a UK Visa

Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) 

Some Academic Visitors undertaking research in certain subject areas at postgraduate level or above may require an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate.

Where required, ATAS must be obtained before any research activity commences.

Faculties must consider ATAS requirements at the invitation stage and ensure appropriate checks are completed where relevant.

Further information is available at:

• Academic Technology Approval Scheme
• Check if you need an ATAS certificate

Responsibilities of the hosting Faculty 

Before agreeing to an Academic Visit, Faculties must ensure that the proposed activities fall within those permitted under the UKVI Standard Visitor route and do not constitute employment. They must also consider whether the duration and frequency of visits are appropriate and ensure that any proposed payments or expense arrangements comply with UKVI rules.

Faculties remain responsible for ensuring that the visit continues to align with its approved purpose and does not develop into ongoing duties or employment. 

Where there is any uncertainty, or where a proposed visit falls outside the permitted activities under the UKVI Standard Visitor route, advice must be sought from the People Partnering Team before proceeding.

Payments and expenses 

Academic Visitors are generally not permitted to receive payment for their activities from a UK source. Limited exceptions apply where explicitly permitted under UKVI rules.

The University may reimburse reasonable travel and subsistence expenses, provided these are agreed in advance. All payments and reimbursements must comply with UKVI requirements and University financial procedures.

Invitation letters and documentation

Academic Visitors will normally require a formal invitation letter from the University, confirming: 

• the purpose of the visit 
• the planned activities 
• the duration of the visit 
• whether any expenses or payments will be provided 

Visitors may also be required to provide evidence of their overseas employment or academic status.

An Academic Visitor letter template is available in the downloads section of this page.

Before issuing invitation documentation, Faculties must ensure the proposed visit aligns with permitted activities under the Standard Visitor route. 

Further information

It is the visitor’s responsibility to obtain and maintain the correct immigration permission, comply with visa conditions, and check the latest UKVI guidance before travel. 

The University cannot provide individual immigration advice, and visitors should seek independent advice where necessary. 

UK immigration rules are subject to change. Visitors should always refer to the latest official guidance:

• Visit the UK as a standard visitor
• Immigration rules appendix V: Visitor