This page has been reviewed and verified by Michael Gibbons, UK Solicitor and Regulated Immigration Advisor, to ensure accuracy under current UK immigration policy. Confirm your visa requirements via Our UK Visa Guidance.
In 2025, business professionals and entrepreneurs seeking to visit or manage business interests in the United Kingdom may apply for a UK Business Visa under the Standard Visitor route. This visa is designed for short-term business activities, such as attending meetings, conferences, or negotiations. However, for individuals intending to establish or run a business in the UK, alternative routes like the Innovator Founder Visa or Start-Up Visa are more appropriate.
The length of stay permitted under a UK Business Visa depends on the visa category and purpose. Below is a full overview of how long you can stay in the UK, eligibility requirements, and important steps to ensure compliance with Home Office rules.
How Long Can a UK Business Visa Holder Stay?
The UK Business Visa allows holders to stay in the UK for a maximum of up to six months per visit. It can be issued as a single-entry or multiple-entry visa, depending on your travel history and purpose. During this period, you are permitted to carry out limited business activities such as:
- Attending meetings, seminars, or trade events.
- Negotiating and signing contracts.
- Conducting site visits or promotional activities.
For those seeking a longer-term stay to operate or invest in a UK business, the Innovator Founder Visa offers residence for up to three years, with eligibility for extension or settlement upon meeting investment and performance criteria. Learn more in UK Visas for Investors and Entrepreneurs.
Eligibility Requirements for a UK Business Visa
Applicants must meet the following core eligibility criteria to qualify for a business visa under UK immigration rules:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Intend to visit the UK for short-term business purposes only.
- Have proof of sufficient funds to cover accommodation, travel, and living expenses during the stay.
- Hold a valid passport or travel document.
- Provide evidence of professional or business ties outside the UK to confirm the intention to return home.
Applicants must not engage in paid employment or establish permanent business operations while on a business visitor visa. For routes that allow self-employment or business ownership, see How Do I Get a Self-Employed Visa for the UK?.
Extending or Switching from a Business Visa
You cannot normally extend a Business Visa beyond six months from within the UK. If your purpose of stay changes, you must leave the UK and apply for a different visa category from your home country. Business visitors intending to establish a permanent business presence should apply under the Innovator Founder route before returning to the UK. For application timing and eligibility, see How to Apply for a UK Skilled Worker Visa.
Tips to Strengthen Your UK Business Visa Application
Begin Early
Prepare your application several months before travel. Submitting early ensures enough time to gather supporting evidence and schedule your biometrics appointment. For application centre details, see UK Visa Application Processing Centres 2025.
Provide Strong Supporting Evidence
Include documentation that demonstrates your business background, purpose of visit, and ties to your home country. Financial records, company registration certificates, and letters of invitation from UK counterparts help strengthen your case.
Follow Upload Guidelines
Submit all required documents digitally through the Home Office portal. Ensure files are clear and labelled correctly — see UK Visa Supporting Documents – Digital Upload Guide for submission standards.
Related Guidance
About This Page
Author: UK Visa Applications Editorial Team
Reviewed by: Michael Gibbons, UK Solicitor and Regulated Immigration Advisor
Last Updated: October 2025